Birth injuries can be devastating for families. When a newborn suffers due to medical negligence, parents feel helpless and overwhelmed. A birth injury lawyer in Philadelphia can help you understand your legal rights and fight for the compensation your child deserves.
Many birth injuries happen due to doctor errors, delayed C-sections, improper use of forceps, or failure to monitor fetal distress. If medical professionals did not provide proper care, they should be held accountable. A skilled lawyer will investigate your case, gather medical records, and work with experts to prove negligence.
Why You Need a Birth Injury Lawyer in Philadelphia
Common Types of Birth Injuries
Some birth injuries heal with time, but others lead to lifelong disabilities. The most common birth injuries include:
- Cerebral Palsy – A condition that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture due to brain damage at birth.
- Brachial Plexus Injuries (Erb’s Palsy) – Nerve damage that affects arm movement, often caused by excessive force during delivery.
- Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) – Brain damage due to lack of oxygen, leading to developmental delays.
- Fractures and Nerve Damage – Broken bones or facial nerve injuries caused by improper delivery techniques.
A birth injury lawyer will analyze medical reports to determine if negligence played a role in your child’s injury. If so, you may be able to recover medical costs, therapy expenses, and pain and suffering damages.
How a Philadelphia Birth Injury Lawyer Can Help
A birth injury case requires strong evidence and expert testimony. A lawyer specializing in medical malpractice will:
- Review hospital records and doctor notes to identify mistakes.
- Consult medical experts to prove negligence and the extent of the injury.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
- Take your case to court if a settlement is not offered.
Many families hesitate to file a lawsuit, but medical expenses for birth injuries can be lifelong. A successful claim can ensure your child gets the best possible care and support.
Statute of Limitations for Birth Injury Claims in Philadelphia
Pennsylvania law sets a time limit for filing a birth injury lawsuit. Generally, parents have two years from the date of injury to file a claim. However, since birth injuries affect children, the law allows lawsuits to be filed until the child turns 18 years old.
It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to gather evidence before it is lost. Waiting too long can make it harder to prove your case.
Choosing the Right Birth Injury Lawyer in Philadelphia
Not all lawyers handle birth injury cases. You need an attorney with:
- Experience in medical malpractice law and a history of winning cases.
- A strong network of medical experts to testify in your favor.
- Compassion and dedication to fight for your child’s future.
A good lawyer will offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. Many work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my child’s birth injury was caused by medical negligence?
If doctors failed to monitor distress, used excessive force, or made mistakes during delivery, negligence may have occurred. A lawyer can review medical records to determine if you have a case.
2. How much compensation can I receive for a birth injury claim?
Compensation depends on medical costs, long-term care needs, and pain and suffering. Some cases result in millions of dollars in settlements or verdicts.
3. How long does a birth injury lawsuit take?
Birth injury cases can take months or years, depending on complexity. Your lawyer will guide you through the process and negotiate for a fair settlement.
4. What if I cannot afford a lawyer?
Most birth injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. You don’t have to worry about upfront costs.
5. Can I file a claim if my child’s birth injury happened years ago?
Yes, Pennsylvania law allows birth injury claims to be filed until the child turns 18 years old. However, acting sooner improves your chances of success.