Atlanta Cerebral Palsy & Brain Injury Claims

If your family is facing the challenges of a child’s cerebral palsy, understanding your child’s condition is crucial for seeking compensation and ensuring they receive the care they need. Cerebral palsy can significantly affect a child’s development, impacting their growth, learning, and overall well-being throughout a child’s life. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to support your child’s development and improve their quality of life.

When medical negligence is suspected as a cause of your child’s cerebral palsy, it is important to identify how errors during pregnancy or delivery may have led to your child’s injury. Legal representation can help families seek justice and pursue compensation for the long-term impact on a child’s life. Addressing the emotional and economic burden also means considering the ongoing needs and future care required due to your child’s injury, and the necessity of legal action to secure those resources.

Pursuing a cerebral palsy case allows families to recover damages for the child’s injury, holding negligent parties accountable and providing support for your child’s condition. Legal and medical support are vital to ensure your child has the best possible opportunities throughout their life.

Atlanta Cerebral Palsy Lawyer REPRESENTING CLIENTS THROUGHOUT GEORGIA

Cerebral palsy is a disorder caused by malformation or damage to the brain before, during, or after birth. Diagnosis can occur shortly after birth, and in some cases, diagnosis at an Atlanta hospital may raise questions about the quality of care received and potential medical malpractice claims linked to these hospitals. The condition is serious and lifelong, and may result in complications including:

• Intellectual and learning difficulties
• Speech, vision, or hearing problems
• Poor muscle control and coordination
• Poor reflexes
• Chronic pain
• Seizures
• Abnormal touch perceptions
• Urinary incontinence
• Mental health conditions
• Cognitive impairment

Children diagnosed with cerebral palsy may also be more likely to struggle with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and may be more prone to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well. Some children develop cerebral palsy due to complications during the birth process or medical errors.

If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you suspect medical negligence played a role, you may have cause to file a birth injury lawsuit. Birth injury law covers cases where a child’s cerebral palsy or other injuries result from medical negligence during childbirth. Call Chance, Forlines, Carter & King at 404-760-7400 to schedule a complimentary case review and learn more. Located in Atlanta, we welcome families struggling with the complexities of birth injury from all parts of Georgia.

Cerebral palsy can significantly affect a child’s development and overall quality of life, impacting their ability to reach important milestones. Planning for your child’s future is essential to ensure their well-being and security, especially when seeking compensation for your child’s injury. The emotional and economic burden of caring for a child with cerebral palsy can be overwhelming, and the long-term impact on a child’s life underscores the importance of pursuing appropriate legal and medical support.

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE CEREBRAL PALSY? WE CAN HELP

Finding out that your child has cerebral palsy can be very frightening. We are here to help your family through the entire process. Our Atlanta cerebral palsy injury attorneys will provide you with local and national support organizations, such as Babies Can’t Wait, along with other resources for families and children dealing with the consequences of cerebral palsy. We will also stand by your side, protect you against the sneaky tactics often employed by negligent healthcare providers, and fight tirelessly for the compensation your child’s injury demands.

Having a child with cerebral palsy means taking into account the services he or she will need for life. This may include:

• Special schooling
• After-school care
• Medical and rehabilitation expenses
• Adaptive technology

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder. This can be a profound economic and emotional burden.

The National Institutes of Health reports that lifetime costs for individuals with cerebral palsy can reach or exceed $2 million. If the disorder was a result of medical negligence, these costs should not be shouldered by the victim’s family, they should be covered through a suitable medical malpractice settlement that also takes into account the emotional struggles this disorder will cause. Our cerebral palsy injury attorneys are prepared to fight for the fair and full compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Our Atlanta Cerebral Palsy Lawyers?

The birth injury lawyers at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King have decades of experience helping families deal with the consequences of medical negligence. Experienced and dedicated, we have a labor and delivery nurse on staff as well as attorneys who have worked for the medical industry, giving us unique insight into how these injuries occur and a comprehensive understanding of how they are defended.

We will not back down to powerful interests. We will fight, tooth and nail, for every penny your family deserves. Call us at 404-760-7400 to set up a cost and obligation-free consultation and learn more.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF CEREBRAL PALSY?

When cerebral palsy is a result of medical malpractice, it is typically caused by a lack of oxygen during delivery. Complications during the birth process, such as improper techniques or medical error, can lead to neurological damage and conditions like cerebral palsy. Asphyxiation during birth is often a result of improper monitoring, including failure to monitor the baby’s heart rate for signs of distress, though several other factors can play a role as well. Prompt medical attention after complications is crucial to prevent or mitigate severe outcomes.

Additional causes of cerebral palsy may include:

• Improper use of delivery equipment
• Undiagnosed fetal or maternal infection
• Intracranial bleeding
• Umbilical cord complications
• Cephalopelvic disproportion
• Shoulder dystocia
• Placental disruption
• Uterine rupture
• Preeclampsia
• Low birth weight

It is important to note that cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder affecting movement and muscle tone, while other nerve injuries such as erb’s palsy specifically involve damage to the brachial plexus nerves and result in different symptoms.

A majority of cerebral palsy claims arising from birth injury involve fetal asphyxiation. It is possible that several cases of cerebral palsy could be avoided every year if C-Sections were performed as soon as needed. Delayed C-Section or vaginal birth following C-Section are both risk factors for oxygen deprivation and brain injury during labor and delivery.

Medical error by a medical professional or other medical professionals during the birth process can result in unnecessary injuries such as cerebral palsy or erb’s palsy. If your labor or delivery was rocky and your child has been diagnosed with brain injury or cerebral palsy, you may have cause to file suit. Medical malpractice cases and medical malpractice lawsuits can help families seek compensation for injuries like cerebral palsy by holding healthcare providers accountable for negligence. Call our Atlanta birth injury lawyers today to schedule a free consultation and learn more.

