If you are seeking recovery from medical malpractice, a Pasco County medical malpractice lawyer may be able to help you on your road to recovery. As an experienced personal injury attorney in the local area, they could advise you on what options you might have available moving forward. Many physicians have resourceful insurance companies and law firms at their disposal, meaning that it could be difficult to pursue compensation on your own. Reach out to an attorney today for legal aid.
An Overview of Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when a physician fails to uphold a reasonable standard of care and causes injury to their patient. It is similar to the concept of negligence that may arise in a car accident case when a driver fails to show reasonable care on the roads.
The Standard of Care
The ordinary standard of care imposed on a regular negligence suit states that people have a duty to act as a reasonably prudent person would under the circumstances. When a case deals with medical professionals, a higher standard of care is imposed. Doctors and nurses are required to carry out their duties with the same type and level of care that prudent health care professional would, with the same training and experience, under similar circumstances in that community.
General Elements of a Medical Malpractice Claim
To successfully bring a medical malpractice lawsuit, an injured patient in Pasco County would have to show the following:
- They were the doctor’s patient
- The doctor deviated from the standard of care and was negligent
- The doctor’s negligence caused the patient injury
- The patient suffered specific damages
In order to show that a doctor deviated from their standard of care, plaintiffs are often required to use an expert witness. A Pasco County medical malpractice lawyer could help find and hire an expert medical witness for litigation.
Pursuing a Medical Malpractice Claim in Pasco County
Medical malpractice plaintiffs in Pasco County may recover economic and non-economic damages, which may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical bills
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional anguish
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Lost wages
When filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, plaintiffs should be aware of the statute of limitations, which is the time limit imposed on a plaintiff’s right to sue. Florida Statutes §95.11(4)(b) gives medical malpractice plaintiffs two years from the date they discover their injury to file a lawsuit. If they fail to file within that two-year window, barring there are no exceptions, they may lose the right to sue in court. Therefore, it is critical for injured victims to consult with a seasoned lawyer as soon as possible.
How a Pasco County Medical Malpractice Attorney Could Help
You are not alone in your quest for legal recovery following a doctor’s error. A Pasco County medical malpractice lawyer could give you the support and guidance that you need to pursue a claim. From negotiations to trial, they could help you handle the complex landscape of medical malpractice. You could rest easier knowing that a legal professional is fighting for you. Call now to see what options might be available for you.