Orland Park Infant Wrongful Death Lawyers

Tinley Park's Compassionate Advocates for Families with Birth Injuries

Sometimes the most joyous of occasions goes tragically wrong. When a baby dies either before, during, or shortly after birth, mistakes by delivery room personnel are often to blame.

In 2016, Illinois averaged 6.3 infant deaths per 1,000 births, with a total of 980 fatalities. Medical negligence by doctors, nurses, and hospitals during childbirth leads to many newborn fatal injuries. In these instances, the parents, legal guardians, or relatives can sue the individuals or medical establishment responsible for their baby's wrongful death. Schwartz Injury Law can provide the representation you need to pursue an infant wrongful death case and hold negligent parties responsible. Our firm has the deep pockets necessary to take on these very complex cases and prove negligence.

What Causes Infant Death?

Oxygen deprivation (or hypoxia) is one of the most common complications that may occur during child delivery, and it can be fatal. Delivery room personnel must recognize any sign that a baby is not getting enough oxygen. Death sometimes occurs if an umbilical cord is wrapped around a baby's neck or if there are problems with the placenta.

Other potential reasons for infant death include:

• Reduced blood flow, which may cause the heart, brain, or other vital organs to shut down.
• Improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction.
• Skull trauma.
• Uterine rupture.
• Spinal cord damage.
• Untreated infant jaundice.

While a doctor or medical staff may not be responsible for a stillborn birth caused by a traumatic event that occurred prior to a mother receiving medical attention, if their actions contributed to a stillborn birth, or if they could have prevented it, they may be found liable.

Regardless of the stated cause of death, Schwartz Injury Law will perform a complete investigation to make the determination of whether medical negligence played a role. Wrongful death settlements and judgments for our clients include an award of $19.2 million for the death of an infant from birth injuries related to meconium aspiration.

Infant Wrongful Death Cases

For a successful claim, you must demonstrate how negligence caused the injuries that resulted in your child's death. A doctor/patient relationship must have been in place prior to delivery, and the lawsuit must be filed within eight years of the child's injury.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses incurred to aid the child prior to death.
• Funeral and burial costs.
• Grief-related counseling and medications.
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering.

Do not be intimidated by the thought of a lengthy court battle against a hospital. Schwartz Injury Law will apply the full weight of our resources to fight for you, and we will serve as a dedicated ally throughout the pursuit of justice in your case.

Compassionate Attorneys for Wrongful Death Lawsuits

When an infant dies as a result of medical negligence, you are entitled to pursue financial compensation through legal action. While the monetary loss does not compare to the death of a child, a verdict or settlement can ensure medical bills and other related expenses do not compound your anguish. Let Schwartz Injury Law help you take a big step in the healing process. Contact an Orland Park personal injury lawyer at 708-888-2160 for a free consultation. We serve clients throughout the area, including but not limited to Tinley Park, Oak Forest, Homewood, Mokena, Homer Glen, Oak Lawn, and Chicago Heights.