401 W. Linton Blvd. Delray Beach, FL 33444

Delray Beach Birth Injury Attorney

Have You Been Injured? Contact Porcaro Law Group Today for a Free Case Review!

Delray BeachBirth Injury Attorney

LAW FIRM FOR Birth Injuries

Welcoming a new child to the world is a wonderful experience and it should be the happiest moment in a couple’s relationship. Unfortunately, medical accidents and avoidable birth defects do occur from time to time. This misfortune may be the result of negligence, improper medical care, and/or prenatal misdiagnosis. If you feel that your newborn baby has experienced an injury during the birthing process or is living with an abnormality due to negligent actions or the result of prescribed medications, the Florida statute of limitations allow victims a maximum of two years to file a lawsuit. That being said, it’s important to collect as much information and evidence as you can during this period to prove your birth injury case in a court of law.

Birth InjuryCauses of Birth Defects

Birth defects can arise from a variety of factors, including both natural causes and the use of certain medications during pregnancy. While some birth defects occur spontaneously and are unrelated to any external influence, it is important to recognize that certain prescribed medications can contribute to the development of abnormalities in newborns. Birthing abnormalities may be a side effect caused by antidepressants, blood thinners, hormone drugs, sedatives, acne medications, anti-inflammatory medicine, diabetes medication, or drugs that reduce folic acid levels.

There are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRI medications, like Lexapro, Zoloft, Symbyax, Fluvoxamine, Prozac, and Paxil that are prescribed to female patients suffering from depression and anxiety. Birth side-effects may result from these certain medications. However, it is important to note that the risk varies depending on the specific medication and individual circumstances. It is crucial for expectant mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to assess the potential benefits and risks of continuing or discontinuing medication during pregnancy, taking into account the severity of the underlying condition and alternative treatment options.

It’s of the utmost importance to check with your doctor if you are pregnant and taking any medications, and it’s wise to research the risks of continuing certain prescriptions while pregnant. The CDC claims that 1 in 28 babies born in Florida have a major birth defect, and that some cases are preventable. By considering all available information and individual circumstances, expectant mothers can make informed decisions in collaboration with their healthcare team to ensure the well-being of both themselves and their unborn child.

Birth InjuryCase Examples

The causes of birth injuries can be multifaceted and complex. Some injuries are the result of inherent risk factors or unavoidable complications that arise during the birthing process. These include premature birth, abnormal fetal positioning, umbilical cord prolapse or compression, and maternal health conditions such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.

Some causes of birth injury that our personal injury attorneys may be able to help with include:

  • Neural tube defects
  • Spina Bifida
  • Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension
  • Limb abnormalities
  • Autism
  • Cleft lip or cleft palate
  • Heart defects
  • Craniosynostosis
  • Bacterial Meningitis
  • Cephalopelvic Disproportion
  • Delay Cesarean Section
  • Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring Errors
  • Forceps Delivery
  • Genetic Testing Error
  • Group-B Streptococcus (GBS)
  • Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
  • Meconium Aspiration
  • Nuchal-Cord
  • Pitocin Errors
  • Placental Abruption
  • Preeclampsia Complications HELLP Syndrome 
  • Prolonged Labor
  • Rh Incompatibility
  • Uterine Rupture
  • Vacuum Assisted Delivery Error
  • Types of Injury
  • Caput Succedaneum
  • Cephalohematoma
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Death of a Mother
  • Erb’s Palsy
  • Fetal Stroke

Birth InjuryPotential Damages

Birth injuries can have a profound impact on families, affecting every aspect of their lives. The toll that birth injuries take on families is not limited to the physical and emotional challenges faced by the child but extends to the parents, siblings, and the entire support network. Feelings of grief, guilt, anger, frustration, and sadness are common as they navigate the challenges and uncertainties of their child’s condition. Coping with these emotions while striving to provide the best possible care for their child can be overwhelming for parents and siblings alike.

For these reasons, seeking damages is crucial. The costs associated with medical treatments, therapies, assistive devices, and ongoing care can quickly accumulate. Families may face significant out-of-pocket expenses, which can lead to financial strain and impact their ability to provide for the child’s needs as well as the well-being of other family members. 

The damages recovered by our clients in birth injury cases include:

 

  • Medical Expenses: Birth injuries often entail substantial medical expenses. This includes costs associated with initial emergency care, diagnostic tests, surgeries, consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and various medical procedures or interventions. These expenses can quickly accumulate, particularly if ongoing medical care and monitoring are required.

 

  • Hospitalizations: Birth injuries may necessitate extended hospital stays, especially in cases where intensive care, surgical interventions, or specialized treatments are needed. Hospitalization costs can be significant and cover various aspects such as room charges, medical procedures, nursing care, medications, and other ancillary services provided by the healthcare facility.

