A spinal cord injury (SCI) is often permanent and life altering. A person may have some level of recovery, but many people with SCIs will never see complete recovery, even with medical attention.
As such, home modifications are sometimes necessary to allow someone with an SCI to live independently and comfortably. Below are a few key areas to consider.
Access ramps
If someone who has suffered an SCI needs to use a wheelchair, they will likely need access ramps at their home. Not only do these make the home accessible in a general sense, but they also make it much safer because the person could exit quickly in an emergency, such as a house fire.
Door widths
Door widths need to be sufficient to accommodate a wheelchair. This could mean overhauling entry doors and exit doors, along with many access doors within the home.
Light switch height
Light switches may need to be lowered and outlets may need to be raised. This allows a person who uses a wheelchair to use the home’s electrical systems.
Countertop and cabinet height
Similarly, a home kitchen or dining area may need to be entirely renovated so that countertops, cabinets and appliances are all at a height where they can be used. This could result in tens of thousands of dollars in renovations just so the home can offer basic necessities and functionality. The same is true for bathrooms.
Seeking financial compensation
These are just four areas to keep in mind, but you can already see how expensive these changes may become. If someone else’s negligence led to your spinal cord injury, they may be responsible for those costs, and you need to know what legal options you have to seek financial compensation.