When we look at data provided by the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), we can see that spinal cord injuries can be incredibly costly. In just the first year of medical care alone, a victim could face expenses ranging from $368,000 to more than $1.1 million. The data also shows that every following year of treatment until the end of a person's life could add additional costs ranging from $44,000 to more than $200,000.
However, these medical costs do not factor in the overall expenses that a spinal cord injury victim and their family will face. Other costs include the following:
The cost to modify a vehicle or home to aid with mobility
The cost to travel to and from medical care visits
Lost income if a victim cannot work
Lost income of a family member if they have to become a caregiver