San Francisco Erb’s Palsy Attorney

Compassionate Legal Help for Families Facing Erb’s Palsy

The birth of a child is a moment filled with love and joy, but complications during delivery can transform this joyful occasion into a stressful and emotional experience. Erb’s palsy, a birth injury affecting the nerves in an infant’s upper arm, is one such complication that often stems from medical negligence. If your child has been diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, Peterson Injury Law is here to provide the guidance and legal representation you need during this challenging time.

Our founding attorney, Erik L. Peterson, has more than 30 years of experience advocating for injury victims and their families. Known for his compassionate approach and relentless pursuit of justice, he leads a team committed to helping families secure compensation and peace of mind.

Schedule your free consultation today by calling (415) 630-2913 or contacting us online.

Understanding Erb’s Palsy

What Is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s palsy is a condition that affects the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that extends from the neck to the shoulder and controls movement in the arm, hand, and fingers. When these nerves are damaged, the baby may suffer from weakness, loss of sensation, or even complete paralysis in the affected arm.

This injury often occurs during childbirth when excessive force is applied as the baby’s shoulder becomes lodged against the mother’s pelvic bone, a situation known as shoulder dystocia. While some cases resolve with treatment, severe nerve damage can lead to long-term or permanent disability.

Symptoms of Erb’s Palsy

Parents often notice symptoms of Erb’s palsy shortly after birth. These may include the following in the affected arm:

• Weakness or limited movement
• Loss of sensation
• An arm bent at the elbow and held close to the body
• Gradual muscle atrophy over time

If your newborn is showing signs of Erb’s palsy, it’s crucial to seek medical care and consult an experienced attorney to understand your legal options.

How Medical Negligence Causes Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s palsy is preventable in most cases. It occurs when medical professionals fail to respond appropriately to complications during delivery, particularly shoulder dystocia.

Common Causes of Erb’s Palsy Due to Negligence:

• Excessive Force: Using forceps, vacuum extractors, or manually pulling on the infant’s head or neck during delivery.
• Failure to Perform a Timely Cesarean Section (C-Section): Delaying an emergency cesarean when signs of complications arise can lead to unnecessary trauma.
• Mismanagement of Shoulder Dystocia: Failing to perform standard techniques to safely dislodge the baby’s shoulder.
• Poor Monitoring During Labor: Ignoring signs of a large baby, breech position, or other risks that should prompt preventative measures.

At Peterson Injury Law, we handle the investigative process to determine whether medical negligence played a role in causing your child’s injury.

Why Choose Peterson Injury Law?

Pursuing legal action in cases of Erb’s palsy can be complex, requiring an understanding of both medical standards and the law. Peterson Injury Law stands out for our proven expertise and compassionate client service.

What Sets Us Apart:

1. Decades of Experience: Erik Peterson has represented families in high-stakes injury cases, earning multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts, including those related to birth injuries.
2. Proven Track Record: Our team has successfully held medical professionals accountable, including record-setting verdicts.
3. Expert Collaboration: We work with leading medical experts, obstetricians, and neurologists to build a strong case for our clients.
4. Personalized Advocacy: Every family and every case is unique. We take the time to listen to your story and tailor our strategy to meet your needs.
5. Nationally Recognized Attorney: Erik Peterson has been honored in Super Lawyers® for 20 consecutive years, among many other prestigious accolades.

By choosing Peterson Injury Law, you’re gaining a trusted advocate who will work tirelessly to protect your family’s future.

Compensation for Families Impacted by Erb’s Palsy

Raising a child with Erb’s palsy can involve significant financial, physical, and emotional challenges. At Peterson Injury Law, we fight to secure compensation that addresses all aspects of your family’s losses.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To:

• Medical Expenses: Covers all costs of treatment, including physical therapy, surgery, and occupational therapy.
• Long-Term Care: Compensation for ongoing medical needs, in-home care, or specialized equipment required as your child grows.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Includes therapies and specialized programs to enhance mobility and quality of life.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages to account for your child’s physical discomfort and the emotional toll on your family.
• Lost Income: If you’ve had to take time away from work or may need to reduce your hours to care for your child.

We work diligently to calculate the full value of your claim, ensuring that the compensation you receive reflects not just current costs but also future financial needs.

How Peterson Injury Law Will Handle Your Case

Navigating a birth injury claim can be overwhelming, especially while caring for your child. That’s why Peterson Injury Law handles every aspect of your Erb’s palsy case, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

Our Process:

1. Comprehensive Case Review: We start with a free consultation to understand your child’s injury and identify signs of negligence.
2. Evidence Gathering: Our team collects medical records, labor and delivery logs, and consults with birth injury experts to establish fault.
3. Building Your Claim: We work to prove that your child’s injuries were preventable and directly caused by medical negligence.
4. Negotiation: We engage with insurance companies to pursue a fair settlement that reflects the full scope of damages.
5. Litigation When Needed: If a settlement isn’t adequate, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.

We approach every case with the diligence and determination it deserves, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.

Time Is Limited to File a Claim

California law sets strict time limits for filing birth injury claims, known as the statute of limitations. Typically, families have three years from the date of the injury or discovery to file a medical malpractice claim.

However, exceptions may apply in cases involving minors. Acting quickly ensures we can preserve evidence and meet critical deadlines to protect your child’s rights.

Contact Peterson Injury Law Today

When your child has been diagnosed with Erb’s palsy due to medical negligence, you should not have to shoulder the financial and emotional burdens alone. Peterson Injury Law is here to help you seek justice and secure the resources your family needs to move forward. You can focus on caring for your child while we fight for your family’s future. Don’t wait to take action—reach out to us today.

Call (415) 630-2913 today or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.