Evansville Cerebral Palsy Attorney

Secure Justice with an Evansville Cerebral Palsy Attorney

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our attorneys offer a comprehensive approach to cerebral palsy cases, handling every step from the initial investigation to negotiation or, if necessary, courtroom advocacy. Each case we take on is fueled by our dedication to obtaining the resources families need for long-term support.

Our legal services include:

• In-depth investigation: Thorough review of medical records and documentation to identify potential errors or neglect during delivery.
• Medical expert consultations: Access to top medical experts who provide crucial insights and testimony to strengthen the case.
• Collection of evidence of negligence: Gathering all relevant evidence to demonstrate the healthcare provider’s deviation from accepted standards of care.
• Negotiation with insurance companies: Vigorous negotiation to secure the best possible settlement for the full scope of damages.
• Court representation: Skilled courtroom advocacy for cases that require litigation to obtain a just result.

To learn more about our comprehensive support for families affected by medical negligence, we invite you to schedule a consultation with an expert Evansville birth injury lawyer. We’re ready to listen to your story and offer expert legal guidance to build a compelling case on your behalf.

What Causes Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition resulting from brain damage that often occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. In many cases, this damage can be linked to medical negligence, where improper actions—or lack of necessary actions—by healthcare providers lead to oxygen deprivation, physical trauma, or other issues affecting brain development. Improper use of medical instruments, delayed emergency C-sections, and failure to monitor fetal distress are all common scenarios that may result in cerebral palsy, making it essential to investigate any signs of malpractice.

According to the CDC, an estimated 1 in 345 children has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, making it one of the most common motor disabilities in childhood.

Common causes include:

• Oxygen deprivation during birth (birth asphyxia): Lack of oxygen can cause brain damage, leading to lifelong challenges associated with cerebral palsy.
• Delayed emergency C-sections: When immediate intervention is required to avoid complications, a delay can have serious consequences.
• Improper use of delivery tools: Medical instruments like forceps or vacuum extractors, if used incorrectly, can lead to physical trauma or brain injury.
• Failure to monitor fetal distress: Healthcare providers must closely monitor the baby’s vital signs to ensure any signs of distress are promptly addressed.

Compensation Available for Cerebral Palsy Cases

Families impacted by cerebral palsy due to medical malpractice face considerable financial burdens over a lifetime. Legal compensation serves to alleviate these challenges by covering both current and future expenses related to the injury. Compensation can address a wide range of needs, from immediate medical bills to ongoing therapies and necessary home modifications. Types of compensation include:

• Medical expenses: Covers past and future treatments, including surgeries, medications, hospital stays, and regular doctor visits. Cerebral palsy often involves significant medical costs that accumulate over a lifetime.
• Rehabilitation and therapy: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are crucial for many children with cerebral palsy to improve mobility, speech, and functional abilities.
• Assistive devices and home modifications: Many children require assistive devices like wheelchairs, walkers, or communication tools. Home modifications, such as ramps or widened doorways, may also be necessary to create an accessible environment.
• Pain and suffering: Acknowledges the physical and emotional impact on both the child and their family, addressing the intangible losses they experience.
• Future loss of income: Compensation for potential lost earnings if the child’s disability impacts their ability to work in adulthood, securing a foundation for future financial stability.

We’ll assist you in determining which types of compensation are available based on the specific circumstances of your case.

How to Prove Medical Negligence in Cerebral Palsy Cases

Building a strong case for medical negligence in cerebral palsy claims involves detailed investigation and expert analysis. It is crucial to demonstrate that the healthcare provider’s actions deviated from accepted medical standards, leading directly to the child’s condition. This process requires in-depth knowledge of both medical and legal fields, making the assistance of a specialized attorney invaluable.

Key steps include:

• Reviewing prenatal and delivery medical records: Analyzing the healthcare provider’s actions and any indications of negligence, including failure to act on signs of fetal distress or delays in providing necessary interventions.
• Consulting medical experts: Expert testimony helps establish whether the standard of care was met or breached, with specialists often providing critical insights into what should have been done differently.
• Gathering evidence of deviation from standard care: Collecting proof of negligence, such as improper use of delivery instruments or failure to perform an emergency C-section.
• Demonstrating causation: Showing a direct link between the provider’s negligence and the child’s cerebral palsy diagnosis.

Through a detailed approach to gathering and presenting evidence, a cerebral palsy attorney at our law firm can help your family seek accountability and secure necessary resources for your child’s needs through a medical malpractice lawsuit.

Indiana Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice Cases

In Indiana, the statute of limitations for filing medical malpractice claims generally requires cases to be filed within two years from the date of the injury. For families affected by cerebral palsy, adhering to these time limits is crucial, as missing the deadline can prevent them from seeking compensation. However, certain exceptions may apply in cases involving minors, potentially extending the filing period.

Contact an Evansville Cerebral Palsy Attorney for a Free Consultation

Facing a diagnosis of cerebral palsy due to medical negligence is a life-changing event. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we understand the challenges and uncertainties that follow such a diagnosis, and we are here to provide the guidance and support your family needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping families in Evansville pursue justice, holding negligent parties accountable, and securing the resources necessary for long-term care and support.

Starting with a free consultation, we’ll review your case in detail, outline your legal options, and answer your questions. Our goal is to ensure that your child has access to the best possible care and that your family has the financial support needed for a brighter future.

Contact us to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward justice and security for your child.