Birth Defect Litigation

Parents who find out their child has a birth defect could be confronted with expensive procedures and other requirements they shouldn't have to deal. Our Pittsburgh birth defect lawyers are committed to helping families obtain justice for their children.

We know that a few of these conditions result from medical negligence, prescription medications and exposure to toxic substances. Contact us today to receive a free consultation from an experienced New York birth defects lawyer.

Medical Malpractice

Birth defects can be devastating to families, regardless of whether they are caused by negligence or genetics. When a birth defect or injury could have been prevented, parents should seek out a birth defect lawyer to determine whether they have a claim against the responsible medical practitioners.

Everyone believes that doctors and nurses are trained to treat illnesses, handle emergencies and treat conditions. They are human beings and are prone to making mistakes. Sometimes, these mistakes have disastrous consequences. When those mistakes are related to pregnancy and birth, they can result in congenital disabilities that dramatically alter the life of a child.

Birth defect cases that are based on medical negligence often involve the failure to identify an illness or condition which could have been prevented and treated. The majority of these cases are caused by drugs or treatments the mother used during pregnancy and in the weeks and months prior to delivery.

Other types of birth defects may be caused by environmental causes. These can be caused by exposure to environmental chemicals and the use of certain medications or medicines as well as the consumption of poor-quality or contaminated foods. These are the subject of numerous birth defect lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies as well as hospitals, doctors and other medical institutions. These cases are based upon the principle that pharmacists, manufacturers and physicians have a responsibility to inform pregnant women of the dangers associated with certain drugs and medications they are taking.

Prescription Drugs

If a child suffers from an anomaly in the birth that is traced back to medications taken by the mother during pregnancy, a lawsuit may be a possibility. While the majority of birth defects are inherited, they may be caused by poor prenatal treatment or exposure to harmful chemicals.

A lawyer can help you determine the medical bills that are able to be compensated for, such as procedures at the hospital, doctor's appointments rehabilitation, services for rehabilitation and assistive devices. Based on the severity of the birth defect, parents may be entitled to damages for suffering and pain.

Pregnancy is a challenging time and there are a variety of things that can be wrong. Some of these events can be avoided. Certain birth defects could be caused due to a doctor prescribing a medication which increase the chances of the baby developing a defect or a mistake that is made during the birth process. If you believe that your child's birth defect is the result of medical malpractice, you should contact an attorney immediately.

Teratogens are a class of prescription drugs that could cause birth defects to newborns or fetuses. Contact a Boston attorney for dangerous drugs right away when you suspect that the birth defect of your child is due to exposure to prescription medications. An experienced legal team can help you determine who might be responsible and ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve.

Drug Manufacturers

It may be possible to sue a manufacturer of drugs when a pregnant woman or fetus suffers from birth defects which affect the body's functions and appearance. Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to test their products thoroughly and inform pregnant women of the risks. The drug Zofran, for example, was marketed to pregnant women even when the manufacturer knew it could cause serious birth defects. In these cases drug companies are held accountable under strict laws on product liability.

It is crucial to seek an appointment with a seasoned attorney whenever you suspect that the birth defect of your child was the result of medical negligence during pregnancy or delivery. If a parent puts off taking legal action, they may be disqualified from filing a claim because the statute of limitation has run out.

Birth defects can be a result of genetics, environmental factors and certain medications taken by a pregnant mother. Many of these causes are, however, easily prevented. In certain instances, severe birth defects can alter a child's life span. It is essential for parents to know their legal options. If you have any questions about a birth defect lawsuit, contact a knowledgeable Boston injury lawyer today. You can also complete a contact request for an attorney to reach you regarding your case.

Employers

A range of factors can lead to a birth defect. Certain birth defects are genetic. Others are caused by environmental factors, for example, the mother's exposure to prescription and over-the counter drugs (teratogens) or the use of chemicals in beauty salons and paint factories. In some instances birth defects result in disability, and require an entire lifetime of costly medical care and other expenses.

Although modern technology has greatly reduced the risk of certain medical procedures, medical malpractice can still occur. If your child suffered a birth injury as the result of a negligent doctor prior to or during labor and delivery, you may be entitled to claim damages.

If your child suffers from an impairment to their mental health that is enough to keep him or her from working at a regular job, the child may be entitled to government disability benefits. It is important to consult an experienced lawyer about your case and alternatives to obtain the highest settlement possible.

Your family may be entitled to compensation in addition to medical expenses and lost income due to pain and suffering. This could include punitive damages and other damages that are a result of the birth defect or injury. Our lawyers are aware the complex nature of these cases and are committed to pursuing justice for your family. Contact us for a free consultation.