A Dedicated Team Of Erb’s Palsy Lawyers Serving Grand Rapids
Erb’s palsy is a type of birth injury that affects the nerves responsible for arm and hand movement. It can cause paralysis of the affected arm, leading to long-term physical challenges for the child. Although people with Erb’s palsy live long and productive lives, they often endure difficulties that would not have occurred if their doctor had used more care.
Does your child have Erb’s palsy because of a medical provider’s negligence? At Mabbitt Bhimani Law, we know what you are going through. We have devoted our careers to helping the survivors of medical malpractice and their loved ones. We care passionately about protecting your rights and recovering maximum compensation for your damages.
We have backgrounds in insurance defense, which means that we can anticipate how hospitals and insurance companies think.
How An Erb’s Palsy Birth Injury Can Change A Child’s Life
Erb’s palsy is a condition that results from damage to the brachial plexus nerves during childbirth. There are three categories of Erb’s palsy:
- Neuropraxia: A mild form of nerve damage in the arm or hand.
- Axonotmesis: Damage to a peripheral nerve.
- Neurotmesis: The most severe form of Erb’s palsy. It occurs when both the nerve and the sheath of the nerve receive damage.
Several incidents can cause or contribute to Erb’s palsy, such as:
- Shoulder dystocia: When the baby’s shoulder gets caught behind the mother’s pelvis during delivery.
- Excessive pulling: Improper handling of the baby during birth.
- Use of forceps or vacuum extractors: Tools that can cause nerve damage if used incorrectly.
- Breech birth: When the baby comes out of the womb feet-first, increasing the risk of nerve injury.
- Large birth weight: Babies with a higher birth weight are at greater risk for brachial plexus injuries.
Tragically, physician negligence is a common factor behind Erb’s palsy birth injuries. Doctors typically diagnose Erb’s palsy through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an MRI or ultrasound. This helps them assess the extent of nerve damage.
We Help You Understand What To Expect
Filing an Erb’s palsy claim is often a long and difficult journey. We help you learn about the steps involved so that you feel more prepared. This is a broad overview of the key process:
- Medical record review: Obtain and review medical records to identify any deviations from the standard of care.
- Expert testimony: Consult medical experts to provide testimony supporting your Erb’s palsy claim.
- Filing the claim: Submit a formal complaint against the responsible parties.
- Discovery process: Exchange information and evidence with the opposing party, including depositions and document requests.
- Settlement negotiations: Your Erb’s palsy lawyer will attempt to reach a fair Erb’s palsy settlement out of court.
- Trial preparation: If the parties do not reach a settlement, prepare for trial by gathering additional evidence and witnesses.
- Trial: Your Erb’s palsy lawyer will present your case in court, aiming for a favorable verdict.
- Appeal: If necessary, you can appeal the court’s decision.
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing an Erb’s palsy claim is two years from the date that you discover your child’s birth injury. If you do not file within this deadline, you forfeit your right to seek compensation. As soon as your child is diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, you need to explore your legal options.
Our Caring And Holistic Approach
We understand the emotional and financial toll that an Erb’s palsy or another birth injury can take on you, your child, and your family. That is why we take a different approach from most law firms. We take a caring approach, prioritizing the overall well-being of our clients. We balance this empathy with thorough investigation and strategic legal action.
Although these cases are complex, we use our extensive experience and strategic thinking to achieve favorable outcomes. We are committed to providing personalized attention and support throughout the legal process, helping you make it through this challenging time to the other side.
You Are Not Alone – Reach Out To An Erb’s Palsy Attorney
If your child has a diagnosis of Erb’s palsy and you suspect medical negligence is the cause, it is time to get in touch. Contact us at Mabbitt Bhimani Law for a free consultation. Please schedule yours today by calling 616-326-1111 or by using our online contact form.