Birmingham Birth Injury & Trauma Attorney
For many parents, having a baby is one of the happiest times in their lives. While most labors and deliveries go without a hitch, sometimes the unexpected happens. The baby suffers distress. The doctor injures the baby while using forceps. The umbilical cord nearly chokes the baby and causes him to lose oxygen.
So much can happen while giving birth and if the doctor fails to monitor the labor and delivery, the baby can end up in a dangerous situation. However, improper and negligent care during the labor and delivery process can be prevented. If your doctor caused your baby to suffer injuries at birth, contact experienced Birmingham birth injury attorney who can help you with your case.
Types of Birth Injuries
A baby can suffer various types of injuries and trauma during the birthing process, such as the following:
- Cerebral palsy. The most common motor disability during childhood, cerebral palsy affects a person’s ability to walk, move, and maintain balance.
- Erb’s palsy. Also known as brachial plexus palsy, Erb’s palsy is caused by traumatic force downward on the upper arm and shoulder. It causes loss of motion and muscle weakness.
- Brain hemorrhage. Also known as a brain bleed, a brain hemorrhage can be caused by a lack of oxygen or severe pressure to the head. It can range from mild to severe.
- Brain damage. A baby can suffer permanent brain damage due to a lack of oxygen. It may be caused by strangulation or umbilical cord compression.
- Skull fractures. Incorrect use of instruments during delivery can cause the baby’s skull to suffer damage.
- Nerve damage. Babies are prone to nerve damage in the shoulders and neck due to pressure applied during the delivery process. In some cases, the nerves are torn, causing long-term damage.
Who is Liable?
In most cases, doctors and nurses are liable for a birth injury. In some cases, though, multiple parties can be at fault. In a birth injury lawsuit, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and medical device manufacturers could be sued, in addition to medical staff. A skilled personal injury lawyer can investigate your case.
It’s important to know the difference between birth injuries and birth defects. Birth defects occur while the baby is in the mother’s womb. These defects can come in all forms and can be caused by an infection, a lack of nutrients, chemical exposure, and genetics. A doctor generally would not be held liable for a birth defect.
Contact a Birmingham Birth Injury/Birth Trauma Attorney Today
Birth injuries and trauma do happen on occasion and while some incidents are minor and heal quickly, others cause lasting harm. If your baby was a victim, make sure you take the proper steps.
The Birmingham personal injury lawyers at Goldasich, Vick & Fulk can help you obtain compensation for birth injuries and trauma. We also can assist in determining liability so you can get justice. To schedule a consultation with our office, call (205) 731-2566.
