A Pennsylvania jury has awarded the family of a seven-year old boy $20.5 million in a medical malpractice lawsuit. It is the largest single medical malpractice verdict in northeastern Pennsylvania.

How negligence affected a child's life

According to news reports, Laura White went to a medical center as she suspected that something was wrong with her unborn child. She was hooked up to fetal monitoring strips which indicated that her suspicions were correct - the child was not receiving an adequate supply of oxygen. She was treated by Dr. Behlke. Although not her primary obstetrician, she was treated by Dr. Behlke. Unfortunately, his negligence, and that of the medical facility, forever affected the child's life and those of his family.

Although Dr. Behlke allegedly knew about White's immediate medical needs, he waited two hours before treating her. He then decided to perform a Cesarean ("C") section, but too much damage had been done due to the lapse of time. White's son, Cody, was born mentally retarded, has cerebral palsy, is nearly totally blind and cannot walk or talk. Although now seven, he allegedly functions on the level of a six to nine month old.

His family sued the doctor and the medical facility for Cody's birth injuries. A jury found that the doctor was 60% liable for Cody's injuries and the medical facility was 40% liable. They awarded the family $20.5 million. Approximately two million dollars will go towards immediate health care and the remainder will be put into a trust which Cody will receive upon turning 18.

Medical malpractice happens every day

It's a fact of life; medical malpractice happens every day. Some cases, such as Cody's, are clear. However, other cases may be a bit more subtle and responsibility for someone's injuries may be more difficult to ascertain - especially in situations where several doctors, nurses, hospitals or medical facilities are involved. If you've been injured due to someone's negligence, contact an experienced Pennsylvania medical malpractice attorney to discuss your situation and determine what options are available to you. Consultations are free, without obligation and are strictly confidential.