What Is Brachial Plexus, And How Is It Related To Birth Injuries?

When an unexpected birth injury overshadows the joy of welcoming a new life, parents often find themselves in a whirlwind of emotions and questions. If you’re grappling with a brachial plexus injury in your newborn, you’re not alone. This article aims to shed light on this condition and guide you through your legal options in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Raynes & Lawn Trial Lawyers has decades of experience guiding clients through birth injury cases. Our talented and dedicated attorneys can give you personalized and strategic attention. Call our offices today at 1-800-535-1797for your free consultation.

What is Brachial Plexus and How is it Related to Birth Injuries?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that sends signals from your spine to your shoulder, arm, and hand. During a difficult childbirth, these nerves can be stretched, compressed, or torn, leading to a brachial plexus injury. This can result in weakness, loss of feeling, or even paralysis in the affected arm.

Tip: Understanding the anatomy involved can help you better communicate with medical professionals and potential legal counsel.

When Might You Need a Brachial Plexus Injury Lawyer?

If your child has suffered a brachial plexus injury during birth, you may have grounds for legal action. A brachial plexus injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex waters of medical malpractice law and fight for the compensation your family deserves.

Tip: Document everything related to your child’s injury, including medical records, photographs, and a journal of your experiences. This information can be invaluable to your legal case.

Types of Brachial Plexus Injuries in Newborns

Brachial plexus injuries can range from mild to severe. The most common types include:

• Erb’s palsy (affecting the upper arm)

• Klumpke’s palsy (affecting the hand and forearm)

• Total brachial plexus palsy (affecting the entire arm)

Tip: Understanding the specific type of injury your child has can help you and your brachial plexus attorney 

Legal Rights and Solutions for Brachial Plexus Injuries

As a parent, you have the right to seek compensation if your child’s brachial plexus injury was caused by medical negligence. This could include situations where:

• The medical team failed to identify risk factors for a difficult delivery

• Excessive force was used during delivery

• A C-section was not performed when necessary

Tip: Consult with a birth injury lawyer to understand the specific laws and statutes of limitations in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The Role of a Brachial Plexus Attorney

A skilled brachial plexus attorney can be your advocate in this challenging time. They can:

• Investigate the circumstances of your child’s birth

• Gather and analyze medical records

• Consult with medical experts

• Negotiate with insurance companies

• Represent you in court if necessary

Tip: Look for a lawyer with specific experience in brachial plexus and birth injury cases for the best possible representation.

The Timeline of a Brachial Plexus Injury Case

Resolving a brachial plexus injury case can be a lengthy process. Here’s a general list of matters to be addressed:

• Initial consultation with a brachial plexus injury lawyer

• Investigation and gathering of evidence

• Filing of the lawsuit

• Discovery phase

• Negotiations and potential settlement

• Trial, if necessary

Tip: The process can take 1-3 years, depending on the complexity of your case and whether it goes to trial.

How Raynes & Lawn Can Assist with Your Brachial Plexus Case

At Raynes & Lawn, we understand the emotional and financial toll a birth injury can take on a family. Our team of experienced birth injury attorneys is dedicated to helping families in Philadelphia navigate the complexities of brachial plexus injury cases.

Tip: When choosing a law firm, look for one with a track record of success in birth injury cases and a compassionate approach to client care.

Building a Strong Brachial Plexus Injury Case

A successful brachial plexus injury case requires a thorough understanding of both medical and legal aspects. Key elements include:

• Proving that the injury was caused by medical negligence

• Demonstrating the long-term impact of the injury on your child’s life

• Calculating the full extent of damages, including future medical costs and potential loss of earning capacity

Tip: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, therapies, and how the injury affects your child’s daily life. This information can be crucial in building a strong case.

Coping with the Emotional Impact of a Birth Injury

Dealing with a birth injury can be emotionally overwhelming for parents. While pursuing legal action is important, it’s equally crucial to take care of your mental health. Consider:

• Joining support groups for parents of children with brachial plexus injuries

• Seeking counseling or therapy

• Educating yourself about your child’s condition and treatment options

Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask your brachial plexus lawyer for resources or referrals to support services in Philadelphia.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the statute of limitations for filing a brachial plexus injury lawsuit in Philadelphia?

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations is typically two years from the date of injury or when the injury was discovered. However, there are exceptions for minors. Consult with a birth injury attorney to understand how this applies to your case.

2. How much does it cost to hire a brachial plexus injury lawyer?

Most birth injury attorneys, including those at Raynes & Lawn, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs; the lawyer only gets paid if they win your case.

3. Can a brachial plexus injury heal on its own?

Some mild brachial plexus injuries can improve or heal within a few months. However, more severe injuries may require surgery and ongoing therapy. Following your doctor’s recommendations and monitoring your child’s progress closely is crucial.

4. What types of compensation can I seek in a brachial plexus injury case?

Compensation in a brachial plexus injury case may include medical expenses, future medical care, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and potential loss of future earning capacity.

5. How long does a brachial plexus injury lawsuit typically take?

The duration of a brachial plexus injury lawsuit can vary greatly depending on the case’s complexity and whether it goes to trial. On average, these cases can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years to resolve.

Work with a Brachial Plexus Lawyer Today

If your child has suffered a brachial plexus injury during birth, don’t face this challenge alone. A knowledgeable brachial plexus lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation your family deserves. At Raynes & Lawn, we’re committed to supporting families in Philadelphia through this challenging time.

Don’t hesitate to contact our talented and knowledgeable birth injury lawyers at Raynes & Lawn Trial Lawyers to protect your rights and your child’s future. Justice may be a long process, but the outcome and results our attorneys achieve can make a tremendous difference for your family. Call us today at 1(800) 535-1797 for more information.