Bringing a new life into the world is a momentous occasion filled with anticipation and joy. However, there are instances when the birth process can lead to unexpected complications, resulting in birth injuries. These injuries can have a profound impact on both the child and their family, often leading to physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Below we explore some common causes of birth injuries, the legal implications involved, and the importance of seeking appropriate legal representation.
Medical Negligence
One of the primary causes of birth injuries is medical negligence, which occurs when healthcare providers fail to uphold the standard of care expected in similar circumstances. Medical negligence during childbirth can take various forms, including:
- Inadequate monitoring of the mother and baby,
- Delayed or improper treatment, and
- Medication errors.
Improper Use of Assisted Delivery Techniques
Assisted delivery techniques, such as forceps or vacuum extraction, are sometimes necessary to facilitate a difficult delivery. However, improper use of these techniques can cause birth injuries, such as cranial trauma. Incorrect use of forceps or vacuum extractors can lead to head injuries, skull fractures, or bleeding in the baby’s brain.
Failure to Perform Timely Cesarean Section (C-Section)
In certain situations, a C-section may be necessary to ensure the safety of the mother and baby. Failure to perform a timely C-section when there are indications of fetal distress or other complications can lead to birth injuries, including hypoxia/Anoxia, brain damage, and other developmental issues.
Inadequate Prenatal Care
The health and well-being of both the mother and baby are heavily dependent on proper prenatal care. Inadequate prenatal care can result in undetected maternal health issues, fetal abnormalities, or other complications that increase the risk of birth injuries.
Maternal Health Conditions
Certain maternal health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or infections, can increase the risk of birth injuries if not properly managed during pregnancy and childbirth.
Legal Recourse
Families affected by birth injuries often face significant emotional, physical, and financial burdens. When birth injuries result from medical negligence or improper practices, families may have legal recourse to seek compensation. This compensation my include payment for:
- Medical bills,
- Lost wages,
- Future lost earning capacity,
- Out of pocket expenses, and
- Pain and suffering.
Contact Otorowski Morrow & Golden, PLLC
Please know that our firm is here to help if you were injured due to a medical provider’s malpractice. Otorowski Morrow & Golden, PLLC provides free consultations to all our potential clients. The attorneys at our law firm also have over 120 years of combined experience representing injured parties in medical malpractice cases. They never back down to insurers and fight for their clients’ interests every step of the way. Do yourself a favor and contact them now for the quality legal representation you deserve.