Common Birth Injuries & What You Can Do If Your Child Was Injured

Having a baby is a joyous and exciting experience, but it can also be a time of worry and fear. While most births are successful and without incident, there are times when a baby can suffer an injury during or shortly after birth. It is important to understand the types of birth injuries.

What Are Common Birth Injuries?

Birth injuries can range from minor to severe, and can include bruising, broken bones, or nerve damage. Some of the most common birth injuries include:

Cerebral palsy: Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that can affect a baby’s coordination, posture, and muscle tone. It can be caused by oxygen deprivation during delivery.
Erb’s palsy: Erb’s palsy is caused by damage to the brachial plexus, which is a network of nerves that run from the neck to the shoulder. It can cause weakness or paralysis in the arms or hands.
Facial paralysis: Facial paralysis can occur if the baby’s face or head is stretched or compressed during delivery. It can cause temporary or permanent paralysis on one side of the face.
Fractures: Babies can suffer fractures during difficult deliveries. Fractures can occur in the clavicle, humerus, or skull.
Brain injuries: Brain injuries can occur when the baby is deprived of oxygen during delivery. This can cause long-term developmental delays or disabilities.

How to Handle Birth Injuries

If you suspect that your baby has suffered a birth injury, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor can diagnose the injury and provide treatment. If you believe that the birth injury was caused by medical negligence, speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Butwinick Injury Law in Maple Grove, MN, we understand the complex laws surrounding birth injuries and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. More importantly, we can help find you the right medical care.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Birth Injury Cases?

In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for a birth injury claim is typically four years from the date of the injury or discovery of the injury. An attorney can help you determine how the statute of limitations applies in your specific case. Call us to discuss this.

Seek Answers & Accountability

If you suspect that your child has suffered a birth injury due to medical negligence, it is important to speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer right away to understand your legal rights and options. Butwinick Injury Law stands ready to help you find answers and hold any at-fault parties accountable for what your child has experienced.