In Florida, you have up to four years from the date of the incident to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. While this might seem like a long time, that period will pass quickly, and there will be many steps to complete within those four years. The first step is to know whether you really have cause to file a lawsuit against a caregiver. Here are four reasons why you might want to file a malpractice lawsuit:
1. Misdiagnosis of a Medical Condition
One of the most common issues relating to medical negligence is the misdiagnosis of a medical condition. When a caregiver misdiagnoses a patient, the true problem may worsen and impede recovery. One example might involve mistaking a life-threatening heart condition for acid reflux. When the patient suffers a disability or dies as a result of the doctor’s failure to treat the correct condition, there is cause for a medical malpractice claim.
2. Surgical Errors
While surgical errors are less likely, these incidents sometimes occur due to medical negligence. They are often the result of a surgeon who is fatigued or overworked. A surgical error can include anything from performing the wrong surgery to losing medical instruments inside a patient. To file a claim, the patient must be able to show that the surgical error caused them harm in some way.
3. Failure To Inform
Before beginning any treatment, your doctor should discuss the possible side effects or complications. This step is important to ensure you understand the potential adverse reactions you might experience from the treatment. For example, a patient with a heart condition won’t want to take a medication that increases the likelihood of a heart attack. If you have an adverse reaction to a treatment due to your doctor’s failure to inform, you should consult a medical malpractice attorney in Tamarac.
4. Childbirth Complications
Medical negligence lawyers also handle cases involving deaths that occur during childbirth. Although childbirth procedures have advanced considerably over time, there are still risks associated with this procedure. Some childbirth complications are unavoidable, and the doctor can’t be blamed in those instances. However, when disability or death occurs due to the doctor’s negligence, the family may be entitled to compensation to cover those damages.
Preparing To File a Claim
When you believe you have a good reason to file a medical malpractice claim, your next step should involve consulting a medical malpractice attorney in Tamarac. Prepare for the interview by collecting documentation that establishes your claim, such as medical records and billing statements.
Learn More When You Consult a Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you have concerns about the care you received from a caregiver, an initial consultation with Cameron Law Group can help. Our experienced medical negligence lawyers will evaluate your case when you contact us for a consultation today.
