Spine and Back Injury Lawyers in Queens
Herniated discs, nerve damage and spinal cord injuries from accidents across New York. Free consultation, and no fee unless we win.
The degeneration argument
Almost every adult spine shows some degenerative change on imaging, and insurers rely on this heavily: the scan shows wear, therefore the injury is age rather than accident. It is the standard defence in spinal cases.
Answering it means showing the difference between a pre-existing condition and one that was asymptomatic until the accident. New York law recognises that aggravating a pre-existing condition is a compensable injury — the fact that something was there before does not defeat a claim if it was not causing problems until you were hurt.
That is built from records: what you could do before, when symptoms began, and consistent treatment afterwards. Long gaps in treatment are the single most damaging thing to a spinal claim, and are often read as evidence of recovery rather than as the cost or inconvenience they usually reflect.
How Davidov & Cohen can help
We take the administrative weight off you and put the case on a footing where the other side has a reason to deal with it properly.
We answer the degeneration defence
By documenting function before and after, and establishing when symptoms actually began. Aggravation of a pre-existing condition is compensable in New York.
We document the full injury
We work with your treating doctors, and specialists where a case calls for one, so the record reflects what the injury actually costs you.
We keep the treatment record continuous
Gaps in treatment are read as recovery. We help make sure the record reflects what is really happening.
We prepare it as a trial case
Most claims settle. They settle for more when the file is built as though it will be tried, and the other side knows it.
Spinal injuries we handle
- Herniated and bulging discs
- Spinal cord injury and paralysis
- Compression fractures
- Nerve root impingement
- Sciatica and radiculopathy
- Whiplash and cervical strain
- Facet joint injuries
- Failed back surgery
- Injuries requiring fusion
- Chronic pain conditions
- Workplace lifting injuries
- Falls from height
How long you have to file
In New York the general deadline for a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the injury. Several exceptions are much shorter — a claim against the City, the MTA or another public body usually requires a notice of claim within 90 days, and wrongful death has its own two-year limit. Because the short deadlines are the easy ones to miss, it is worth a call early even if you have not decided whether to bring a claim.
Common questions
The insurer says my MRI shows old degeneration.
That is the standard argument and it is answerable. What matters is whether the condition was causing symptoms before the accident. Aggravating an asymptomatic pre-existing condition is compensable in New York.
I stopped treatment because I could not afford it.
That is common and understandable, but a gap will be used against you. Tell us early — there are often ways to keep treatment going while a claim is pending.
Do I need surgery for the claim to be worth pursuing?
No. Many significant spinal claims involve no surgery at all. What matters is the effect on your function and daily life, properly documented.
The insurer already offered me money. Should I take it?
Speak to a lawyer first. Early offers usually arrive before the full extent of an injury is known, and accepting one normally means signing a release that ends the claim — including for treatment you have not had yet.
What does it cost to hire you?
Nothing up front. We work on a contingency fee, so our fee comes out of a recovery and there is no fee if there is no recovery. The consultation is free.
Tell Us What Happened
Free consultation. No fee unless we win. We'll get back to you the same day.
Millions Recovered for Injured New Yorkers
At Davidov & Cohen Law, we are proud to have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients who have suffered injuries due to the negligence of others. Our dedicated legal team has successfully handled a wide range of personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, construction site injuries, and more.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that an injury can take, which is why we fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation our clients deserve. Through aggressive negotiation and skilled litigation, we hold negligent parties accountable and help our clients rebuild their lives.
Every case we take on is pursued with determination and personalized attention. When you choose Davidov & Cohen Law, you are choosing experienced advocates committed to achieving justice for you and your family.
What Our Clients Say
After losing hope, I had the good fortune of getting in touch with David & Ben. They treated me as family with genuine personal care. Their knowledge & expertise exceeded my expectations.
This firm handled my case so quick and efficiently. They were able to get me the max settlement in only 3 months after my accident.
Excellent attorneys. Transparent and professional. Got my settlement for full policy within 4 months of my accident. Thank you David. Highly recommend!!!