My son was born in Florida in 1986. He has multiple problems none of which are physically debilitating but none the less life-long and he will continue to need care. I have been told that the statute of limitations for birth injuries is 5 years in Florida. Is this true? Also he will be 18 years old this February. Is it too late to proceed with any legal action against the hospital? I had gone through the Volusia County Health Department for pre-natal care and was assigned a physician and hospital who were under contract with the County for their pre-natal program. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you.

It may be wise to have your specific factual situation analyzed by an attorney in your jurisdiction. And you should have this done IMMEDIATELY so that you don't lose important rights. Many lawyers offer a free or low-cost initial consultation just for the purpose of determining whether they can help you. Don't be afraid to contact them. Our Lead Counsel Panels at http://www.lawinfo.com/law/ are a great way to find a lawyer in your area on the internet. Best of luck!

I am sorry for your baby's medical problems. You need to consult a medical malpractice attorney in your state for guidance ASAP. He will arrange for medical expert review of your medical history. In Florida a medical malpractice action must be brought within two years from the date of the incident or from the date when the incident was or should have been discovered. Fla. Stat. Ann. § 95.11(4)(b) (West 1982 & Supp. 199. In no event may an action be commenced more than four years after the incident giving rise to the action except that this four-year period will not bar an action before the claimant's eighth birthday. Of the 4 million infants born annually in the United States about 3 to 5 percent are born with birth defects according to the March of Dimes. Both genetic and environmental factors can cause birth defects. However the causes of about 60 to 70 percent of birth defects currently are unknown which makes this type of malpractice difficult to pursue. I wish you and your son well.