The brachial plexus injury lawyers at DRS Law can help
Brachial plexus injuries can have devastating effects, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis of the arm. At DRS Law Personal Injury Lawyers , we understand the significant impact these injuries can have on a person’s life and livelihood. In this post, we’ll explore the most common causes of brachial plexus injuries and discuss potential legal avenues for seeking compensation.
Common Causes of Brachial Plexus Injuries
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents , especially motorcycle collisions, are a leading cause of traumatic brachial plexus injuries. The forceful impact and stretching of the neck and shoulder during crashes can severely damage the brachial plexus nerves.
Birth Injuries
Brachial plexus injuries can occur during childbirth, particularly in cases involving:
Large babies passing through a small birth canal
Prolonged labor
Breech presentations
Shoulder dystocia (when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck during delivery)
These birth-related injuries often result in a condition called Erb’s palsy, affecting the upper part of the brachial plexus
Contact Sports
Contact sports like football and wrestling frequently result in brachial plexus injuries, often referred to as “stingers” or “burners”. These typically occur when the shoulder is forced down while the head is pushed to the opposite side, stretching the nerves.
Falls
Falls , especially from heights, can cause brachial plexus injuries when a person reaches out to break their fall, putting sudden traction on the nerves
Other Causes
Penetrating injuries (e.g., knife wounds, gunshot wounds)
Compression from tumors or swelling in the shoulder region
Inflammation of surrounding tissues
Legal Options for Compensation
If you or a loved one has suffered a brachial plexus injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Here are some potential legal avenues to consider:
Personal Injury Lawsuits
A personal injury lawsuit may be appropriate for injuries resulting from accidents or negligence. This could apply to motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, or falls on someone else’s property
Medical Malpractice Claims
In cases of birth injuries or other medical errors leading to brachial plexus damage, a medical malpractice lawsuit might be warranted. These cases require proving that a healthcare provider’s negligence directly caused the injury
Product Liability Claims
If a defective product contributed to the injury, you might have grounds for a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or seller
Workers’ Compensation
For injuries occurring on the job, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to cover medical expenses and lost wages
Purpose of Settlements
Brachial plexus injury settlements aim to cover various expenses and damages, including:
Surgical repair costs
Rehabilitation expenses
Assistive devices (braces, slings, etc.)
Ongoing medical treatment
Potential in-home care
Lost wages for caregivers
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Steps to Take
If you believe you have a case, here are some important steps to consider:
Seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations.
Document everything related to the injury, including medical records, expenses, and impact on daily life.
Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in brachial plexus injuries
Be aware of the statute of limitations in your state, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit
At DRS Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience handling brachial plexus injury cases. We understand the complexities involved and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Our team can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and if necessary, take your case to court
Don’t let a brachial plexus injury derail your life without exploring your legal options. Contact DRS Law Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your case and potential paths to compensation.
