Every parent eagerly anticipates the joy of welcoming their newborn into the world. Sometimes this moment can be clouded by birth injuries, potentially devastating both the child and their parents.
In most cases, injuries ranging from cerebral palsy to Erb’s palsy result from medical negligence during childbirth. These injuries lead to families facing an overwhelming emotional and financial burden. In such cases, it’s crucial for you to understand your rights and options as an aggrieved parent.
To seek justice and secure the financial support needed to provide the best possible care for your child, you can file a birth injury case with the help of experienced professionals.
Types of Birth Injuries and Their Possible Causes
There are many types of birth injuries that can result from negligence. Common among them include, but are not limited to:
- Cerebral Palsy: It affects movement and muscle coordination. It is often caused by oxygen deprivation or brain damage during childbirth.
- Erb’s Palsy: Weakness or paralysis in the arm. It is associated with an injury to the nerves within the shoulder during delivery. It is often caused by excessive force or improper handling.
- Brachial Plexus Injury: It is the damage to the nerves controlling an arm and hand movement. It commonly results from difficult deliveries where the baby’s shoulder gets stuck.
- Facial Paralysis: Temporary or permanent paralysis of facial muscles. It is usually caused by pressure on the baby’s face during delivery.
- Fractures: These are mostly broken bones, such as collarbones or arms. They may occur during delivery, especially in cases of prolonged labor or improper use of delivery instruments.
Impacts of Birth Injuries on the Parent and the Child
Birth injuries can have profound impacts on both you as a parent and your child. As a parent, you may experience emotional distress, guilt, and financial strain while coping with your child’s condition.
The stress of caregiving and navigating medical treatments can be overwhelming. For the child, the consequences may include physical limitations, developmental delays, and potential lifelong challenges. These injuries can affect their quality of life and future opportunities.
Seeking support from healthcare professionals, therapists, and legal advisors can help you address the immediate and long-term needs of both you and your child.
Determining Fault in Birth Injury Cases
In birth injury cases, determining fault is critical. You must gather medical records and consult experts to assess if negligence occurred. To perfect this, you may need the services of an experienced birth injury attorney from a reputable law firm.
Your lawyer will investigate the circumstances of the birth and any medical errors that may have been realized. This involves reviewing procedures, actions, and decisions made by healthcare providers. If negligence is found, your lawyer will build a case to hold the responsible party accountable. It is essential to act swiftly, as statutes of limitations apply.
The statute of limitations for birth injuries in most states is 2 years. With a skilled legal team, you can pursue justice and compensation for your child’s injuries, ensuring you receive the care and support your child deserves.
Conclusion
The journey of navigating birth injuries is undoubtedly challenging, as it has an impact on both the parent and the child. From emotional distress to financial strain, the effects can be overwhelming.
Understanding the types and causes of these injuries is crucial for recognizing signs and seeking appropriate assistance. Determining fault in such cases requires a thorough investigation and expert consultation.
While the road ahead may seem daunting, remember that support and resources are available to help you every step of the way. By staying informed and seeking assistance when needed, you can provide the best possible care for your child and work towards securing the justice and support your child deserves.