The burden of proof in an Erb’s palsy case dictates that a plaintiff – in this case, the injured child’s parents – must prove his or her case based on evidence presented. Essentially, this means the victim must prove the doctor or hospital was at fault versus the doctor or hospital proving they were not at fault.
There is a significant burden of proof in a Florida birth injury and other medical malpractice claims. That is why many families choose to work with a Florida Erb’s Palsy attorney who understands birth injury laws in Florida.
Damages and Negligence: The Basic Elements of an Erb’s Palsy Case
Parents of an injured child must prove two things in an Erb’s palsy case: damages and negligence (or liability). First, there must be proof that a child sustained serious injury and damages. Second, there must be evidence that supports the assertion of negligence and doctor liability.
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(855) 529-0269The Standard of Care and the Burden of Proof in an Erb’s Palsy Case
A successful case must prove that a doctor or other medical professional violated the standard of care. This means the doctor acted in a way that differed from how another medical professional would have behaved in a similar situation.
The victim does not need to prove negligence beyond a reasonable doubt; rather, that the standard of care was most likely violated. This might include presenting evidence that shows the doctor was directly responsible for causing the injury. It also may mean proving that the Erb’s palsy and underlying nerve injury would not have occurred were it not for the doctor’s actions or inaction.
An attorney must establish a clear and compelling connection between the child’s injury and the doctor’s mistake. This requires substantial evidence and may necessitate lengthy investigations and witness testimony.
Examples of Negligence in an Erb’s Palsy Case
An attorney will investigate a victim’s case to determine if, how and when negligence occurred and who was responsible for the mistake.
Listed below are a few examples of how medical negligence can lead to Erb’s palsy:
- An obstetrician provides insufficient prenatal care that fails to diagnose or treat Erb’s palsy risk factors (including gestational diabetes, breech position and/or a larger-than-normal fetus).
- An obstetrician fails to discuss the need for caesarian or other birthing options with an at-risk mother.
- A delivery room doctor fails to perform an emergency c-section.
- A delivery room doctor fails to execute the necessary techniques or maneuvers to reposition safely and/or ease a baby out of the birth canal.
- A delivery room doctor exerts excessive force on the head, neck or shoulders of the baby during delivery.
A Florida Erb’s Palsy attorney can examine medical records, conduct witness and victim interviews, and consult medical experts to determine how and when the error occurred. This will provide important details about the evidence necessary to fulfill the burden of proof in an Erb’s palsy case.
For more information on Erb’s Palsy visit our Resource center for families dealing with Erb’s Palsy.
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