Birth Defect Litigation

Parents who discover that their child is born with a defect may be entrusted with costly procedures and requirements that they shouldn't be forced to endure. At LK, our Pittsburgh birth defect lawyers are committed to helping families pursue justice for their children.

We are aware that some of these conditions result from medical negligence, prescription drugs and toxic exposures. Find out more about our firm and contact us for a no-cost consultation with an experienced New York birth defect lawyer today.

Medical Malpractice

If the cause is related to genetics or a lack of care, birth defects can be traumatic and cause a family to be devastated. If a birth defect, or injury was preventable, parents should speak with a birth defect lawyer to determine whether they have a claim against the medical professionals responsible.

Everyone assumes that nurses and doctors know how to treat ailments, respond to emergencies, and manage diseases. However, they are human, and make mistakes, sometimes with tragic consequences. These mistakes can result in congenital disabilities in children, particularly if they are related with the birth of a baby and pregnancy.

Birth defects that are caused by medical negligence typically involve the failure to identify an illness or condition that could have been prevented and treated. These cases are often caused by medications and treatments taken by the mother during pregnancy and in the months leading up to the birth.

Other birth defects can be caused by environmental factors. These could be due to exposure to chemicals and environmental factors as well as the use of certain medications or medicines or eating unhealthy or unclean food. These issues are the subject of numerous birth defect lawsuits brought against pharmaceutical companies, doctors and hospitals. These cases are based on the principle that manufacturers, pharmacists and doctors are required to inform pregnant women about the dangers associated with certain medications and drugs they take.

Prescription Drugs

If a child suffers from a birth defect which can be traced back to medication taken by the mother during pregnancy, a lawsuit may be a possibility. While the majority of birth defects are genetic, they could be caused by poor prenatal treatment or exposure to harmful chemicals.

A lawyer can help determine which medical bills are acceptable for reimbursement, such as medical procedures, doctor's appointments, rehabilitation services, and assistive devices. Depending on the degree of the birth defect parents may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering they endured as well.

The time of pregnancy is very complicated and there are a variety of things that could be wrong. Some of these events are preventable. Certain birth defects are the result of a doctor prescribing a drug that increased the chance of the baby developing a birth defect, or a mishap in the delivery. If you suspect that your child's birth defects are due to medical negligence, speak to an attorney as soon as you can.

Teratogens are prescription drugs that can be dangerous that can cause birth defects to newborns or fetuses. Contact a Boston attorney for dangerous drugs right away in the event that you suspect your child's birth defect is due exposure to prescription medications. A skilled legal team can help you determine who could be responsible and help you get the compensation that you deserve.

Drug Manufacturers

It may be possible to sue a manufacturer of drugs in the event that a fetus or mother suffers from birth defects which affect the body's functions and appearance. Drug makers have a duty to ensure that their products are tested properly and warn pregnant women of the risks. The drug Zofran was advertised to pregnant women, even though the manufacturer was aware that it could result in a serious birth defects. In these instances, the drug company is accountable under strict product liability law.

You should speak with an experienced attorney immediately when you suspect that the birth defect of your child was the result of medical malpractice during the birth or delivery. If a parent delays in filing a legal claim they could be ineligible to file claims because the statute of limitation is over.

Birth defects can be caused by genetics, environmental causes and certain medications a mother takes during pregnancy. Fortunately, many of these problems are preventable. In certain cases a serious birth defect can dramatically impact a child's lifespan and it is crucial that parents understand their legal options. If you have questions about a birth defect lawsuit, speak with a knowledgeable Boston injury lawyer today. You can also submit a contact form to have an attorney contact you regarding your case.

Employers

A variety of causes can result in birth defects. Certain birth defects are genetic. Others are caused by environmental factors, like the mother's exposure of prescription and over-the counter drugs (teratogens) or the use of chemicals in beauty salons and paint factories. Birth defects can cause disabilities and require thousands of dollars in medical care.

Medical malpractice is still possible, even though modern technology has greatly reduced the chance of certain medical procedures. If your child sustained an injury during birth as a result of a doctor's negligence prior to or during labor and delivery or during labor, you may be able to file a claim for damages.

If your child is suffering from a mental impairment severe enough to hinder him or her from working a regular job, the child could be eligible for government disability benefits. It is important to consult with a top lawyer regarding your situation and the options available for obtaining the highest amount of settlement.

Your family could be entitled to compensation in addition to medical expenses and loss of income for pain and suffering. This may include punitive damages and other damages related the birth defect or injury. Our lawyers are aware the difficulty of these cases, and are determined to pursue justice for your family. Contact us today for a free consultation.