A birth injury can change a family’s life in an instant. Some injuries heal quickly. Others cause lifelong challenges like cerebral palsy or brain damage. Families often face high emotional stress and serious financial pressure. Understanding these costs helps parents plan for the future and find the right support.
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Why are lifetime care costs high?
Children with severe injuries often need medical help for decades. Costs include doctor visits, surgeries and medication. Families also pay for equipment such as wheelchairs, braces and communication tools. As children grow, families must often replace these items.
In Arizona, state programs can help cover some of these expenses:
- Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS): Helps with basic medical bills
- Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP): Provides therapy for children from birth to age 3
- Public Schools: Schools provide special education and treatment under federal law.
Even with these programs, families often pay for private care out of pocket. For severe injuries, lifetime costs can reach several million dollars.
Are there legal protections for Arizona families?
Arizona law has specific rules that affect birth injury cases. Unlike many other states, the Arizona Constitution forbids any limit on the amount of money a family can receive for personal injuries. This means families can seek the full amount needed to cover multi-million dollar care plans without a state cap or limit.
However, the legal process has strict steps. Under Arizona law, a family must usually provide an expert opinion affidavit from a qualified doctor early in the case. This document proves that the medical care fell below professional standards.
Finding legal support
Facing these costs can feel overwhelming. Many parents talk to an attorney who specializes in Arizona injury law. A legal consultation can help you understand your rights and the mandatory steps for filing a claim. While legal action isn’t right for everyone, having clear information helps parents make the best decisions for their child’s future.
At Harris Powers & Cunningham, we provide a free initial consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. This means you owe us nothing if you are not awarded compensation from your claim. You can call 602-271-9344 or send us an email to request your free consultation about your birth injury claim.