What Is a Birth Injury?
A birth injury is harm suffered by a newborn during labor or delivery, often due to complications or medical errors. This is distinct from congenital conditions, which develop before labor.
When Is It Medical Negligence?
Not all injuries are the result of negligence. However, medical negligence may be present when healthcare professionals fail to meet accepted standards of care. Common indicators include:
- Failure to order or perform a timely C-section.
- Ignoring or mismanaging signs of fetal distress.
- Improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction.
- Errors in monitoring mother or baby during delivery.
Common Causes of Birth Injuries
Some of the conditions and causes frequently associated with birth injuries include:
- Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE).
- Shoulder dystocia.
- Cerebral palsy related to oxygen deprivation.
- Brachial plexus injuries (including Erb’s palsy).
Impact on Families
Families facing birth injuries often carry an immense burden. The impact can include:
- Ongoing medical treatment and hospitalizations.
- Specialized therapies and educational support.
- The need for adaptive equipment or home modifications.
- Significant financial strain over time.
How SGT Investigates These Cases
Our team takes a careful and professional approach to evaluating potential claims. Steps typically include:
- Reviewing complete medical records.
- Consulting with independent medical experts.
- Assessing causation and damages.
- Outlining legal options tailored to your family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What types of compensation may be available?
A: Depending on the circumstances, families may seek damages for medical expenses, long-term care, and pain and suffering.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim in Connecticut?
A: Birth injury claims are subject to strict statutes of limitation. It is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Q: Do I need to pay upfront fees?
A: No. Like most medical malpractice cases, we handle birth injury claims on a contingency basis.
Choosing a Connecticut Birth Injury Lawyer
If your newborn is suffering from medical problems such as cerebral palsy or other birth injuries that you suspect were caused by medical negligence during delivery, seeking experienced legal representation is crucial. Selecting the right Connecticut birth injury lawyer is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your family's future. Review our article on Choosing a Connecticut Birth Injury Lawyer.
Next Steps
If your child has suffered a serious birth injury, Silver Golub & Teitell may be able to help. We handle these sensitive cases with the care and confidentiality they require. Call us today at (203) 325-4491 or send an email to info@sgtlaw.com to schedule your consultation.
