Meconium Aspiration and Your Legal Options in Illinois

 Posted on June 06, 2024 in Birth Injury

The birth of a child is typically a joyous occasion for parents. However, complications during delivery, like meconium aspiration, can turn into a distressing experience. If your newborn has suffered from meconium aspiration due to medical negligence, an Illinois lawyer can help you understand your legal options.

What is Meconium Aspiration?

Meconium is a newborn’s first bowel movement, typically passed after birth. In some cases, the baby may pass meconium while still in the womb, leading to a condition known as meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). When a baby inhales meconium-stained amniotic fluid, it can cause severe respiratory distress and lead to long-term complications.

Meconium aspiration can occur due to various factors. Some include prolonged labor, fetal distress, post-term pregnancy, and maternal health issues. Medical professionals are trained to promptly identify and manage meconium aspiration to minimize the risk of harm to the newborn.

When Medical Negligence Comes into Play

While not all cases of meconium aspiration are preventable, there are instances where medical negligence may have played a role. Examples of medical negligence in meconium aspiration cases may include:

• Failure to properly monitor fetal distress
• Delayed response to signs of meconium in the amniotic fluid
• Improper suctioning techniques during delivery
• Inadequate resuscitation efforts for the newborn

If your child has suffered harm because of medical negligence related to meconium aspiration, you may have grounds for a birth injury lawsuit in Illinois.

Protecting Your Child’s Rights

As a parent, you must advocate for your child’s rights and well-being. If you suspect that medical negligence contributed to your newborn’s meconium aspiration and subsequent complications, taking legal action can help ensure that your child receives the care and support he or she needs.

Under Illinois law, you may be entitled to pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to the birth injury
• Future medical care and therapy
• Pain and suffering endured by your child
• Lost wages if you need to take time off work to care for your child
• Disability accommodations for your child

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Illinois has a statute of limitations for filing a birth injury lawsuit. Generally, you have eight years from the date of the injury or four years from the date you discovered the injury to file a claim. However, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve important evidence.

Your birth injury attorney will thoroughly investigate your case, gather medical records and expert testimonies, and build a strong argument on your behalf. Your lawyer will also handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary.

Contact a Chicago, IL Birth Injury Attorney

When it comes to your child, you want to do anything to protect them, especially when he or she experiences something like meconium aspiration. With a Cook County, IL birth injury lawyer on your side, you can have a better chance of the outcome of your case. Call Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. at 312-462-4200 to schedule a free consultation.