When an infant suffers a serious injury at birth, it can be an extremely agonizing and traumatic experience for the whole family. A birth injury could lead to permanent medical conditions, developmental issues, expensive medical bills, and limited opportunities into adulthood. Children suffering from birth injuries could require continuous medical care and special accommodations. If you believe that your child has a birth injury, here are some common questions about these cases.
What Causes a Birth Injury?
Certain conditions can not be prevented. However, the majority of birth injuries are a direct result of negligence. Medical professionals are responsible for properly monitoring and treating mothers and babies during childbirth. Failure to properly monitor the mother or child’s condition can lead to permanent damage. During delivery itself, many things could go wrong that may lead to a birth injury, such as failing to order a C-section, improper use of birth-assisting tools, or failing to recognize fetal distress.
What are the Types of Birth Injuries?
Several types of birth injuries can affect a child and their family long-term. Some common types of birth injuries include:
- Brain damage due to lack of oxygen
- Cerebral palsy
- Cystic fibrosis
- Shoulder dystocia
- Brachial plexus injuries
Are Birth Injuries Preventable?
By nature, many birth injuries are preventable. A good portion of all birth injuries results from miscommunication between medical staff and overall negligence. Other causes of preventable birth injuries include:
- Misdiagnosis of fetal distress
- Medication errors
- Improper use of forceps
- Delayed cesarean sections
- Umbilical cord problems
Who is Liable for Birth Injuries?
There are several individuals that can be held liable in a birth injury case. Put simply, any person or facility who participates in the baby’s medical care during labor and delivery may be held responsible if they fail to provide an acceptable level of care. This includes doctors, nurses, technicians, and obstetricians. Often, you may not know who made the mistake that led to your child’s birth injury. This is why it is essential to have an experienced birth injury attorney who will thoroughly investigate your case to determine what occurred.
When Should I Pursue a Case?
If you suspect that your child has suffered a birth injury, you must speak with a qualified attorney as soon as possible. You not only have to worry about the statute of limitations, but it’s also essential to gather evidence and interview witnesses before too much time passes. This will maximize your chances of obtaining the outcome and compensation you deserve.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.