In the United States, the third leading cause of death is medical negligence, as revealed by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). In 2014, over $3.8 billion was spent in medical malpractice payouts all throughout the U.S.. These two facts are an alarming indication that medical malpractice occurs regularly.
Anyone can claim medical negligence, but only a knowledgeable and competent lawyer can help you receive a payout. He/she will be your secret weapon to prove that a hospital, medical facility, or health care provider such as a nurse, doctor, or aide made a mistake in diagnosing, treating, operating, or performing/non-performing other medical tasks.
If you or anyone you know has suffered from a medical-related mistake, here are 3 things you should know about medical negligence:
1) Diagnosis-related malpractice tops the list. Aside from errors in treatment or operation, diagnosis tops of the list of medical negligence claims. Majority of these cases lead to death, which is why the patient’s family will be the ones receiving payout should the claim be proven. A personal injury lawyer can help you through the steps involved in completing your evidence against the medical practitioner or facility.
2) Time limits matter. Medical malpractice cases have statues of limitations, which mean you can only legally bring the claim against the health care provider or hospital within a certain time period. Each state has its own limit when it comes to medical negligence claims, so make sure to seek legal guidance as soon as possible to avoid being forced of waiving your or your loved one’s rights to recover money from the injuries or untimely death.
3) Consider out-of-court settlements. Those who have no time or financial capability to fight a medical facility or professional could opt to settle their medical negligence claims out-of-court. Of course, the gravity of injury or damage done and evidence should be taken into account when going this route. A lawyer will review your case and advises you to seek a larger settlement if he/she deems you have a strong case.
Medical malpractice insurance companies reject a large percentage of claims. As such, it is important to have a qualified lawyer who will help you discuss your case, provide a realistic course of action, and fight the case for you. This is why finding the right attorney will be the key to turning your claim into a payout.
If you are in the Chicago area and you need advice with medical negligence claims, call Oak Lawn Medical Negligence lawyer Mary Ann Covone at (708) 246-49-11 for a free case evaluation.
Mary Ann Covone Attorney at Law is led by an Oak Lawn Medical Negligence Lawyer who personally handles each case. Her law firm has been fighting Personal Injury cases in the courtrooms of Cook, Lake, DuPage and Will counties for over 23 years.
