It’s devastating for any Illinois parent to learn that their child has suffered a birth injury. Under some circumstances, parents can file a medical malpractice lawsuit.
What is a birth injury?
A birth injury can develop when complications occur during labor or childbirth. Depending on the circumstances, it can lead to serious, permanent disabilities or temporary problems that can clear up on their own over time. Birth injuries often occur when the mother’s labor is prolonged and the doctor provides improper treatment or fails to provide treatment timely. Children can also develop birth injuries when they suffer from oxygen deprivation or when assistive devices like forceps are improperly used.
Should you file a medical malpractice lawsuit after a birth injury?
Many situations that cause birth injuries result from medical errors made by the doctor, nurse or another medical professional. When a baby suffers from severe disabilities or injuries, the parents often need to spend significant money for their child’s lifetime to properly care for them. For example, children who develop cerebral palsy require a lifetime of care and ongoing medical treatment. This can quickly add up, which is why it’s wise to hold the doctor or other medical professional liable with a medical malpractice lawsuit.
If your medical malpractice lawsuit is successful, you might be able to recover compensation for the following damages:
- Medical expenses and ongoing medical treatment
- Prescription medications
- Assistive devices and mobility aids
- Surgery
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Special education costs
- Transportation methods and modifications
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
These damages can be costly, but if your claim is successful, you might have a much easier time financially to care for your child.