 

  • Special Equipment: Depending on the nature and severity of the birth injury, specialized equipment may be required to support the child’s mobility, communication, and overall well-being. This can include assistive devices like wheelchairs, braces, hearing aids, communication devices, adaptive technology, and home modifications to accommodate the child’s unique needs. The expenses associated with acquiring and maintaining this equipment can place a substantial financial burden on families.

 

  • Custodial Care: Birth injuries may necessitate custodial care, involving assistance with daily activities, personal hygiene, feeding, and mobility. Families may need to hire caregivers, therapists, or nursing professionals to provide support and ensure the child’s safety and well-being. The cost of custodial care can vary depending on the level of assistance required and the frequency of care needed.

 

  • Travel Expenses: Families may incur significant travel expenses when seeking specialized medical care, consultations with specialists, or accessing treatment facilities located far from their home. These expenses may include transportation costs, accommodation, meals, and other incidental expenses associated with travel.

 

  • Medications: Birth injuries may require the child to take medications on an ongoing basis to manage symptoms, control pain, prevent complications, or treat associated medical conditions. The cost of medications can add up over time, particularly if the child requires multiple prescriptions or specialized medications that are not fully covered by insurance.

 

The financial impact of birth injuries can be overwhelming, making it crucial for families to seek compensation to alleviate the financial strain and secure the necessary resources to provide the best possible care and support for their child’s well-being. Consulting with a birth injury attorney can help families understand their rights, explore potential avenues for compensation, and seek the financial assistance needed to navigate the challenges associated with birth injuries.

Birth InjuryStatute of Limitations

If you suspect that your newborn baby has sustained an injury during the birthing process or is living with an abnormality as a result of negligent actions or the use of prescribed medications, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the legal aspects involved. In the state of Florida, there is a statute of limitations that establishes a maximum time frame of two years to file a lawsuit for birth injuries. This limited window of time highlights the importance of acting promptly and diligently in gathering relevant information and evidence to substantiate your birth injury case in a court of law.

While the two-year period may appear sufficiently lengthy, it’s advisable to take prompt action. Begin by gathering comprehensive information to bolster your claim, including medical records, diagnostic reports, and documentation pertaining to the pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Next, contact a Florida birth injury attorney to assist with your case. They possess the expertise and knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of the legal system, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best possible chance at a successful claim.

Porcaro Law Group takes immediate action, allowing you and your family to concentrate on the recovery process. With our experienced attorneys handling your birth injury case, you can feel assured that you have a compassionate and well-informed advocate by your side.

Birth InjuryFAQS

When should you contact a birth injury lawyer?

You should consider contacting a birth injury lawyer if you suspect that your child has suffered harm or injury due to medical negligence or errors during the birth process. It’s essential to reach out to a birth injury lawyer if you believe that the injury could have been prevented or was a result of medical malpractice.

Why do you need a birth injury attorney?

Birth injury cases can be legally intricate, involving medical records, expert testimonies, and complex laws. An attorney can navigate these complexities on your behalf and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, and emotional distress.

What is considered a birth injury?

A birth injury refers to any physical or neurological injury sustained by an infant during the process of childbirth. These injuries can occur before, during, or immediately after delivery.

Are birth injuries permanent?

Birth injuries can vary widely in terms of their severity and potential long-term impact. While some birth injuries may cause temporary effects that can be addressed and resolved with medical intervention, others can result in permanent disabilities or ongoing health challenges. The outcome largely depends on the type and extent of the injury, as well as the quality and timeliness of medical care provided.

Which conditions are types of birth injuries?

Several conditions are considered types of birth injuries. These conditions can result from complications during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, and they can have varying degrees of severity. Some common types of birth injuries include cerebral palsy, fractures, intracranial hemorrhage, and infections.

How long do most personal injury cases take?

In general, personal injury cases can take anywhere from a few months to several years to reach a resolution.

Can you sue for fetal laceration?

Yes, it is possible to sue for fetal laceration if you believe that the injury occurred due to medical negligence or malpractice during the course of childbirth. Fetal lacerations, also known as birth-related injuries, are cuts or tears that occur on a newborn’s body, often during a complicated or difficult delivery. These injuries can result from improper use of medical instruments, mishandling during delivery, or other medical errors.

What is the difference between a birth defect and a birth injury?

A birth defect is a structural or functional abnormality present at birth. Birth defects develop during pregnancy when the baby is forming in the womb. A birth injury, on the other hand, is harm or damage that occurs to a baby during the process of labor and delivery. Birth injuries are often the result of medical negligence, mistakes, or complications that arise during childbirth.

