Erb’s Palsy Lawyers in Illinois: Helping You Understand Your Rights And Legal Options
Erb’s palsy is a condition caused by damage to the brachial plexus, which controls muscles in the shoulder, arm and hand. This injury often occurs during birth and can result in weakness or paralysis of the affected arm. The severity of the condition can vary, as some infants only experience mild cases that last a few months. In more severe cases, Erb’s palsy can be a lifelong condition.
Understanding the causes of Erb’s palsy is crucial for parents and guardians in determining whether their doctor or another medical professional was responsible for hurting their newborn. At Keefe, Keefe & Unsell, P.C., our Erb’s palsy lawyers are here to help you determine the cause of your child’s condition and seek the compensation you need to treat it.
How Medical Negligence Can Cause Erb’s Palsy
Here are a few examples of how mistakes by health care professionals can result in Erb’s palsy:
- Doctors applying excessive force to the baby’s head or neck during the birthing process
- Obstetricians misusing forceps or vacuum extractors during delivery
- Medical professionals mishandling conditions like shoulder dystocia or breech delivery
- Medical professionals failing to monitor infant distress, increased heartrate and other issues in a timely manner
- Medical professionals failing to account for risk factors that could make the birthing process more difficult
If you believe that a doctor, a health care worker or another maternal care professional is responsible for your child’s Erb’s palsy, get in touch with us today by calling 618-403-7152. Our Erb’s palsy lawyers can help you determine negligence and find an appropriate solution to help you move forward.
The Long-Term Effects Erb’s Palsy Can Have On Your Child
Depending on the severity of the condition, your child can end up having issues with:
- Muscle weakness/paralysis
- Limited range of motion or function with their limbs
- Abnormal muscle development
- Balance, coordination and other fine motor skills
- Chronic pain
- Muscle contractures
- Scoliosis (although this is can be rare)
On top of the list above, the mental strain of coping with and treating Erb’s Palsy can leave your child with self-esteem issues as well.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Erb’s Palsy Claims?
In Illinois, families generally have eight years from the date of the injury, or two years from when you knew about or should have known about the injury, to pursue an Erb’s palsy claim. In some cases, you may have up to the child’s 22nd birthday to file a lawsuit. If you have additional questions about how long you have to pursue an Erb’s palsy claim, contact us to talk to an Erb’s palsy lawyer. Be aware that you don’t have unlimited time to file, so call right away.
Work With Attorneys Who Have The Right Experience
Erb’s palsy, like many birth injuries, can be complex to identify and difficult to determine responsibility. That’s why working with an Erb’s palsy lawyer like those at our firm is so important. We have been handling complex birth injury cases across southern Illinois since 1992 and have built a strong reputation and track record for addressing birth injuries within the southern Illinois community. We also recognize how emotionally difficult this time can be. Anytime you have questions or concerns about your case, we will address them as soon as possible. Additionally, you can count on our team to remain by your side throughout every step of your case.
Erb’s Palsy Lawyers Who Are Ready To Fight For You
If you believe medical negligence contributed to your child’s Erb’s palsy, we encourage you to reach out to us for a free consultation. Our compassionate team is here to listen to your story, provide legal guidance and help you pursue the compensation your family deserves.
Get in touch with an Erb’s palsy lawyer today by calling 618-403-7152 or by emailing us via our contact form.