Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), also known as Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), is a severe and preventable form of child abuse. It occurs when an infant or young child is violently shaken, causing the brain to move within the skull. This movement can lead to devastating injuries, including brain damage, blindness, paralysis, or even death. Raising awareness about SBS is crucial to preventing these tragic incidents and protecting vulnerable children. For families affected by SBS due to violent crime, understanding legal options and seeking rightful compensation is essential.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Victims
If your child has suffered from Shaken Baby Syndrome due to violent crime or abuse, you may be entitled to compensation. The legal system recognises the devastating impact of such cases, and victims have the right to pursue justice and financial support to cover medical expenses, long-term care, and emotional suffering.
GLP Solicitors, with over 50 years of experience, specialises in handling claims related to SBS. Our legal team understands the complexities of these cases and is committed to securing the maximum compensation for affected families. We navigate the claims process on your behalf, ensuring that justice is served and that you receive the financial support you deserve.
Causes and Risk Factors
Shaken Baby Syndrome often results from a caregiver’s frustration, typically due to prolonged crying or difficulty soothing a baby. The risk increases in situations involving:
- Stress and lack of parental support
- Sleep deprivation
- Young or inexperienced caregivers
- Substance abuse
- Domestic violence
Many cases of SBS occur when an overwhelmed parent or caregiver loses control, shaking the infant in a misguided attempt to quiet them. However, it’s essential to understand that shaking a baby, even for a few seconds, can cause irreparable harm.
Symptoms and Consequences
The effects of SBS can range from mild to severe, with some symptoms appearing immediately and others developing over time. Common signs include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Extreme irritability or lethargy
- Poor feeding
- Coma or unresponsiveness
Injuries from SBS can lead to lifelong disabilities, including:
- Cognitive impairments
- Vision or hearing loss
- Behavioural issues
- Developmental delays
- Motor dysfunction or paralysis
Unfortunately, many cases of SBS are fatal, highlighting the urgency of early intervention and prevention.
Prevention and Awareness
Preventing SBS requires education, support, and community involvement. Here are some key strategies:
- Educate caregivers – Parents, babysitters, and childcare workers should be informed about the dangers of shaking a baby and appropriate ways to soothe an infant.
- Encourage coping techniques – If a baby won’t stop crying, caregivers should take deep breaths, put the baby in a safe place, and step away for a few moments to regain composure.
- Provide parental support – Family, friends, and community organisations can offer help, whether through babysitting, parenting classes, or emotional support.
- Promote public awareness – Hospitals, paediatricians, and advocacy groups play a vital role in spreading information about SBS and its consequences.
- Strengthen laws and policies – Child protection laws should reinforce the importance of preventing child abuse and holding offenders accountable.
Why Choose GLP Solicitors?
GLP Solicitors is renowned for its expertise in handling claims related to Shaken Baby Syndrome, an area where the stakes are exceptionally high, and the emotional toll on families is profound. With more than 50 years of experience dealing with these kinds of claims, our team provides compassionate legal support while aggressively pursuing justice for affected families.
We understand the devastating impact SBS has on victims and their loved ones, and we are dedicated to securing the compensation and resources necessary for recovery. If your child has suffered due to SBS, contact GLP Solicitors today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you take the next step towards justice and financial support.
