This can be a tough one because birth injuries can be caused by a number of factors, both natural and accidental, and may not show right away. In addition, even if your child's developmental problems are the result of something your doctor did, it still may not be considered their fault. Medical malpractice occurs when a physician does not provide a certain standard of care that other doctors in their position would; it involves negligence, but if a doctor makes a mistake, it does not necessarily mean they were acting negligently.
The first step is to determine the cause of your child's developmental problems. Children who have suffered injuries during birth to the head or brain will frequently exhibit symptoms like:
- Poor muscle coordination
- Learning at a slower rate
- Speech problems
- Difficulty chewing and/or swallowing
- Seizures
If you suspect your doctor directly caused these issues, do not walk into their office and tell them that. Request copies of your medical records, and if asked, simply say they are for your own files. Then, bring those records to a visit with a birth injury attorney. At Girards Law, we will listen to your story, review your records, and help you figure out what is actually the cause of your child's developmental delays. If we suspect the injuries were the result of your doctor's negligence, we can help you move forward and seek damages for all of the trouble they have caused you and your family.
If you gave birth in Texas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma, and your child suffered a birth injury, contact Girards Law for a free consultation at 888-897-2762