Illinois Shoulder Dystocia Birth Injury Lawyers

Shoulder dystocia happens when a baby’s shoulders become stuck during delivery. This can cause serious birth injuries such as brachial plexus damage, fractures, Erb’s palsy or oxygen deprivation.

The last thing you want is to have your newborn suffer from the consequences of a medical professional’s mistakes. Treating injuries due to poorly-managed shoulder dystocia can be particularly expensive, especially if the damage is severe or permanent. Our attorneys at Keefe, Keefe & Unsell, P.C., can help you fight to cover the cost of treating shoulder dystocia injuries and hold the doctors and medical professionals accountable.

How Medical Negligence Can Result In Shoulder Dystocia

Medical professionals can wind up responsible for injuries from shoulder dystocia by:

• Failing to consider the risk factors when delivering a baby through a narrow pelvis
• Using excessive force or risky techniques when delivering the baby
• Incorrectly positioning the baby while using forceps or vacuum extractors
• Not performing the appropriate safety protocols should an error occur during the birthing process
• Failing to call for backup when medical emergencies arise during the birthing process
• Not anticipating risk factors before birth, like the size of the baby or any potential emergencies that could come up

If you have questions or concerns about your specific situation, call our Belleville office at 618-403-7152.

The Long-Term Effects Of Shoulder Dystocia On Your Child

Depending on their circumstances, the condition can end up leaving them with:

• Permanent nerve damage
• Developmental delays
• Brain damage due to oxygen deprivation

If these long-term damages are severe, they can often require extensive medical treatment, surgery or other forms of intervention, all of which can be particularly costly.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Shoulder Dystocia Cases?

In Illinois, if you are the parent, you typically have eight years from the injury date to pursue a shoulder dystocia claim. If you are the child who was injured, you may file a claim up to your 22nd birthday. If your child develops a permanent disability from shoulder dystocia, the statute of limitations may be extended. Be sure to contact a lawyer right away, however, as it may be harder to find the evidence needed for your shoulder dystocia claim the longer you wait.

Work With Our Experienced Shoulder Dystocia Birth Injury Lawyers Today

We have helped families across southern Illinois pursue legal claims for shoulder dystocia injuries and other birth injuries since 1992. Our extensive experience and strong track record set us apart. We understand that each case differs, so we tailor our strategy to meet the unique needs of the people we serve. Our goal is to help you hold the people responsible for your child’s shoulder dystocia injuries accountable and to help you pursue the damages you need to cover the costs of treating the condition.

​Contact us for a free consultation using our contact form or call 618-403-7152.