SYMPTOMS OF CEREBRAL PALSY

There are several symptoms of cerebral palsy that should be brought to the attention of your child’s doctor:

• Excessive muscle stiffness or rigidity
• Muscle spasticity or involuntary tremors
• Muscle weakness
• Lack of muscle coordination
• Frequent slow, writing movements
• Difficulties sucking or eating

These issues may be noticeable even in early infancy. Some of the symptoms of cerebral palsy will, however, not be apparent until benchmarks are not being met. These include:

• Difficulties rolling over and crawling
• Difficulties walking
• Favoring one side of the body
• Delay in fine motor skills
• Delay in speech development

Cerebral palsy cases can vary widely, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe and often involving multiple complications that require ongoing treatments. It is common for babies with cerebral palsy to strongly favor one side of the body. This often results in asymmetrical movements which may include using just one arm to push when crawling or dragging one foot or leg when walking. These symptoms may indicate brain injury sustained during birth and should be discussed with a doctor as soon as they appear.

If these symptoms are the result of medical negligence, families may consider pursuing cerebral palsy lawsuits to seek compensation and support for their child’s needs.

BRAIN INJURY AND CEREBRAL PALSY: UNDERSTANDING THE CONNECTION

Brain injuries sustained during the birthing process can have life-altering consequences for a child, often resulting in neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a group of conditions that affect movement, muscle tone, and coordination, typically caused by brain damage or abnormal brain development before, during, or shortly after birth. Understanding how brain injuries and cerebral palsy are connected is essential for families navigating the challenges of a cerebral palsy diagnosis and considering their legal options.

Medical malpractice, including medical errors and medical negligence, is a leading cause of brain injuries that can develop into cerebral palsy. Complications such as fetal distress, umbilical cord problems, maternal infections, or delayed response to warning signs during labor can deprive a baby’s brain of oxygen, resulting in permanent brain damage. When these preventable mistakes occur, families have the right to seek compensation through medical malpractice claims with the help of an experienced medical malpractice attorney.

Cerebral palsy presents in several forms, each with unique challenges. Spastic cerebral palsy, the most common type, is marked by muscle stiffness and spasms, making movement difficult. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy involves involuntary movements and poor coordination, while ataxic cerebral palsy affects balance and can cause tremors and shaky movements. These symptoms often require ongoing care, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, to help children improve their abilities and quality of life.

The financial burden of managing a child’s cerebral palsy can be overwhelming, with costs for medical care, therapy, adaptive equipment, and ongoing support quickly adding up. That’s why it’s crucial for families to consult an experienced cerebral palsy lawyer who can review medical records, investigate whether medical malpractice occurred, and guide them through the process of filing a cerebral palsy claim. A free consultation with an Atlanta cerebral palsy attorney can provide clarity on your legal rights and help you understand the steps involved in pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit.

Georgia law generally allows two years from the date of injury or discovery to file a medical malpractice claim, but for children, the statute of limitations typically begins on their 18th birthday. Acting promptly and seeking advice from a knowledgeable cerebral palsy attorney ensures your child’s rights are protected and that you have the best chance to secure the financial resources needed for their ongoing care and future.

A cerebral palsy diagnosis can be overwhelming, but with the right support, resources, and legal representation, families can help their children lead fulfilling lives. If you believe your child’s cerebral palsy was caused by medical negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced Atlanta cerebral palsy lawyer for a free consultation today. Your child’s future and well-being deserve the strongest possible advocacy.

LIFE CARE PLANNING FOR CEREBRAL PALSY

Life care planning is an essential step for families affected by cerebral palsy, providing a roadmap to ensure your child receives the ongoing care, therapies, and support they need to thrive. Because cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition, planning for the future is critical—not only to address immediate medical needs but also to secure your child’s long-term well-being and financial security.

An experienced cerebral palsy lawyer in Atlanta can help your family develop a comprehensive life care plan tailored to your child’s unique needs. This plan typically includes provisions for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, all of which are vital for managing symptoms and maximizing your child’s abilities. In addition, a life care plan may address adaptive equipment, home modifications, and specialized educational resources to support your child’s development and independence.

Working with Atlanta cerebral palsy attorneys means you’ll have access to a network of medical professionals and experts who can assess your child’s condition and recommend the best course of treatment. Your legal team can also help you navigate the complexities of medical bills, insurance claims, and compensation for medical malpractice, ensuring you have the financial resources necessary for your child’s ongoing care.

A well-structured life care plan goes beyond medical needs. It considers your child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, providing access to educational opportunities, recreational activities, and social support services. By addressing these aspects, families can help their child with cerebral palsy achieve their full potential and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Life care planning is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process that should be reviewed and updated regularly as your child grows and their needs evolve. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can guide you through these updates, advocate for your child’s rights, and ensure your plan remains effective over time.

If your child’s cerebral palsy was caused by medical negligence or a medical error during the birth process, you may be entitled to compensation under Georgia law. An experienced cerebral palsy lawyer can help you file a medical malpractice lawsuit, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation your family deserves. This financial support can be crucial for covering medical bills, therapies, and other expenses related to your child’s care.

TALK TO OUR ATLANTA CEREBRAL PALSY ATTORNEYS

If your child’s brain injury was a result of medical negligence, you are entitled to compensation for all related damages. Call 404-760-7400 or if you prefer use our online contact form here for a complimentary case review with one of the Atlanta birth injury lawyers at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King to learn how we can help.

We maintain two offices in Atlanta. We serve Columbus, Augusta, Savannah, Decatur, and all surrounding areas of Georgia.