Because paraplegia interrupts sensory messages to the brain, paraplegics cannot “feel” their affected body parts, and are generally insensitive to pain or heat. Paraplegia can jeopardize the victim’s health and safety because of this inability to differentiate pain. Paraplegia can also cause phantom pain and heat sensations because of damaged nerves. Like all paralyses, paraplegia significantly impacts the patient’s quality of life. In addition to mobility, paraplegia affects sexual drive, digestive capabilities, bladder control and shortened life expectancy.

Paraplegia is often caused by major trauma such as a car accident. Often, vehicles such as SUVs are prone to roll over and do not have adequate roof structure. When an SUV or truck rolls over on its roof, the roof can crush or cave in if it does not have adequate roll protection. Many spinal cord injuries occur in this way, and steps could be taken to reduce spinal cord injuries including paraplegia. Auto manufacturers should take steps to ensure that vehicles are safe and have the best airbags, seatbelts to prevent ejection, sound vehicle design and roof stability.