Whenever you seek treatment from a healthcare professional, you expect them to give you the utmost care you need and act within the recognized medical care standards. But sometimes, healthcare providers can make mistakes that can lead to life-changing or even deadly consequences.
Medical malpractice takes place when a doctor or other medical provider breaches their duty of care. But a breach of this duty alone cannot substantiate a medical malpractice claim. You need to show that the breach of duty resulted in serious or permanent injury. If you believe you are a victim, you need to explore legal options after medical malpractice and speak with a skilled lawyer who specializes in this case.
Who Can Bring a Medical Malpractice Claim
If you received treatment or underwent a medical procedure and received a different outcome from what was promised, you may have a medical malpractice case. But keep in mind that just because the medical treatment or procedure did not produce the expected results does not mean medical malpractice is involved. If you think you are a victim of medical malpractice, you must consult with a lawyer who can investigate your case.
Possible Compensation You May Receive
A life-altering injury or the passing of a family member can have devastating emotional and financial impacts. If the injury or death resulted from medical negligence, victims can seek different kinds of compensation such as the following:
- Compensatory damages. Compensatory or economic damages compensate you for the income and wages you lost, together with medical costs and expenses you incur due to the malpractice. Also, you may be able to recover damages for lost earning capacity decreased effectiveness at work, diminished advancement opportunities, and lost fringe benefits.
- Non-economic damages. These damages will compensate you for the physical and emotional harm you suffer as well as any ongoing suffering you endure.
- Punitive damages. You may be awarded these damages to punish the defendant for their malicious, wanton, or willful conduct. In Connecticut, there is a limit to the amount of punitive damages that can be awarded to you.
If medical errors lead to the victim’s death, the surviving loved ones can pursue a wrongful death claim. This claim lets them recover medical expenses, burial and funeral expenses, as well as loss of society, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support. A reliable attorney will help victims pursue the maximum amount of compensation they deserve.
