Riverside Shoulder Dystocia Lawyer – Bostwick & Peterson, LLP

At Bostwick & Peterson, LLP, we understand how devastating birth injuries can be, especially when they result from medical negligence. If your child suffered from shoulder dystocia due to a preventable medical error, you may have the right to pursue compensation. Our Riverside shoulder dystocia lawyers are dedicated to holding negligent medical professionals accountable and helping families secure the justice they deserve.

Contact us today at (951) 435-8229 for a free initial consultation.

What is Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia is a birth complication that occurs when a baby’s shoulders become lodged behind the mother’s pelvic bone during delivery. This can create a dangerous situation for both the infant and the mother, leading to severe injuries if not handled properly. When medical professionals fail to recognize or respond to this emergency appropriately, the consequences can be life-altering.

In many cases, shoulder dystocia can result in nerve damage, fractures, and oxygen deprivation, which may lead to conditions such as brachial plexus injuries, Erb’s palsy, Klumpke’s palsy, or even cerebral palsy. Proper prenatal care and skilled delivery techniques are crucial to preventing these complications.

Common Causes of Shoulder Dystocia

While shoulder dystocia is considered a delivery complication, it is often preventable. Medical professionals must assess risk factors and take necessary precautions to minimize the chances of this injury occurring. Some common causes of shoulder dystocia include:

• Improper Use of Delivery Tools – Forceps and vacuum extractors, if used incorrectly, can contribute to shoulder dystocia and birth injuries.
• Failure to Identify Risk Factors – Physicians should recognize warning signs such as maternal diabetes, excessive fetal weight (macrosomia), or a history of difficult deliveries.
• Delayed or Prolonged Labor – When labor is prolonged, medical professionals must take appropriate measures to prevent fetal distress and complications.
• Inadequate Maneuvers During Delivery – There are several established techniques, such as the McRoberts maneuver and suprapubic pressure, that can alleviate shoulder dystocia. Failure to execute these properly can lead to serious injuries.
• Failure to Perform a Timely C-Section – If risk factors are present, a doctor may need to recommend a cesarean section to prevent birth trauma.

If medical negligence played a role in your child’s shoulder dystocia, you may have a legal case against the responsible healthcare provider.

Who is Liable for Shoulder Dystocia Injuries?

Determining liability in a shoulder dystocia case requires a thorough investigation into the medical care provided during pregnancy and delivery. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Obstetricians & Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) – If an OB/GYN fails to recognize risk factors or properly handle delivery complications, they may be held accountable.
• Nurses & Medical Staff – Delivery room nurses and medical assistants play a critical role in assisting doctors during birth. If they fail to act appropriately, they may also be held liable.
• Hospitals & Birthing Centers – In some cases, hospitals or birthing centers may bear responsibility for failing to provide adequate training, maintaining proper protocols, or ensuring timely interventions.

How Our Firm Can Help You & Your Family

At Bostwick & Peterson, LLP, we have a long-standing history of successfully handling birth injury claims. If your child suffered an injury due to medical negligence, our experienced Riverside shoulder dystocia lawyers can:

• Conduct a Thorough Case Evaluation – We will review medical records, consult with experts, and determine whether malpractice occurred.
• Identify Responsible Parties – Our team will investigate who is liable and gather evidence to support your claim.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. We will aggressively negotiate to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
• Pursue Maximum Compensation – You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and long-term care needs.
• Take Your Case to Trial If Necessary – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to litigate your case in court.

Call (951) 435-8229 or contact us online today to schedule a free case review.