Florida Couple Wins Birth Injury Lawsuit

Posted on October 31, 2014 by Shapiro Law Group

A Florida couple sued their doctor and ultrasound technician for failing to tell them their son was disabled before he was born.

The young couple was diligent about prenatal care and following doctor’s orders, so they were excited to welcome the new addition to their family. Tragically, the child was born catastrophically disabled, with no arms and one leg.

Distraught, the plaintiffs argue that the doctor and ultrasound technician should have informed them about their son’s condition before he was born. If they had known about the missing limbs, they would have saved him “a life of physical and psychological pain” and ended the pregnancy.

A judge determined that both the doctor and the ultrasound technician were guilty of negligence and awarded the couple $4.5 million. His parents say that it helps to know that no matter what happens, their son will receive the care he needs.

Are Wrongful Birth Lawsuits Immoral?

Birth injury lawsuits should never be referred to as “wrongful birth” cases, because they are less about birth and more about the cost of caring for a disabled child. Children with physical disabilities often require more medical care, in-home caretakers, physical and behavioral therapy and special schooling, all of which can cost thousands of dollars.

The settlement in this case will most likely be used to cover prostheses, physical therapy, wheelchairs, attendants and psychological care: expenses that the family would not have faced if their child had not been disabled.

Victims of birth injury and prenatal negligence are not bad parents, because they need help caring for their children. If a doctor failed to care for an expectant mother properly, he deserves to be held accountable, regardless of the outcome.

If you believe a doctor’s negligence caused your child’s condition, call Shapiro Law Group to discuss your case. For more information about birth injury and medical malpractice, follow our firm on Facebook or Twitter.

Shapiro Law Group – Medical Malpractice Attorneys Serving the Tampa Bay Area

Source: http://farmingtonhills.legalexaminer.com/medical-malpractice/wrongful-birth-lawsuits-present-a-cruel-quandary-for-parents/

What Our Clients Say

“My dad lost his fingers on one hand due to malpractice after a successful surgery that did not involve fingers. For months we were told it was because of debris in his blood. It was not. Mr. Shapiro and his associates were relentless in getting the medical records until the "missing" page was sent. Then they had the hard and arduous job of finding a doctor willing to testify. An informative video and audio with the doctor's testimony was presented. Case closed. Because of their due diligence, a satisfactory settlement was reached. Mr. Shapiro's law firm worked hard, were extremely thorough, professional, and kept in constant communication throughout the whole stressful ordeal. Mr. Shapiro still remembers my parents and keeps in touch with my mom, even after 15 years have passed. That alone is impressive.”

Patti A.

“The Shapiro Law Group represented our daughter, family, and reputation in winning our daughters case that was due to a catastrophic injury. We interviewed many lawyers and felt Mr. Shapiro would ultimately do what was best for our family. Being involved in a lawsuit is very difficult, emotional, and exhausting. If it weren’t for the Shapiro Law Group fighting for our daughter and family, I don’t know where we would be now. They are very thorough, knowledgeable, and know what needs to be done. Lawsuits can take a very long time, and we knew that Shapiro Law Group would not give up. They did whatever was necessary to help our daughter. We can’t thank Mr. Shapiro enough for all he has done for so many! During a very difficult situation in our lives, the Shapiro Law Group went above and beyond in guiding our family in helping our daughter. We would highly recommend this firm. Thank you,”

Stephanie P.

“Attorney Richard Shapiro was able to provide me with very knowledgeable and competent legal expertise to resolve my case.”

D. Harrison