Baby Carrier Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Baby Carrier Lawsuit Overview

Baby carrier lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers for designing products that may cause developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in infants. The primary allegations claim these carriers position babies’ legs improperly, increasing the risk of hip joint malformation. Recent studies have found that infants swaddled in certain carriers face an elevated risk of DDH compared to those carried in ergonomic designs. Multiple products have been identified as potentially problematic by medical professionals.

Understanding Baby Hip Dysplasia & Instability: Mayo Clinic Video

Latest Baby Carrier Lawsuit Updates

As of early 2025 – The Products Liability Litigation Group is accepting new baby carrier hip dysplasia injury cases nationwide, representing families whose children developed hip problems after using carriers that fail to support ergonomic hip positioning.

November 20, 2024 – Ensuring proper usage and adherence to safety guidelines, as outlined by child safety experts, is crucial in preventing accidents and potential legal actions related to baby carriers.​

August 30, 2024 – Recent legal actions, such as Tushbaby’s lawsuit against counterfeiters, underscore the importance of purchasing baby carriers from reputable sources to ensure product authenticity and safety.​

In 2023 – Research continues to reinforce the link between improper baby carrying positions and developmental hip dysplasia, with medical experts recommending carriers supporting the “M” position (hips flexed, thighs apart) for healthy hip development.

Medical Research and Case Reports

According to medical research and case reports, baby carriers that restrict proper hip positioning (legs extended and together) are associated with:

• An increased risk of developmental hip dysplasia when used improperly during the first 6 months of life, though no specific percentage (e.g., 28%) is confirmed by research
• Approximately 1-2 per 1,000 infants require treatment for hip dysplasia, with improper carrying methods identified as a preventable risk factor contributing to its development
• Numerous reports of hip development issues potentially linked to baby carriers have been noted in the past 5 years, though an exact count (e.g., over 500) is not publicly confirmed
• The risk of DDH may be significantly higher in infants carried improperly compared to those in ergonomic positions, though a specific increase (e.g., 4 times) lacks direct evidence

Baby Carrier Injuries & Side Effects

Baby carriers that don’t position infants’ legs in the recommended “M” or “frog-leg” position can lead to several serious hip conditions:

• Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH): Improper formation of the hip socket, ranging from mild instability to complete dislocation
• Avascular Necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the hip bone, causing tissue death
• Hip Dislocation: Complete separation of the ball from the hip socket
• Antalgic Gait: Abnormal walking pattern developed as compensation for hip pain
• Long-term Mobility Issues: Including early-onset arthritis and potential need for hip replacement

Do You Qualify for a Baby Carrier Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Baby Carrier lawsuit if:

• Your child used one of the listed baby carriers (Infantino, Babybjörn, Evenflo Snugli, Flip Front2Back, Graco, Chicco, etc.) during their first 12 months of life
• Your child developed hip dysplasia or other hip injuries after using the carrier
• The hip injury required medical treatment
• Your child is still under 18 years of age
• Your child was not born before 32 weeks (10 weeks premature)
• Your child was not born via a breech delivery (breech C-section is okay)
• The injury was not the result of a traumatic fall or dropping

Evidence Required for a Baby Carrier Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

• Medical records documenting the hip condition diagnosis
• Proof of baby carrier purchase (receipts, registration, photos)
• Medical documentation linking the hip injury to carrier use
• Treatment records for the hip injury

Damages You Can Recover

Successful baby carrier lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment and surgery
• Future medical costs including potential hip replacement
• Pain and suffering experienced by your child
• Long-term care if mobility is permanently affected
• Lost future income if the condition causes disability

Baby Carrier Recall Information

As of early 2025, no widespread recalls specifically for hip dysplasia risks have been issued for major baby carrier brands. However, several medical organizations including the International Hip Dysplasia Institute have issued warnings about carriers that don’t support proper hip positioning.

Statute of Limitations for Baby Carrier Lawsuits

The time limit to file a baby carrier lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from one to three years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the injury. Since these cases involve minors, many states extend the statute of limitations until the child reaches adulthood.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame.

Related article: Infant Sling Carrier Lawsuit

FAQs

1. How do baby carriers contribute to hip dysplasia?

Certain baby carriers position the infant’s legs together or hanging straight down, rather than in the recommended “M” or “frog-leg” position. This positioning can place pressure on developing hip joints and interfere with their proper formation, potentially leading to developmental dysplasia of the hip.

2. What are the symptoms of hip dysplasia in babies?

Symptoms may include uneven leg length, leg turning outward, uneven skin folds on thighs or buttocks, wider-than-normal space between legs, limited hip movement, or an audible “click” when moving the hip [1].

3. How is baby hip dysplasia treated?

Treatment varies based on severity and age but often includes a Pavlik harness for infants under 6 months, which holds the ball of the joint in its socket for several months. More severe cases may require closed reduction procedures, casting, or surgery.

4. Can hip dysplasia be prevented?

Using ergonomic baby carriers that position the baby’s legs in an “M” shape, with knees higher than buttocks and legs spread around the caregiver’s torso, can significantly reduce the risk of hip dysplasia.

5. Which baby carriers are considered safe for hip development?

Carriers certified as “hip-healthy” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute position babies with well-supported thighs, knees higher than buttocks, and legs spread around the caregiver’s torso.

6. What compensation can be sought in a baby carrier lawsuit?

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, costs for corrective procedures, pain and suffering, long-term care costs, and potentially punitive damages if manufacturer negligence is proven.

7. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a baby carrier lawsuit?

Most product liability attorneys, including Schmidt&Clark, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. Attorneys only receive payment if they win your case.

8. How long does a baby carrier lawsuit typically take?

The time frame varies significantly based on case complexity, but most product liability cases take between one and three years to resolve.

9. Can I still file a lawsuit if my child’s hip dysplasia was diagnosed years ago?

Possibly. The statute of limitations for minors is extended in many states, but it’s essential to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to evaluate your specific situation.

10. Are class actions being formed for baby carrier hip dysplasia cases?

Currently, most baby carrier hip dysplasia cases are being handled as individual lawsuits rather than class actions, allowing for compensation based on each child’s specific injuries and circumstances.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for baby carrier injuries. Depending on your state, you may have as little as one year from diagnosis to file a claim.

The Products Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt&Clark offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case

If your child developed hip dysplasia after being carried in a baby carrier, don’t delay. Our experienced team is handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury cases in all 50 states.

[START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW NOW]

Reference:

[1] https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip