Bone Fractures During Birth: Understanding Your Legal Options In Chicago
Learning that your newborn has broken bones can be overwhelming. Doctors may say that bone fractures sometimes happen during delivery. That is true in certain cases, but sometimes these injuries occur because a medical provider used too much force or failed to act quickly enough.
At Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, attorney Frank Morrissey represents families in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs who want clear answers. Before becoming a plaintiff’s attorney, he defended hospitals and doctors. He understands how they review these cases and how they try to explain injuries away. Today, he uses that experience to help injured children and their parents.
Types Of Bone Fractures During Birth
The most common bone fractures at birth include:
- Clavicle fractures (collarbone), often linked to shoulder dystocia
- Humerus fractures, involving the upper arm
- Femur fractures, affecting the thigh
- Skull fractures, sometimes related to improper tool use
Some fractures heal within weeks. Unfortunately, others can lead to nerve damage, weakness or long-term complications that require therapy or ongoing care.
How These Injuries Happen
Doctors may use forceps or a vacuum device to help deliver a baby, and these tools require careful training and judgment. Pulling too hard or twisting the baby’s body can cause bone fractures.
Shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck, is a known emergency. Medical teams must follow accepted steps. If they panic, use excessive force or delay a necessary C-section, the risk of injury rises.
Not every fracture means malpractice occurred. However, when medical staff ignore warning signs, misuse delivery tools or fail to follow proper procedures, their conduct may fall below the standard of care. An experienced birth injury lawyer can review the records and explain whether negligence likely played a role.
Compensation And Time Limits In Illinois
If negligence caused your child’s bone fractures, you may seek compensation for medical bills, future care, pain and suffering, and long-term needs. Frank Morrissey handles these cases on a contingency fee basis. Families pay nothing unless he recovers compensation.
Illinois law limits the time to file a medical malpractice claim, even in cases involving children. Generally, the time limit is up to eight years after the injury occurred. Speaking with an attorney early helps protect evidence and preserve your rights.
Talk To A Birth Injury Attorney Who Will Fight For Your Family’s Rights
Frank Morrissey has built his career on explaining complex medical issues in plain language. If you believe your baby’s injury could have been prevented, contact him at 312-815-5856 or send an email for a free consultation. He is available 24/7 to listen and help you understand your next steps.