Who Can File A Medical Malpractice Suit
A medical malpractice suit is a lawsuit that is filed when a patient is harmed by a medical professional through negligence or incompetence on the part of the medical professional. The laws regarding medical malpractice lawsuits vary from state to state, but there are several common laws that apply to most malpractice cases throughout the country. Specifically, the laws regarding who can file a medical malpractice suit are largely the same from one state to the next.
Requirements for a Medical Malpractice Claim
Generally speaking, anybody who has been harmed by a medical professional due to that professional’s negligence or incompetence can file a medical malpractice claim, as long as there was a doctor-patient relationship in place. For most people, the largest challenge is in proving that medical malpractice has actually occurred. Complications can arise with any medical procedure, and it is very possible that one of these complications may cause issues similar to what may be seen in a medical malpractice case. A good Pittsburgh medical malpractice attorney will be able to help you determine if any issues you’ve faced were the result of malpractice.
In order to sue for medical malpractice, you must determine that an injury or illness was directly caused by a medical professional’s action or inaction. This will require you to gather all relevant medical records, medical bills, and evidence of lost work or earning capacity. A medical expert can also help determine whether you’ve suffered considerable mental anguish or physical pain as a result of the malpractice. If you are able to provide this documentation and you can prove that your problems were caused by the negligence or incompetence of a medical professional, you can file a malpractice claim. It is also important to understand your state’s statute of limitations. If you would like to learn more about statute of limitations and how it may affect your lawsuit, make sure to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney.
You may also file a medical malpractice claim if you believe that the recent death of a loved one was the result of malpractice. These cases work much like those filed by the injured party. To successfully sue for malpractice that has resulted in the death of a loved one, you must prove that the malpractice was the cause of death and that it resulted in mental anguish, lost wages, and other issues that have directly affected your life. A Pittsburgh medical malpractice attorney will help determine if you meet those requirements and can inform you of your options.
Representation by GPW Law
Filing a medical malpractice claim is never an easy process, but the attorneys at GPW Law will fight for your rights. GPW Law has over 30 years of experience representing clients in medical malpractice cases. Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation.