Birth InjuryExperienced Florida Birth Injury Lawyer in Delray Beach & Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach

No one deserves to suffer, no matter the circumstance. Our birth injury attorneys hold vast knowledge of Florida’s medical laws and will go up against top medical lawyers for you. If you feel that you or your loved one was harmed medically during the birthing process or from supplements or medicine that you were prescribed, our birth injury attorneys will work tirelessly to recover your settlement and provide you with the support you need during this challenging time.

Our birth injury attorneys help families in Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Deerfield Beach, West Palm Beach, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and the South Florida area. For more information or to schedule your free consultation, please contact us today or give us a call at (561) 450-9355. We will evaluate your case for free and discuss your filing options.

You can learn more about birth injuries in Florida by visiting the Florida Birth Defects Registry.

Tragedy strikes us when we least expect it. The wrongful death of a loved one leaves families and friends emotionally distraught with an overwhelming amount of grief and heartache. The personal injury attorneys at Porcaro Law stand by your side. If you’re dealing with a loss due to someone else’s negligence, contact our experienced lawyers today. If another party is liable, we’ll fight to make sure your family’s voice is heard and you’re fully compensated for any damages caused to your family.
Between family vacations, barbeques, and the relentless Florida heat, the pool becomes a sanctuary for many people needing a little R&R. Swimming pool accidents take place most frequently among children ages 1 to 4, who have the highest risk of drowning due to their lack of experience in the water and need for supervision. That said, any person is at risk of an unintentional swimming pool accident if negligence or recklessness occurs. If you or a loved one have been injured in a swimming and/or pool accident, contact our Delray Beach personal injury attorneys to discuss your case for free.
Sports are supposed to be fun, but injuries can feel like the end of that enjoyment. Knowledgeable legal representation is the key to getting the settlement you and your family deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a sports accident in Delray Beach, the personal injury lawyers at Porcaro Law Group want to help you. Our lawyers work with children, adults, amateur and professional athletes to recover damages for any injuries sustained during a sporting event.
If you’ve been injured while on someone else’s property, it’s important to contact an experienced attorney immediately to help determine if you have a personal injury claim. Premises liability law in Florida holds property owner’s responsible for the injuries a person sustains while on their land. Our Delray Beach personal injury attorneys have recovered millions for injured victims in premises liability cases, including slip and falls, elevator accidents, and negligent security.
The sunshine state holds a reputation for housing elderly retirees searching for rest and warmth. Unfortunately, the high-population of some nursing homes sometimes results in patient neglect or wrongful death. Our personal injury attorneys defend the vulnerable and elderly. If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered from nursing home abuse or neglect, don’t hesitate to contact us right away. Our lawyers have helped recover damages for bone fractures, malnutrition, dehydration, unsanitary conditions, emotional abuse, and other types of neglect.
Medical malpractice is more common than you may think in the state of Florida. If you have been the patient of a medical provider who ended up causing more harm to your health than good, you should contact our personal injury law office to discuss your case. Our lawyers go above and beyond for our clients who have suffered due to failures within our healthcare system. We’ve helped victims recover damages for misdiagnosis, surgical errors, birth-related injuries, failure to treat, patient neglect, nursing home abuse, medication errors, and other types of medical malpractice.

Birth InjuryBLOG POSTS

No one ever hopes to lose a family member or loved one. However, tragedy can strike unexpectedly. Everyday, people lose their life to incidents like car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, falls, and animal attacks. These types of incidents wherein another person’s negligence led to someone’s death can be classified under ‘wrongful death’. This means that the victim’s death was unexpected and preventable, and means that their loved ones can file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you or someone…
No one ever hopes to lose a family member or loved one. However, tragedy can strike unexpectedly. Everyday, people lose their life to incidents like car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, falls, and animal attacks. These types of incidents wherein another person’s negligence led to someone’s death can be classified under ‘wrongful death’. This means that the victim’s death was unexpected and preventable, and means that their loved ones can file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you or someone…
The moment you step foot into a hospital, treatment center or doctor’s office, you should feel a sense of relief. As a patient, you put your trust in doctors to perform safe and ethical medical treatments. From the initial consultation to the actual procedure, patients rely on the expertise and altruistism of doctors to keep them safe and protected. With that said, your sense of safety can easily be jeopardized through negligence and medical…
The moment you step foot into a hospital, treatment center or doctor’s office, you should feel a sense of relief. As a patient, you put your trust in doctors to perform safe and ethical medical treatments. From the initial consultation to the actual procedure, patients rely on the expertise and altruistism of doctors to keep them safe and protected. With that said, your sense of safety can easily be jeopardized through negligence and medical…

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