Cerebral palsy is a lifelong medical condition that requires expensive care and ongoing support for you and your child. A healthcare provider’s negligence during pregnancy can cause the onset of cerebral palsy, making them liable for the damages you incur. An experienced Bala Cynwyd cerebral palsy lawyer at Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., can pursue a medical malpractice claim on your behalf, hold negligent doctors accountable, and recover financial compensation for your family.
We offer a free consultation with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to review your case.
Examples of Medical Malpractice Related to Cerebral Palsy
Doctors play a vital role in preventing birth injuries such as cerebral palsy, which can result from damage to the developing brain. Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor fails to meet the standard of care expected of a reasonable physician. The doctor may commit medical malpractice in one or more of the following ways during pregnancy or childbirth:
- Failing to monitor for signs of fetal distress
- Neglecting maternal health conditions, including infections or preeclampsia
- Failing to schedule a cesarean section promptly
- Using improper delivery techniques that cause brain trauma
- Delaying resuscitation efforts after childbirth
- Failing to clear your newborn’s airway
Discovering that medical malpractice contributed to the onset of cerebral palsy is where the experience and knowledge of an experienced Bala Cynwyd attorney can help. Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., can review your medical file in detail to identify any negligent acts or omissions. The firm also works with experienced medical consultants to further validate that medical malpractice occurred.
Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim for Damages
Cerebral palsy can have a wide range of effects on your child’s health and needs. Examples of these effects can include challenges with motor skills, learning disabilities, and other developmental delays. Your child may require expensive medical care, therapy, and other forms of support throughout their life.
Filing a medical malpractice claim with a Bala Cynwyd lawyer can help hold negligent doctors accountable and secure compensation for your child’s future cerebral palsy care. Examples of these damages may include:
- Loss of income
- Medical expenses
- Equipment or home modifications costs
- Therapy expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality and enjoyment of life
Estimating the true extent of these damages can be difficult because of the uncertainty around how your child’s cerebral palsy may impact their life in the future. Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., can help assess damages and seek full compensation either at trial or through a well-negotiated settlement.
What Is the Deadline To File a Medical Malpractice Claim?
There is a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including those related to medical malpractice. However, different rules apply when the injured patient is a child.
Under Pennsylvania law, when medical malpractice injures a minor at birth, the statute of limitations is tolled (paused) until the child turns 18 years old. In most birth injury cases, including cerebral palsy claims, this means a lawsuit may be filed any time before the child’s 20th birthday.
That said, parents’ claims for medical expenses incurred before the child turns 18 may be subject to a different deadline. Because these timelines can be complex and fact-specific, it is important to speak with a Bala Cynwyd lawyer as soon as possible after a cerebral palsy diagnosis.
Contact a Bala Cynwyd Cerebral Palsy Attorney Today To Discuss Your Case
Protect your right to financial compensation if a doctor’s negligence during pregnancy or delivery harmed your child. A Bala Cynwyd cerebral palsy lawyer at Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., can help you navigate every stage of the legal process with compassion and confidence.
Schedule a free case consultation with a compassionate attorney today.