Causes of Birth Injuries
Birth injuries can occur for many reasons. Some common causes of birth injuries include:
Birth Complications
Complications during childbirth can lead to birth injuries. This can include issues with the mother's health, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, or issues with the baby, such as a large birth weight or a breech position.
Improper Use of Extraction Devices
Extraction devices, such as forceps or vacuum extractors, are sometimes used to assist with delivery. However, if these devices are used improperly, they can cause serious injuries to the baby.
Failure to Monitor
Doctors and medical staff must monitor both the mother and the baby during labor and delivery. Failure to do so can lead to serious complications and injuries.
Improper Medication Dosage
Medications used during childbirth, such as Pitocin, must be administered carefully to avoid complications. If these medications are not given in the correct dosage, they can cause serious injuries to the mother and the baby.
Signs Your Newborn Could be Injured
It’s important to be aware of the signs of a birth injury. Some common signs that your newborn could be injured include:
- Difficulty with breathing or feeding
- Seizures or tremors
- Lack of movement or muscle tone
- Excessive crying or irritability
- Abnormal head shape or size
Who’s At Fault for a Birth Injury?
Determining who is at fault for a birth injury can be complicated. In some cases, the injury may be the result of a medical error or negligence on the part of the doctor, nurse, or other medical staff. In other cases, the injury may be the result of a pre-existing condition or complication that could not have been prevented. Your attorney can review your case and help you determine who may be held responsible for your child's injuries.
How to File a Birth Injury Lawsuit
If you believe that your child has suffered a birth injury as a result of medical malpractice or negligence, it is important to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney. Your attorney can help you file a birth injury lawsuit and guide you through the legal process.
The first step in filing a birth injury lawsuit is to contact an attorney who specializes in this area. Your attorney will review your case and gather evidence to support your claim. This may include medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Once your attorney has gathered evidence to support your claim, they will file a complaint in court. The complaint will outline the details of your case, including the injuries your child has suffered and the damages you are seeking. The defendant will then have an opportunity to respond to the complaint and present their own evidence.
There’s a chance your case could go to trial. If it does, a jury will hear the evidence presented by both sides and make a determination on whether the defendant is liable for the injuries your child has suffered. If the defendant is found liable, the court will determine the damages to be awarded.