Medical Malpractice Compensation

Medical errors are a leading cause of deaths and injuries in the United States. Patients who have been injured by a health professional could be entitled for a substantial amount of compensation.

Economic damages, also called special damages, address the financial losses suffered by the victim. They cover past and future medical expenses, lost income, and more.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are a way to compensate you for any financial losses associated with your injury. This includes medical bills already paid and future care needed. You can also claim economic damages for lost earnings, if your injuries make it impossible to work.

Non-economic damages, often called general damages, are not as tangible and are harder to quantify in terms of dollar value. They may include your physical pain and suffering, a reduction in your quality of life, or emotional distress. Your lawyer can help you prove these losses using expert financial analysts and witness testimony. Other evidence, such as medical records and other documentation can also be considered, including medical records.

The first known case of medical malpractice was Stratton the case of Stratton v. Swanlond in 1374, which established the foundation of breach of duty between a doctor and the patient. It also was the first medical malpractice lawsuit to award damages to the plaintiff.

A victim may be entitled to survival damages that cover the length of time after the malpractice was discovered up to the point of the time of death. These damages may include medical expenses and income loss as well as non-economic damages such as mental anguish, disfigurement, or loss of enjoyment living.

Other damages are possible in the event that a doctor mistakes in diagnosing or performing unnecessary procedures. If the actions of your doctor are particularly egregious for example, when they perform unnecessary surgeries for profit or for their own sexual pleasure, punitive damages can be awarded.

In addition to the financial compensation mentioned earlier, a court can give compensation for the cost of any alternative treatment that would be needed if it weren't because of the medical malpractice lawyers negligence. This might have included a less risky surgical procedure, or a different course of treatment that could have potentially prevented your injuries.

Medical Malpractice Caps

As the number of malpractice claims was increasing, a lot of states passed legislation that limits damages in malpractice cases. These limits limit the amount of money you could receive from a jury when your claim is deemed excessive or unreasonable.

The majority of states limit general and special damages. However, some states only limit non-economic damages. Whatever the number of caps, you will require compelling and solid evidence in order to win your medical malpractice claim.

If you've been a victim of medical malpractice, call us anytime to set up an initial consultation for free. Our experienced lawyers can help you determine the value of your claim and assist you negotiate a fair settlement, or a favorable verdict. We will protect your rights if your case goes to the court. Contact us at our San Diego or Phoenix offices or fill out our online form. We handle all kinds of medical malpractice law firms malpractice cases throughout the United States. Our firm is committed to assisting clients in obtaining maximum compensation for their injuries. We represent patients injured by medical negligence in California, Arizona, Washington, Oregon, Illinois, Texas, and Tennessee. We are able to travel to clients office or homes.