Pittsburgh Erb’s Palsy Lawyers

Has Your Infant Child Been Diagnosed with Erb's Palsy Caused by Negligence?

Erb's palsy is a birth injury that occurs when the brachial plexus (a bundle of nerves beneath the shoulder) is damaged during birth. While some cases of Erb's palsy are caused by complications during birth and are unavoidable, others are the result of medical malpractice.

If you think your child may have been injured due to negligent medical care, the attorneys at Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. are here to help. We understand the hardships facing children with Erb's palsy and are prepared to help you pursue fair and just compensation.

Contact us today online or by telephone at (844) 383-0565 to speak with an experienced Pittsburgh Erb's palsy attorney.

What is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s Palsy is a type of birth injury that affects the brachial plexus. This condition occurs when these nerves are stretched, torn, or damaged during childbirth. As a result, a newborn may experience weakness, loss of sensation, or partial paralysis in one arm.

Erb’s Palsy typically develops during difficult deliveries, especially when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone (a complication known as shoulder dystocia). If excessive force is used to free the baby, significant nerve damage can occur. While some children recover fully, others suffer permanent disabilities that affect their quality of life.

When Erb’s Palsy is caused by medical malpractice, your family may have the legal right to pursue compensation for the harm done.

Common Causes of Erb’s Palsy Caused by Medical Malpractice

Not every case of Erb’s Palsy is preventable, but many are the direct result of mistakes made by doctors, nurses, or other medical staff during pregnancy or delivery. Some of the most common examples of medical negligence that can lead to Erb’s Palsy include:

• Improper handling of shoulder dystocia: When a baby’s shoulder becomes lodged against the mother’s pelvis, specific medical maneuvers must be used to safely deliver the child. If a healthcare provider pulls too hard on the baby’s head or neck, it can severely damage the brachial plexus.
• Failure to recommend a C-section: If the baby is too large (fetal macrosomia) or other risk factors are present, a cesarean section may be the safest option. Neglecting to recommend or perform a C-section can increase the risk of traumatic delivery injuries.
• Excessive force or traction: Using too much force with hands or delivery instruments such as forceps or vacuum extractors can stretch or tear the nerves in the baby’s neck and shoulder.
• Poor prenatal monitoring: Doctors are responsible for identifying high-risk pregnancies. Failing to recognize complications and prepare for a difficult delivery can lead to preventable injuries.
• Lack of proper training or experience: A medical team lacking appropriate expertise in managing complicated births may make critical errors in decision-making and technique.

If any of these factors were involved in your child’s birth in Pittsburgh or anywhere in Pennsylvania, Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. can investigate your case and determine whether medical malpractice occurred.

Short- & Long-Term Impact of Erb’s Palsy

The effects of Erb’s Palsy can vary significantly from child to child. Some infants improve with therapy within months, while others experience lifelong impairment. Common short- and long-term impacts include:

Short-term effects:

• Weakness or limpness in one arm
• Limited movement in the shoulder, arm, or hand
• Abnormal arm positioning
• Difficulty gripping or lifting objects

Long-term complications:

• Permanent loss of function in the arm
• Chronic pain or muscle stiffness
• Abnormal arm growth and development
• Need for ongoing physical therapy
• Requirement for corrective surgery or nerve graft procedures
• Psychological and emotional challenges for the child

These limitations can affect a child’s independence, education, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life. Families often face substantial medical bills, therapy costs, and adaptive equipment expenses, which can accumulate over a lifetime.

Our Pittsburgh Erb’s Palsy lawyer at Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. will fight to secure compensation that accounts for both present and future needs.

Compensation in an Erb’s Palsy Claim

If medical malpractice caused your child’s Erb’s Palsy, your family may be entitled to recover compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Past and future medical treatment
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Surgical procedures
• Specialized equipment and assistive devices
• In-home care or support services
• Lost future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Reduced quality of life

Our goal is to secure a settlement or verdict that truly reflects the impact of the injury on your child and your family.

Erb’s Palsy FAQs

Is Erb’s Palsy always caused by medical malpractice?

No. Some cases occur despite proper care. However, many instances are the result of preventable mistakes. A thorough legal review is needed to determine fault.

Can Erb’s Palsy be cured?

Some children recover with physical therapy, but severe cases can result in permanent disability. Surgery may help improve function, but it does not always restore full mobility.

How long do I have to file a claim in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania has specific statutes of limitations for medical malpractice cases involving minors. It is important to contact a Pittsburgh Erb’s Palsy lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

What if my child is older and still suffering from Erb’s Palsy?

You may still have legal options. We can evaluate your case and determine whether your family is still eligible to file a claim.

How much does it cost to hire Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C.?

We typically work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

What evidence is needed to prove medical negligence in an Erb’s Palsy case?

To prove negligence, you’ll need medical records documenting the birth process, expert opinions from medical professionals, witness statements, and any evidence showing improper handling of delivery complications.

Do I need a lawyer to file an Erb’s Palsy claim?

Yes, having an experienced attorney is highly recommended. These cases require in-depth medical knowledge, expert testimony, and legal expertise to prove negligence. Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. specializes in birth injuries can handle the legal complexities, gather necessary evidence, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if needed. 

Discuss Your Claim During a Free Consultation

If you are considering filing a lawsuit, our attorneys will sit down with you free of charge to review your case and share their advice. Erb’s palsy can affect more than just medical costs. Your child should be able to receive the best treatment and assistance possible, and a lawsuit may make this possible. Ask our team about your options to learn more.

Was your child born with Erb's palsy due to a case of medical malpractice? Call us at (844) 383-0565 to speak with an experienced Pittsburgh attorney.