Bristol County Birth Injury Lawyer

Ready to Help Your Family

Welcoming a child into the world should be a moment of joy. Unfortunately, when medical professionals fail to uphold the standard of care, the outcome can be devastating. Birth injuries can lead to lifelong physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges for both the child and their family. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we are committed to standing by families in Bristol County, Rhode Island, who have suffered because of preventable medical negligence. Our Bristol County birth injury attorney can help you pursue justice and financial compensation to secure your child’s future.

Call (401) 200-4059 today to schedule a free case review with our team.

What is a Birth Injury?

A birth injury is any physical harm or medical complication that a newborn sustains before, during, or shortly after delivery. While some minor complications may heal with time, others can cause permanent disabilities.

It is important to distinguish between a birth injury and a birth defect. A birth defect is typically the result of genetic or developmental factors, while a birth injury is often caused by medical negligence. If a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider fails to act appropriately during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, the child may suffer injuries that could—and should—have been prevented.

Common Types of Birth Injuries

Birth injuries can vary widely in severity. Some may be temporary, while others lead to permanent conditions requiring lifelong care. Common examples include:

• Cerebral Palsy – Often caused by oxygen deprivation during delivery, leading to motor skill impairments and developmental delays.
• Erb’s Palsy (Brachial Plexus Injuries) – Nerve damage that can cause weakness or paralysis in the child’s arm.
• Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) – Brain damage caused by insufficient oxygen or blood flow during birth.
• Fractures – Broken bones, commonly the clavicle, during difficult or forceful deliveries.
• Facial Nerve Damage – Injuries caused by improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction.
• Shoulder Dystocia Injuries – Complications when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck, sometimes leading to nerve damage or fractures.

These injuries can result in lifelong medical care needs, therapy, and special accommodations.

Common Causes of Birth Injuries

While not every complication during childbirth can be prevented, many birth injuries occur because of avoidable medical errors. Some common causes include:

• Failure to Monitor Fetal Distress – Ignoring or misreading signs such as abnormal heart rate.
• Delayed Cesarean Section (C-Section) – Failing to perform a timely C-section when complications arise.
• Improper Use of Delivery Tools – Excessive force or misuse of forceps or vacuum extractors.
• Medication Errors – Incorrect dosages or harmful medications administered to the mother during labor.
• Failure to Detect Maternal Infections or Conditions – Conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia left untreated can harm the baby.
• Prolonged Labor Mismanagement – Allowing labor to continue too long without proper intervention.

In these cases, medical professionals may be held legally responsible for the harm caused.

Why Hire a Bristol County Birth Injury Lawyer?

Navigating a birth injury claim is highly complex. Hospitals and insurance companies often have powerful legal teams working to deny responsibility. Hiring a knowledgeable Bristol County birth injury lawyer gives you an advocate who understands Rhode Island medical malpractice laws and can build a strong case on your behalf.

At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we:

• Investigate medical records and evidence of negligence
• Consult with leading medical experts
• Assess the full extent of long-term care costs for your child
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
• Take your case to trial if necessary

Our goal is to help your family recover financial compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, lost future earnings, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Birth Injury FAQs

How do I know if my child’s injury was caused by medical negligence?

If your child has been diagnosed with a birth-related condition, a medical review by experts and legal professionals can help determine whether the injury could have been prevented.

What is the statute of limitations for birth injury claims in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, medical malpractice cases generally must be filed within three years of the injury or discovery of the injury. However, exceptions may apply in birth injury cases, so it is important to consult a lawyer promptly.

Can I recover compensation for future medical costs?

Yes. Compensation may cover both current and future expenses, including surgeries, therapies, mobility equipment, and in-home care.

Do I need to pay upfront for a lawyer?

No. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for your family.

Will going to court be necessary?

Not always. Many birth injury cases are resolved through negotiation. However, if a fair settlement is not offered, we are prepared to take your case to trial.

Contact a Bristol County Birth Injury Lawyer Today

A birth injury can change your family’s life forever. While no amount of money can undo the harm, holding negligent medical providers accountable can ease the financial burden and ensure your child has access to the care they need. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we are proud to advocate for families throughout Bristol County. 

Contact Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. for a free consultation.