Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor’s or other health professional’s negligence leads to injury or death.
Despite the education and experience doctors have, they still make mistakes. Unfortunately, these mistakes can be devastating for patients. If you’re a victim of medical malpractice, filing a lawsuit is the best way to recover damages and receive compensation for pain and suffering that would not have occurred otherwise.
Family members who lose loved ones due to an action or inaction by a medical professional might be eligible to take legal action through a wrongful death lawsuit. The same is true if you or a loved one suffers an injury or illness while living in a nursing home or receiving care at a military or VA hospital.
What is Considered Medical Malpractice?
Not all medical mishaps qualify as malpractice. However, there are several things, done either intentionally or unintentionally, that do qualify as medical malpractice.
An injury or illness in and of itself does not constitute medical malpractice. In order for a medical professional to have committed malpractice, he or she must have failed to make a reasonable decision based on the accepted standards within that particular field.
For instance, if you were given a prescription for blood pressure medication, but none of your medical examinations ever included a blood pressure test, it could be a case of medical malpractice.
If you are currently or were previously under the care of a medical professional, and any of the following occurs, you could be eligible to file a medical malpractice lawsuit:
- Delayed or improper treatment
- Emergency room error
- Surgical errors
- Pharmaceutical errors
- Birth injury
- Hospital negligence
- Failure to diagnose
Proving medical malpractice is a difficult challenge. If you suspect you suffered injuries or an illness, or a medical condition worsened because of a health professional’s negligence, you should contact an experienced attorney.
Is there a Statute of Limitations on Medical Malpractice?
Yes.
Unfortunately, you have a limited time in which to take action in a medical malpractice case. Even if you are currently focused on your health and healing, you need to consider legal action. Otherwise, you could lose your opportunity for compensation.
The sooner you contact an attorney the better. It takes time to gather evidence and build a strong case in your favor. You’ll stand a better chance of receiving compensation if we are able to act fast on your behalf.
Were You a Victim?
If you have been injured because of a doctor’s or other medical professional’s negligence, we can help. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys understands the devastation of putting your trust in a doctor only to end up worse off than when you sought treatment.
If you’re a victim of medical malpractice, contact us to discuss your case. To schedule a consultation or learn more about your options as a victim, call us at (813) 337-7798.
