If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in a car accident in Hawaii, your life has changed forever. Spinal cord damage is one of the most devastating injuries anyone can experience. When it happens because of another driver’s negligence — speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, or reckless behavior — the tragedy is even deeper, because it could have been prevented.

 

You deserve justice, and you deserve full financial compensation for your losses. That means hiring a lawyer with deep experience handling catastrophic auto accident cases and spinal cord injuries specifically.

 

At the Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we focus exclusively on auto accident injury law in Hawaii. We have helped many clients and families on Oahu and across the islands rebuild their lives after devastating crashes. When a spinal cord injury changes everything, we are here to fight for everything you are owed.

 

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

 

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when trauma damages the spinal cord or surrounding nerves, often resulting in partial or complete loss of movement, sensation, or body function below the injury site. The spinal cord is the body’s main pathway for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body — when it is damaged, the effects can be life-altering.

 

Spinal cord injuries are categorized as:

 

• Complete injuries – Total loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury.

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• Incomplete injuries – Some remaining function or sensation below the injury site.

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• Depending on the location and severity of the damage, a spinal cord injury can cause:

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• Paraplegia (loss of movement and sensation in the lower body)

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• Quadriplegia (loss of movement and sensation in all four limbs)

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• Chronic pain, numbness, or tingling

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• Loss of bladder or bowel control

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• Respiratory complications

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• Emotional and psychological trauma

 

These injuries often require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment. Victims frequently face hundreds of thousands — sometimes millions — of dollars in medical expenses over a lifetime.

 

Auto Accidents: The Leading Cause of Spinal Cord Injuries in Hawaii

 

Nationwide, motor vehicle crashes are among the top causes of spinal cord injuries. In Hawaii, with its busy roads, tourism traffic, and high rates of distracted and impaired driving, serious crashes are unfortunately common.

 

Some of the most frequent causes of spinal cord injuries from car accidents include:

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1. Rear-end collisions at high speed

2. Rollover accidents

3. Head-on crashes

4. T-bone collisions at intersections

5. Motorcycle or moped crashes in Hawaii

6. Pedestrian and bicycle accidents

 

Even a crash that initially seems “minor” can cause serious spinal trauma, particularly to the cervical or lumbar regions of the spine.

 

When these injuries occur, it is critical to have a Hawaii auto accident injury lawyer who understands both the medical and legal complexities of spinal cord cases.

 

The Long-Term Impact of a Spinal Cord Injury

 

A spinal cord injury doesn’t just affect your health — it impacts every area of your life. Victims often face:

• Permanent disability and paralysis

• Ongoing physical therapy and rehabilitation

• Loss of employment or career changes

• Depression, anxiety, and PTSD

• Strain on family relationships

• Financial stress due to medical bills and lost income

• Home modifications, mobility aids, and special equipment

 

The lifetime cost of caring for a spinal cord injury victim can exceed several million dollars. That’s why it is essential to pursue a claim that covers not only your current medical expenses but also your future care needs and loss of earning potential.

 

A skilled Hawaii spinal cord injury lawyer will work with medical experts, rehabilitation specialists, and economists to calculate the full value of your damages — not just what the insurance company wants to pay.

 

Hawaii Auto Accident Laws and Spinal Cord Injuries

 

Hawaii is a no-fault insurance state, meaning that every driver’s insurance initially covers their own injuries through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, regardless of who caused the crash.

 

However, spinal cord injuries almost always exceed the limits of no-fault insurance coverage. In those cases, you are entitled to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver for damages beyond your PIP benefits.

 

Key Legal Points for Hawaii Accident Victims

 

Statute of Limitations: You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Hawaii.

 

Comparative Negligence: If you are partially at fault, you may still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% responsible.

 

Serious Injury Threshold: Because spinal cord injuries are classified as “serious injuries,” they qualify for full tort recovery outside Hawaii’s no-fault limitations.

 

Insurance Coverage: Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may apply if the at-fault driver’s policy is insufficient.

 

An experienced Hawaii serious auto accident injury lawyer like David W. Barlow knows how to navigate these laws to maximize your compensation.

 

Why Choose David W. Barlow as Your Hawaii Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

 

Focused Experience in Auto Accident Cases

 

David W. Barlow focuses exclusively on representing victims of auto accidents — including car, truck, motorcycle, moped, pedestrian, bicycle, and scooter accidents. This specialization gives him deep knowledge of Hawaii’s traffic laws, insurance regulations, and litigation strategies.

 

When you hire Mr. Barlow, you are working with an attorney who devotes 100% of his practice to helping accident victims — not someone who divides time among many unrelated legal areas.

 

Recognized for Excellence

 

David W. Barlow has been recognized by national legal organizations for his skill and dedication to personal injury clients. His experience includes serving as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer in the U.S. Air Force and clerking for a federal judge — a background that provides strong litigation and courtroom insight.

 

No Fees Unless You Win

 

The Law Offices of David W. Barlow handle all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless the firm wins compensation for you.

 

Local Hawaii Representation

 

With offices in Honolulu (Oahu) and Kailua-Kona (Big Island), the firm understands Hawaii’s local roads, drivers, and courts. You’ll have an attorney who knows the community, not a mainland firm unfamiliar with Hawaii’s unique legal and cultural environment.

 

Personalized Legal Attention

 

When you work with David W. Barlow, you get direct communication with your attorney — not a paralegal or call center. Every case is handled personally and with the care it deserves. Catastrophic injury victims need compassion, communication, and commitment — and that’s exactly what this firm provides.

 

The Legal Process for a Spinal Cord Injury Case in Hawaii

 

1. Immediate Steps After the Accident

 

• Seek medical attention immediately.

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• Obtain a police report and document the scene.

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• Gather contact and insurance information from all drivers and witnesses.

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• Avoid speaking to the insurance company before consulting a lawyer.

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• Contact a spinal cord injury lawyer in Hawaii as soon as possible.

 

2. Investigation and Evidence Collection

 

Your attorney will:

 

• Collect all medical records, imaging, and expert opinions.

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• Investigate the crash to establish fault.

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• Work with accident reconstruction experts when needed.

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• Calculate both current and future damages.

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• Consult life-care planners to estimate long-term costs.

 

3. Settlement Negotiation

 

Once the evidence is complete, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. Insurers often offer low settlements early — especially in catastrophic cases — hoping you’ll accept before understanding the true cost of your injury.

 

A strong attorney will not rush the process. Instead, they will build the strongest possible case and only settle when the offer reflects your full lifetime needs.

 

4. Litigation and Trial

 

If the insurance company refuses to pay fairly, your case will proceed to court. David W. Barlow is an experienced trial lawyer who prepares every case as if it will go to trial. This approach often results in stronger settlements — and if necessary, he will fight for your case before a Hawaii jury.

 

5. Resolution and Recovery

 

Once your case is resolved, the firm helps ensure that your compensation is distributed properly and used to secure your long-term medical and financial needs.

 

Types of Compensation Available in Hawaii Spinal Cord Injury Cases

 

A successful spinal cord injury claim can include compensation for:

 

Economic Damages:

 

• Hospitalization and emergency treatment

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• Surgery, rehabilitation, and physical therapy

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• Prescription medication and medical equipmentIn-home nursing care, and attendant services

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• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity

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• Home modifications and adaptive vehicles

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• Transportation and travel for medical care

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• Non-Economic Damages:

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• Physical pain and suffering

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• Emotional distress

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• Loss of enjoyment of life

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• Loss of consortium (impact on family relationships)

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• Permanent disability and disfigurement

 

Punitive Damages:

 

In rare cases where the at-fault party acted with gross negligence or recklessness — such as drunk driving — punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

 

Your lawyer will calculate all of these damages with the help of medical, economic, and vocational experts to ensure you receive the full amount you deserve.

 

The Importance of Expert Testimony in Spinal Cord Cases

 

Because spinal cord injuries are medically complex, expert testimony is crucial. Your attorney may consult with:

 

Neurosurgeons – to explain the nature and severity of the injury

 

Rehabilitation specialists – to outline treatment and recovery needs

 

Life-care planners – to estimate future care costs

 

Economists – to calculate future lost income and inflation adjustments

 

Vocational experts – to assess your ability to work or retrain

 

These experts help your lawyer prove both the short- and long-term effects of your injury, ensuring that insurance companies and juries understand the full scope of your losses.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What if I don’t feel injured immediately after the crash?

 

Symptoms of spinal cord damage may develop gradually. Always seek medical evaluation after any serious collision, even if you feel fine at first. Early documentation strengthens your case.

 

Can I still file a claim if I was partly at fault?

 

Yes. Under Hawaii’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault.

 

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

 

You generally have two years from the date of the accident or injury discovery to file a lawsuit in Hawaii. However, it is best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence.

 

Will I have to go to court?

 

Many cases settle out of court, but your lawyer must always be ready to go to trial if necessary. David W. Barlow prepares every case for both outcomes.

 

How much does it cost to hire a spinal cord injury lawyer?

 

You pay no fees unless your case is won. The firm works on a contingency basis — meaning the attorney’s fee is a percentage of your recovery.

 

Steps to Protect Your Rights After a Spinal Cord Injury

 

• Seek medical attention immediately.

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• Report the crash to law enforcement.

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• Keep copies of all medical bills and treatment records.

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• Take photos of your vehicle, injuries, and the accident scene.

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• Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters before getting legal advice.

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• Contact the Law Offices of David W. Barlow for a free consultation.

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• Follow all medical instructions and attend all appointments.

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• Keep a daily journal of your pain, limitations, and emotional state.

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• Do not post details about your accident on social media.

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• Act quickly — legal deadlines are strict.

 

Why Local Representation Matters in Hawaii

 

Hiring a Hawaii-based serious auto accident injury lawyer offers several advantages:

 

• Knowledge of Hawaii’s traffic patterns, roads, and insurance companies

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• Familiarity with state-specific laws and regulations

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• Access to local medical experts and accident reconstruction professionals

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• Personalized service and in-person communication

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• Deep understanding of the community and local court systems

 

A local attorney like David W. Barlow knows how to effectively advocate for Hawaii residents and visitors who have suffered catastrophic injuries in auto accidents.

 

Building a Secure Future After a Catastrophic Injury

 

A spinal cord injury can turn your world upside down — but with the right legal guidance, you can rebuild.

 

Compensation can help you:

 

• Obtain the best possible medical care

• Modify your home for accessibility

• Replace lost income and secure your family’s financial stability

• Access emotional support and rehabilitation resources

• Restore independence and dignity

 

The Law Offices of David W. Barlow are here to help you pursue these goals with compassion and determination.

 

Why Prompt Action Matters

 

Delaying legal action after a spinal cord injury can weaken your case. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and deadlines can pass. The sooner you contact an experienced Hawaii spinal cord injury lawyer, the stronger your case will be.

 

David W. Barlow and his team will immediately begin protecting your rights, investigating your accident, and building your case for maximum compensation.

 

Take the Next Step Toward Justice

 

If you or someone you love suffered a spinal cord injury in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident anywhere in Hawaii — including Honolulu, Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island — contact the Law Offices of David W. Barlow today.

 

You owe nothing unless we win your case. We handle everything from start to finish so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

 

Call 808-354-0464 for a free consultation

 

Law Offices of David W. Barlow — Hawaii Serious Auto Accident Injury Lawyer

 

No fees unless we win.