Families are left with many questions when a joyous occasion turns into a tragedy. Birth injuries, although rare, can cause lifelong consequences for both the child and their family. Finding a compassionate and experienced birth injury lawyer in Philadelphia is crucial when navigating the complex legal and emotional journey ahead.
Understanding Birth Injuries through These Numbers
The statistics are alarming. In the United States, approximately 7 out of every 1,000 babies are born with some form of birth injury, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many of these injuries could have been prevented with adequate medical care. Legal action may be an essential part of the healing process for families dealing with such a loss.
Each year, about 20,000 medical malpractice lawsuits are filed across the country. Many of these involve birth injuries, and for good reason—the average payout for medical malpractice involving newborns is over $1 million. However, settlements vary widely, as injuries can range from mild to permanently disabling.
Where Things Go Wrong
Birth injuries can occur for many reasons, from physical trauma during delivery to poor medical decision-making. Below are some of the most common causes of birth injuries:
- Head and Scalp Injuries: Scalp injuries are the most frequent, making up 80% of all birth traumas. These occur during the birthing process, often due to forceps or vacuum extraction.
- Clavicle (Collarbone) Fractures: This type of fracture happens in 0.2% to 4.5% of deliveries, typically during difficult births where the baby’s shoulders are impacted.
- Brachial Plexus Injuries: These injuries can lead to lifelong mobility issues, as they involve nerve damage caused by shoulder dystocia during birth.
- Intracranial Hemorrhage: Severe cases of birth trauma can result in bleeding in the brain, leading to permanent disabilities or even death.
The statistics surrounding birth traumas are hard to ignore:
- Scalp injuries have increased from 19.87 to 26.46 per 1,000 hospital births over recent years.
- Major birth trauma, fortunately, has decreased, with fewer clavicular fractures, brachial plexus injuries, and intracranial hemorrhages now being reported.
Why You Need a Birth Injury Lawyer in Philadelphia
These figures show the importance of seeking legal help when faced with a birth injury. A trustworthy birth injury lawyer in Philadelphia can guide families through the legal process, helping them understand their rights and potential compensation. But, even more importantly, they provide emotional support during one of the most difficult times a family can experience.
When considering whether to contact a lawyer, families often wonder if their situation warrants legal action. If your child has suffered any form of birth injury due to negligence or medical malpractice, it’s essential to explore your options. Legal claims can cover various medical costs, rehabilitation, and long-term care, offering some financial relief to families already dealing with an immense emotional burden.
How a Birth Injury Lawyer in Philadelphia Can Help
A compassionate and skilled lawyer will:
- Evaluate Your Case: Assess the full extent of the injury and the medical treatment received.
- Guide You Through the Legal Process: This includes filing the lawsuit, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies.
- Seek Fair Compensation: Ensuring that families are awarded the financial support they need to care for their child.
Are these numbers and reasons enough for you to seek the support of a reliable birth injury lawyer in Philadelphia? They just might be.
While this blog provides general information, it should serve as a guide to help families understand their legal options. If you are in Philadelphia and facing this tragic situation, consider reaching out to their team at Bosworth Law. They’re ready to help—call them at 267-928-4183.
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