Baltimore Birth Injury Lawyer

When Labor and Delivery Negligence Results in Injuries to Mother and Child

LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, P.A. was established in 1987 by local lawyers focused on providing effective representation to our neighbors in Baltimore. We understand that experiencing a childbirth-related injury is difficult for you and your family. Our attorneys and staff act with compassion and confidentiality as we pursue your rightful compensation for the damages caused by your medical providers’ negligence.

Risk of Injuries to Newborn Babies

You may have a medical malpractice claim against your obstetrician and hospital if your child suffered a birth injury, such as:

  • Brachial palsy — Damage to the brachial plexus, the bundle of nerves in the shoulder that sends signals to the hands and arms, can cause brachial palsy or Erb’s palsy resulting in permanent disabilities.
  • Cerebral asphyxia — Oxygen deprivation can cause fetal distress in utero or during delivery.
  • Cerebral palsy — A baby may develop cerebral palsy as a result of asphyxia or brain trauma during delivery or because of premature birth.
  • Facial paralysis — Pressure on the baby’s head as it travels through the birth canal can damage the facial nerves.
  • Fractures — Pulling on the baby during a breech delivery may cause broken bones, especially of the clavicle and collarbone.

Injuries to Mothers During Labor

A woman may suffer traumatic injury during childbirth because of medical negligence, such as:

  • Hemorrhage
  • Misdiagnosis of medical conditions that can jeopardize the health of the mother or pregnancy
  • Nerve damage during delivery
  • Spinal injury from incorrectly inserted epidural
  • Obstetric fistula resulting in incontinence
  • Untreated infection

Why Injuries Occur During Labor and Delivery

Obstetricians have a duty to screen their patients for risk factors, including:

  • Breech position of the baby
  • Conception through in vitro fertilization methods
  • Larger-than-average size and weight of the fetus
  • Maternal health, including being obese or underweight before pregnancy
  • Mother’s medical conditions, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and preeclampsia
  • Pregnancy with twins or triplets

A complete evaluation is essential to determine whether a vaginal or cesarean-section delivery is in the best interests of the mother and baby. In addition, doctors and nurses are expected to respond immediately and appropriately to problems arising during the labor and delivery. If you or your child sustained childbirth injuries, our legal team investigates whether your obstetric healthcare providers are responsible.

Maryland Birth Injury Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Families Whose Baby Sustained Injuries During Childbirth

To learn more about recovering for injuries caused during childbirth, speak to a Baltimore birth injury lawyer at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, P.A. Call 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact our firm online to schedule your free initial consultation. Our firm represents you on a contingency basis.