If you have recently learned that your child has cerebral palsy, and you suspect that it was caused by a medical error, it is important to speak with an experienced Atlanta cerebral palsy lawyer as soon as possible. Our law firm in Atlanta, Georgia specializes in personal injury, medical malpractice, and other legal practice areas, and we have a combined 75 years of success in serving our clients and our community.
Call Julie A. Rice, Attorney at Law, & Affiliates, P.C. to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Georgia medical malpractice lawyer.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, coordination, and posture. The severity of cerebral palsy can vary widely, from mild to severe.
The symptoms of cerebral palsy can include difficulty with movement and coordination, muscle stiffness, and spasticity (involuntary muscle contractions). Other symptoms may include speech and communication difficulties, cognitive impairment, and vision and hearing problems.
There are different types of cerebral palsy, including:
- Spastic cerebral palsy (which is the most common type and involves muscle stiffness and tightness)
- Dyskinetic cerebral palsy (which involves involuntary movements and difficulties with posture and coordination)
- Ataxic cerebral palsy (which affects balance and coordination).
There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and medications. With the right support and treatment, many people with cerebral palsy are able to lead full and rewarding lives. It is important to note that cerebral palsy is different than Erb’s palsy as cerebral is damage to brain nerves and Erb’s palsy is damage to neck nerves
What Causes Cerebral Palsy?
The exact cause of cerebral palsy is not always known, but it is believed to be the result of brain damage that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. Here are some of the factors that can contribute to the development of cerebral palsy:
- Brain damage before birth: This can occur due to infections, maternal health problems, or genetic factors
- Brain damage during birth: This can occur due to obstetrical errors such as prolonged labor, lack of oxygen to the brain, or trauma during delivery
- Brain damage shortly after birth: This can occur due to infections, head injuries, or lack of oxygen to the brain
- Premature birth: Babies who are born prematurely are at higher risk for cerebral palsy because their brains may not have fully developed
- Genetic factors: In some cases, cerebral palsy may be caused by genetic mutations or inherited conditions that affect brain development
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can cause brain damage and lead to cerebral palsy
If you suspect that your child’s cerebral palsy was caused by a medical error, you may be entitled to substantial compensation to cover past and future expenses related to your child’s resulting medical conditions or disabilities.
Our experienced birth injury lawyers in Atlanta can help you analyze your child’s medical records and prove that medical malpractice occurred.
The Statute of Limitations on Medical Malpractice Claims in Atlanta
The law governing medical malpractice in Atlanta allows you a limited amount of time to seek compensation for your child’s injury. This is called the statute of limitations, and for Atlanta medical malpractice claims, it is generally two years from the date of the injury that led to your child’s cerebral palsy, or from the date it was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. Therefore, it is essential to speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you do not lose your right to be compensated for your child’s injury.
If your child has suffered cerebral palsy at the hands of a medical doctor in Atlanta, expert analysis of your child’s medical records and research into your child’s condition must be done to properly evaluate your case. Our cerebral palsy attorneys in Atlanta are experienced and can provide you with a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options.
Contact an Experienced Cerebral Palsy Lawyer in Atlanta Today
If you suspect that your child’s cerebral palsy was caused by a medical error, it is important to contact an experienced Atlanta cerebral palsy attorney as soon as possible. We can help you navigate the complex legal process to ensure that you receive the compensation you need and deserve.
Contact our firm today at (770) 865-8654 or schedule a free consultation with an experienced Atlanta cerebral palsy attorney. We charge no fee unless we win compensation for you. Let us help you get the justice you deserve.