Get Legal Representation from the Top Child Injury Attorneys in New York at Shalom Law
The safety and well-being of children are paramount, yet accidents can occur, leading to severe injuries with lasting effects. In a bustling city like New York, children face numerous risks from everyday activities such as commuting to school, playing in parks, and participating in sports. At Shalom Law, our dedicated child injury attorneys in New York, understand the unique challenges these cases present and are committed to helping families secure the compensation they deserve. Serving clients across Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and parts of Upstate New York, we offer compassionate and expert legal representation tailored to the needs of injured children and their families.
Facts and Statistics
According to the National Library of Medicine, every hour a child in the United States dies from an unintentional injury. For each death, there are 29 hospitalizations and nearly 1,000 emergency department visits. In total, about 1 in 5 child deaths is a result of an unintentional injury. Understanding these statistics highlights the critical need for legal intervention in cases of birth injuries caused by medical malpractice.
- Prevalence: Unintentional injuries are a leading cause of emergency department visits among children.
- Impact: These injuries can result in long-term disabilities, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens for families.
- Legal Recourse: Families have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages related to their child’s injury.
Common Causes of Child Injuries
Child injuries can occur in a variety of ways, often involving elements of negligence or unsafe conditions. Recognizing these common causes helps in understanding how these incidents happen and who may be held responsible.
Car Accidents
- Passenger Injuries: Children are vulnerable to injuries as passengers in vehicles.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Children are at risk when crossing streets or playing near traffic.
Fall Accidents
- Slips and Falls: Slippery or uneven surfaces can lead to significant injuries.
- Falls from Heights: Accidents involving playground equipment or stairs can cause serious harm.
School Accidents
- Inadequate Supervision: Lack of proper supervision can lead to various injuries.
- Unsafe Conditions: Poorly maintained school facilities can pose risks to children.
Dog Bites
- Animal Attacks: Children are often victims of dog bites, which can lead to physical and emotional trauma.
Playground Injuries
- Faulty Equipment: Malfunctioning playground equipment can cause injuries.
- Unsafe Play Areas: Poorly designed or maintained playgrounds increase the risk of accidents.
Sports Injuries
- Lack of Proper Gear: Inadequate protective equipment can lead to injuries.
- Insufficient Supervision: Poor oversight during sports activities can result in accidents.
Medical Malpractice
- Errors in Treatment: Mistakes during medical procedures or treatments can severely impact children’s health.
What Injuries Can Children Sustain in an Accident?
Children can suffer a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe and life-altering conditions. Understanding these injuries is crucial for seeking appropriate medical care and legal redress.
- Fractures and Broken Bones
Common in falls and car accidents, these injuries can require extensive treatment. - Head Injuries
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can affect cognitive development and overall health. - Cuts and Bruises
While often minor, these injuries can sometimes indicate more serious underlying issues. - Burns
Caused by fire, chemicals, or hot liquids, burns can result in significant pain and long-term damage. - Spinal Injuries
Injuries to the spine can lead to mobility issues or paralysis. - Emotional Trauma
Accidents can leave lasting psychological effects, including anxiety and PTSD. - Internal Injuries
Impact injuries can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, which might not be immediately apparent.
Steps to Take After a Child Injury
Taking the right steps after a child injury can help ensure their safety and protect your legal rights.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Ensure that your child receives prompt and appropriate medical care. - Document the Incident
Take photos of the accident scene and your child’s injuries, and keep detailed records of all medical treatments and related expenses. - Gather Witness Information
Collect contact details from anyone who witnessed the accident. - Report the Accident
Notify the appropriate authority, whether it’s the school, business, or police. - Keep Records
Save all medical records, bills, and any correspondence related to the incident. - Avoid Settlement Offers
Do not accept offers from insurance companies without consulting a lawyer. - Consult a Child Injury Attorney
Contact Shalom Law for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
Challenges in Child Injury Cases
Child injury cases present unique challenges due to the specific legal protections for children and the complexity of assessing long-term impacts.
- Comparative Negligence: Defendants may argue that the child was partly responsible for their injury.
- Assumption of Risk: Claims that the child or parent accepted the risk of injury by participating in certain activities.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Defendants might suggest that the injuries were not caused by the accident but by previous conditions.
- Statute of Limitations: Ensuring the claim is filed within New York’s time limits for personal injury cases is crucial.
- Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance companies often try to minimize compensation. Legal representation can help counter these strategies.
How Shalom Law Can Help You
At Shalom Law, our dedicated child injury attorneys provide comprehensive legal support tailored to the needs of injured children and their families. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Thorough Investigation
We gather all relevant evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. - Personalized Legal Strategy
We develop a tailored legal strategy to address the unique circumstances of your case. - Aggressive Representation
Our child injury attorneys strive to secure a fair settlement that covers all damages, including medical expenses and future care costs. - Court Advocacy
If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate passionately on your behalf. - Ongoing Support and Communication
We prioritize keeping you informed and involved throughout the legal process, offering compassionate support and guidance.
By choosing Shalom Law, you are choosing a top personal injury firm committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Visit our Personal Injury Law page for more information on how we can assist you.
Shalom Law Will Fight For You
If your child has been injured due to an accident or negligence, you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Shalom Law is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need. Our experienced child injury attorneys in New York, are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve and ensuring your child’s rights are protected. Contact us today at (718) 971-9474 for a free consultation. Let us help you through this difficult time so you can focus on your child’s recovery.
Child Injuries FAQ
What are common causes of child injuries?
Common causes include car accidents, falls, school accidents, dog bites, playground injuries, sports injuries, and medical malpractice.
What should I do if my child is injured?
Seek immediate medical attention, document the incident, gather witness information, report the accident, keep records, avoid settlement offers, and consult a child injury attorney.
Can I file a claim against a school for my child’s injury?
Yes, if the injury resulted from negligence or unsafe conditions at the school, you may have grounds for a claim.
What types of compensation can I receive for my child’s injury?
Compensation can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, educational needs, and future earning potential.
How long do I have to file a child injury claim in New York?
The statute of limitations for filing a child injury claim in New York typically allows more time for minors, but it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly.
How can Shalom Law help with my child’s injury case?
Shalom Law will investigate the case, gather evidence, consult with experts, handle all legal paperwork, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if necessary.
What are the challenges in child injury cases?
Challenges include proving negligence, overcoming defenses like comparative negligence and assumption of risk, managing the statute of limitations, and dealing with insurance company tactics.
Can I still pursue a claim if my child’s injury was partially their fault?
Yes, New York’s comparative negligence law allows you to pursue compensation even if your child is partially at fault.