Kentucky parents may be interested to learn of a Dec. 23 settlement that was awarded to the family of a 4-year-old who suffered permanent disabilities as a result of his birth injuries. The Pennsylvania jury determined that the plaintiffs should receive a sum of $55 million after their child suffered serious birth injuries because a doctor failed to take appropriate actions during delivery.
The boy now suffers from cerebral palsy and other specific developmental delays that the family said were the result of oxygen deprivation. Following two weeks of judicial proceedings and evidence reviews, the trial jury laid the blame squarely on the shoulders of St. Luke’s hospital and a specific maternity doctor.
Although a spokesperson for the care facility claimed that the facility’s staff took appropriate care actions, the jury determined that the doctor in question ignored warning signs that should have told him the baby wasn’t receiving enough oxygen. It remains unknown why the care provider failed to perform a cesarean section to remove the baby and avoid the health issues that arose.
Birth injuries may result in serious long-term medical issues and cognitive disabilities. These health problems can make it extremely difficult for families to care for their children, though some parents have the option of filing medical malpractice lawsuits to offset the increased expenses associated with raising their children and securing advanced care after their own deaths. Attorneys may be able to help these families by making sure that all of the required paperwork is filed correctly and on time. They may also negotiate with hospitals’ insurance companies for appropriate settlement amounts.
If you think you may have a Kentucky or Ohio birth injury claim, schedule a free consultation with a Covington or Cincinnati medical malpractice lawyer at The Lawrence Firm, PSC as soon as possible.
Source: Insurance Journal, “Pennsylvania Jury Awards $55M for Boy’s Injuries at Birth“, December 27, 2013