Cranston Brachial Plexus Injury Attorney

Holding Healthcare Providers Liable for Brachial Plexus Injuries

If you or your child has suffered a brachial plexus injury, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. These injuries often result from medical malpractice during childbirth, surgical errors, or traumatic accidents — and they can lead to lifelong disability. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., our experienced legal team is committed to helping victims and their families seek justice and recover the compensation they deserve.

Our firm understands the complex medical and legal issues surrounding brachial plexus injuries, and we will fight to hold negligent parties accountable while guiding you through every step of the legal process.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation with a dedicated Cranston brachial plexus injury lawyer

What is a Brachial Plexus Injury?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originates in the neck and travels through the shoulder, arm, and hand. These nerves control movement and sensation in the upper limbs.

A brachial plexus injury occurs when these nerves are stretched, compressed, or torn. This can result in pain, weakness, numbness, and even paralysis of the shoulder, arm, or hand.

In newborns, brachial plexus injuries are often caused by complications during delivery — for example, excessive pulling on the baby’s shoulders or improper use of delivery instruments. In adults, these injuries may occur due to traumatic accidents or surgical mistakes.

Common Brachial Plexus Injuries

Brachial plexus injuries vary in severity depending on the type and extent of nerve damage. Common types include:

Neuropraxia

The mildest form of injury, neuropraxia occurs when the nerve is stretched but not torn. Symptoms usually improve over weeks or months.

Neuroma

Scar tissue develops around the injured nerve, putting pressure on it and interfering with nerve signals. Some recovery may be possible, but lasting impairment is common.

Rupture

A rupture involves the nerve being torn but not separated from the spinal cord. Surgery is often required, and full recovery is rare.

Avulsion

The most severe type, an avulsion occurs when the nerve is completely torn away from the spinal cord. This is irreversible and can cause permanent paralysis.

Erb’s Palsy

A specific type of brachial plexus injury affecting the upper arm, often caused during childbirth. Symptoms include weakness or loss of motion in the arm.

Medical Malpractice Causing Brachial Plexus Injuries

In many cases, brachial plexus injuries are preventable and result from medical negligence. Common malpractice-related causes include:

• Excessive force during delivery – Pulling too hard on a newborn’s head, neck, or shoulders during labor.
• Failure to recognize shoulder dystocia – Not identifying and properly addressing a condition where the baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone.
• Improper use of delivery tools – Misuse of forceps or vacuum extractors, causing nerve damage.
• Delayed C-section – Not performing a timely cesarean section when labor complications arise.
• Surgical errors – In adults, brachial plexus injuries can result from mistakes during neck, shoulder, or chest surgery.

If your injury was caused by medical negligence, a skilled Cranston brachial plexus injury attorney from Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. can investigate your case, gather medical expert testimony, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Short- & Long-Term Effects of Brachial Plexus Injuries

The consequences of a brachial plexus injury can be life-altering, ranging from temporary discomfort to lifelong disability.

Short-Term Effects

• Pain, tingling, or burning sensations
• Weakness or loss of grip strength
• Limited range of motion in the arm or shoulder
• Temporary numbness

Long-Term Effects

• Permanent paralysis of the arm or hand
• Chronic pain and nerve damage
• Muscle atrophy (wasting)
• Loss of independence in daily activities
• Emotional and psychological distress

These injuries often require extensive medical care, including physical therapy, nerve grafts, or reconstructive surgeries — all of which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Brachial Plexus Injury Claim FAQs

How do I know if I have a valid brachial plexus injury claim?

If your injury was caused by medical negligence, a defective product, or another party’s wrongful actions, you may have grounds for a claim. An attorney can review your medical records and circumstances to determine eligibility.

What compensation can I recover?

You may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Adaptive equipment and home modifications

Is there a time limit for filing a claim in Rhode Island?

Yes. Rhode Island law sets strict deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury and medical malpractice claims. In most cases, you have three years from the date of injury — but exceptions exist, especially for birth injury cases. Acting quickly is essential to preserve your rights.

Do I need an attorney?

Brachial plexus injury cases often involve complex medical evidence and expert testimony. An experienced lawyer ensures your claim is properly documented, deadlines are met, and your best interests are represented against insurance companies or hospital legal teams.

Why Choose Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C.?

At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we provide compassionate and aggressive legal representation for brachial plexus injury victims in Cranston, RI. Our firm offers:

• Extensive experience in medical malpractice and birth injury cases
• Access to top medical experts for testimony and case evaluation
• Personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique situation
• No upfront fees – we work on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we win

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial burden these injuries bring, and we are committed to helping you secure the resources you need to move forward.

Reach out to Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. today at (401) 200-4059.