Birth Injury Lawsuit Settlements: When Tragedy Leads to Compensation
Birth injuries are a devastating tragedy for families. Not only do they cause physical and emotional harm to the child, but they can also lead to a lifetime of medical expenses and lost earning potential. In some cases, families may be able to seek compensation for these damages through a birth injury lawsuit.
What is a birth injury?
A birth injury is any injury that a baby suffers before, during, or after childbirth. These injuries can range from minor to severe, and can have a lifelong impact on the child’s health and development. Some of the most common types of birth injuries include:
- Cerebral palsy
- Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
- Erb’s palsy
- Brachial plexus injury
- Fractures
- Brain damage
- Spinal cord injuries
What causes birth injuries?
There are many different factors that can cause birth injuries. Some of the most common causes include:
- Medical negligence
- Oxygen deprivation
- Difficult deliveries
- Infections
- Genetic conditions
- Birth defects
What are the damages in a birth injury lawsuit?
If a family wins a birth injury lawsuit, they may be awarded compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of earning potential
- Lifetime care costs
How much are birth injury settlements worth?
The amount of a birth injury settlement can vary widely depending on the severity of the child’s injuries, the cost of their medical care, and the strength of the case. However, some birth injury settlements have been worth millions of dollars.
What are the risks of filing a birth injury lawsuit?
Birth injury lawsuits can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to speak with an experienced attorney to understand the risks and benefits of filing a lawsuit. Some of the risks of filing a lawsuit include:
- The lawsuit may not be successful.
- The lawsuit may take years to resolve.
- The cost of litigation can be high.
Making the decision to file a lawsuit
The decision of whether or not to file a birth injury lawsuit is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. Families should weigh the risks and benefits of filing a lawsuit carefully before making a decision.
If you are considering filing a birth injury lawsuit, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal options and make the best decision for your family.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- The March of Dimes
- The Cerebral Palsy Foundation
