Birth asphyxia is a serious medical condition that occurs when a newborn does not receive enough oxygen before, during, or immediately after birth. Oxygen deprivation at birth can lead to lifelong complications, including brain damage, developmental delays, and cerebral palsy.
If medical negligence contributed to your child’s asphyxia, a Detroit birth asphyxia lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, long-term care, and other damages.
With decades of experience and $750 million recovered for families nationwide, our Michigan birth asphyxia lawyers at Birth Injury Lawyers Group are dedicated to securing you compensation. If your child has suffered from birth asphyxia due to medical errors, legal action may help ensure they receive the care and support they need.
What Causes Birth Asphyxia?
Birth asphyxia occurs when a baby does not receive adequate oxygen before or during delivery. While some cases are unavoidable, medical professionals are responsible for monitoring fetal health and preventing oxygen deprivation when possible.
Common causes of birth asphyxia our Michigan birth injury lawyers see include:
- Umbilical cord complications: A compressed, prolapsed, or wrapped umbilical cord can cut off oxygen supply.
- Placental issues: Placental abruption or insufficiency can reduce the transfer of oxygen to the baby.
- Prolonged labor: Extended labor increases the risk of oxygen deprivation, particularly if the baby becomes stuck in the birth canal.
- Maternal infections: Some infections, such as chorioamnionitis, can affect oxygen delivery to the baby.
- Delayed C-section: If a doctor fails to perform an emergency C-section when fetal distress is evident, the baby may suffer from asphyxia.
Medical professionals must take appropriate steps to monitor and respond to signs of oxygen deprivation. If negligence occurs, birth injury lawyers may be able to hold them liable for resulting injuries.
"If your child was born with a birth injury, or cerebral palsy, we can help."
Signs and Symptoms of Birth Asphyxia
The effects of birth asphyxia can range from mild to severe, depending on how long the baby was deprived of oxygen. Common symptoms include:
- Low Apgar scores: A low score at one and five minutes after birth may indicate oxygen deprivation.
- Difficulty breathing: Weak, irregular, or absent breathing is a critical sign of birth asphyxia.
- Weak muscle tone: Babies with asphyxia may appear floppy or have difficulty moving.
- Seizures: Oxygen deprivation can lead to neurological damage, resulting in seizures shortly after birth.
- Bluish or pale skin tone: A lack of oxygen can cause discoloration in the baby’s skin.
If these symptoms are present, immediate medical intervention is necessary to minimize long-term damage. In some cases, doctors fail to act quickly enough, leading to permanent injury.
Detroit Birth Asphyxia Lawyer Near Me 1-800-222-9529
Complications Associated With Birth Asphyxia
The severity of birth asphyxia-related complications depends on how long the baby was without oxygen and the effectiveness of medical intervention. Some of the most common complications include:
- Hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE): A type of brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation, leading to cognitive and motor impairments.
- Cerebral palsy: A neurological disorder affecting movement, coordination, and muscle tone.
- Intellectual disabilities: Reduced oxygen supply can cause developmental delays and learning difficulties.
- Organ damage: Severe asphyxia can lead to dysfunction in the heart, kidneys, and lungs.
- Speech and communication disorders: Some children with birth asphyxia struggle with speech and language development.
Many of these conditions require ongoing medical care, therapy, and specialized education, leading to significant financial and emotional burdens for families.
"We know first-hand what you are going through."
How a Detroit Birth Asphyxia Lawyer Can Help
Families dealing with the consequences of birth asphyxia often face overwhelming medical costs and emotional distress. A Detroit birth asphyxia attorney can help by:
Investigating the Cause of the Birth Injury
Medical records, fetal monitoring data, and expert analysis can help determine whether medical negligence played a role in your child’s injury. If a healthcare provider failed to follow standard procedures, they may be held accountable.
Identifying Liable Parties
Birth asphyxia cases can involve multiple responsible parties, including:
- Obstetricians and delivery doctors
- Nurses and hospital staff
- Anesthesiologists
- Hospitals or medical facilities
Determining liability ensures your case includes all potential sources of compensation.
Seeking Maximum Compensation
A successful birth injury lawsuit can help cover:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Assistive devices and home modifications
- Special education and caregiving costs
- Pain and suffering
Negotiating Settlements or Taking Legal Action
Most birth injury cases settle out of court, but if necessary, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial. We have a history of record-setting verdicts and settlements nationwide and will fight to secure the best possible outcome for your family.
"Our Birth Injury Lawyers have recovered over $750+ Million on behalf of our clients."
Understanding Michigan’s Birth Injury Laws and Deadlines
Michigan law limits the time families have to file a medical malpractice claim. Generally, birth injury lawsuits must be filed within two years from the date of injury. However, exceptions exist:
- For minors: A lawsuit may be filed until the child’s 10th birthday, but waiting too long can make it harder to collect evidence.
- For parents’ claims: If parents seek compensation for medical expenses or other costs, they typically have two years to file.
Consulting a birth asphyxia lawyer in Detroit as soon as possible helps ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your legal rights.
Choosing the Right Legal Representation for Your Birth Injury Case
Birth asphyxia cases are highly complex, requiring an in-depth understanding of medical and legal issues. Working with a law firm experienced in birth injury litigation can make all the difference in securing the compensation your family needs.
An experienced attorney will:
- Consult medical experts to evaluate whether negligence occurred
- Build a strong case to demonstrate liability and damages
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies and hospitals
- Fight for fair compensation in court if necessary
Holding negligent medical professionals accountable not only provides financial relief but also helps prevent similar mistakes in the future.
Speak With a Detroit Birth Asphyxia Attorney Today
If your child suffered from birth asphyxia due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Birth injuries can have lasting consequences, and pursuing a legal claim may help ensure your child receives the care and resources they need.
A Detroit birth asphyxia lawyer from Birth Injury Lawyers Group can review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the claims process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
"We are committed to helping families who have suffered medical negligence."