The delivery complication known as shoulder dystocia is said to occur when an infant’s shoulder becomes lodged behind the mother’s pubic bone, making a normal delivery impossible. In many cases, this problem can be addressed, resulting in a normal and healthy delivery. However, in one Virginia family’s case, it led to permanent disability. During a 2006 delivery that was being overseen by a midwife, the male infant being delivered experienced shoulder dystocia. In order to resolve the issue, the midwife in attendance applied excessive pressure to the head and arms of the baby, causing a severe injury that resulted in a disability that doctors say will be a lifelong health condition for the boy. A jury agreed with the assertion that this treatment decision was in error, and awarded the family $2.3 million.
Has your family been impacted by the tragedy of a birth injury? Let us help you assess your legal options. Contact the California birth injury attorneys at The Heller Law Firm for a free consultation, or call us direct at 866-461-5791. You will hear from us either the same day or within 24 hours.
The Heller Law Firm
Helping Injured Persons and Families Since 1974: Protection When You Need it the Most
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- The lawyers at The Heller Law Firm are dedicated to protecting the rights of those who are catastrophically injured or whose family member has been killed by the negligent or wrongful conduct of others, product malfunctions/failures, injuries on premises and medical malpractice. From broken bones to brain injuries, the lawyers at The Heller Law Firm are qualified to handle all types of personal injury and wrongful death claims including those arising out of motor vehicle accidents (including pedestrians, passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and big-rigs), medical malpractice (including failure to diagnose illness, birth trauma and wrongful life/birth), premises liability, products liability, slip/trip and fall.