This History Behind Medical Malpractice Case Can Haunt You Forever

Medical Malpractice Compensation

Medical errors are one of the leading causes of injuries and death in the United States. Patients who have suffered injury due to a medical malpractice law firms professional may be entitled for a substantial amount of compensation.

Economic damages, also referred as special damages, pay for a victim's financial losses. This covers past and future medical expenses, lost income and more.

Economic Damages

Economic damages pay for the financial burdens associated with your injury, such as medical malpractice lawsuit care that has already been paid for and future care that is needed. They may also cover lost earnings if injuries prevent you from working, and other financial losses documented.

Non-economic damages, also called general damages, are less tangible and difficult to quantify in terms of dollar value. These damages can include physical discomfort and pain as well as a decline in the quality of life or emotional distress. Your lawyer will help you demonstrate these losses by using testimony from witnesses experts, financial analysts who are experts, and other evidence, like medical documents and evidence of your injuries.

Stratton in v. Swanlond, a case from 1374 that established the premise of medical malpractice which was a breach in obligation between a doctor and the patient. It was also the first medical malpractice lawsuit to award damages to a plaintiff.

Surviving damages are available to victims during the period from the time of the accident until their death. These damages can include medical costs and lost income, as well as non-economic losses like mental anguish loss of enjoyment of life or disfigurement.

Other damages can be awarded in the event that a doctor mistakes in diagnosing or performing unnecessary procedures. Punitive damages can be awarded when the negligence of your doctor is especially egregious. For instance the case of a doctor who performs an unnecessary procedures to earn money or for sexual pleasure.

In addition to the monetary settlements mentioned above, a court can make a payment for the cost of any alternative treatment that would be required if not due to medical negligence. This could include a surgical procedure or a different course of treatment that could have prevented your injuries.

Medical Caps for Malpractice

As the number of malpractice claims increased, a number of states enacted legislation to limit damages in malpractice cases. Limits on damages limit the amount of you can collect from a jury if your claim is judged to be excessive or unreasonable.

Most states cap both general and special damages. However, some places only limit damages that are not economic. It is still necessary to be able to prove your case convincingly and with conviction to win your medical malpractice case regardless of the amount of caps.

Contact us to schedule a consultation if you have been victimized by medical negligence. Our skilled lawyers will assist you assess the value of your claim, and help you to pursue the most fair settlement or verdict. If your case is taken to trial, we'll defend your rights in court. Contact us at our San Diego or Phoenix offices or fill out our online form. We handle all types of medical malpractice cases throughout the United States. Our firm is dedicated to helping clients receive maximum compensation for their injuries. We represent victims of medical negligence in California, Arizona, Washington, Oregon, Illinois, Texas, and Tennessee. We are able to travel to meet clients at a location that is most convenient for them.