Cerebral Palsy & Washington DC law general overview
Cerebral palsy is a condition that occurs either during or after birth wherein the brain is traumatized due to deprivation of oxygen for a period of time. This condition is distinguished by loss of movement and coordination or loss of nerve function. Cerebral palsy is a lifelong, crippling condition that can have devastating consequences on the lives of those affected by the disorder.
Each individual that is diagnosed with cerebral palsy is affected differently by the disorder. While some individuals are able to live a relatively normal life, many others require extensive medical care and supervision throughout their lifetime. It has been estimated that the average lifetime cost of caring for an individual with cerebral palsy is approximately $500,000.
It is estimated that nearly 8,000 babies are born with cerebral palsy on an annual basis. While most children are not diagnosed with cerebral palsy until about 3 years of age, the child will present early symptoms of cerebral palsy by about 2 months of age. These warning signs include the failure to meet expected developmental milestones, such as the child’s inability to hold up his or her head, roll over, crawl, sit-up, smile, or walk. Additionally, parents may notice the child does not respond to loud noises or has loose muscles or “floppy” limbs. In some cases, the child’s muscles may be too rigid. These can all be signs that the child is affected by cerebral palsy.
While many doctors contend that cerebral palsy is the result of the natural birthing process, many others assert that cerebral palsy is often the result of the doctor’s or physician’s negligence. This is where we step in as attorneys. When parents are convinced that their child’s disorder is the result of medical malpractice, we will use every resource available to us to help parents prove and win their case.
Children that are injured due to medical malpractice may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. Because the cost of caring for a child with cerebral palsy is extraordinary, it is only appropriate that those responsible for the injury be held responsible for damages. Scheduling a medical negligence consultation with an experienced Washington D.C. attorney can help parents determine if their child is eligible for financial remuneration for their injuries.
In Washington D.C. there is a statute of limitations in regard to the length of time individuals have to file a medical negligence lawsuit. Therefore, it is imperative that a lawsuit be filed as soon possible once the injury has been detected and the case is found to have standing or merit. In many cases, lawsuits in Washington D.C. are settled before going to court.
Parents that live in Washington D.C. or the surrounding areas should contact our law firm for a consultation. Our legal team is comprised of experts in the area of personal injury, especially birth injuries as the result of medical malpractice. We will diligently and aggressively pursue those responsible for your child’s injuries. Click here to contact our law firm.
