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Medical Malpractice FAQ

As a law firm that skillfully guides medical malpractice cases toward successful resolutions, the staff at Howell Law Firm, PC, realizes that malpractice law is unfamiliar to most people. Here are some frequently asked questions from our clients and our answers.

What Is “Standard Of Care” And Why Is It Important?

The medical standard of care includes the standards and practices that are the accepted norm for medical professionals to adhere to when they care for patients. Think of it as the standard treatment protocol for a particular injury or disease. This term is relevant because a malpractice case has to prove that the standard of care was violated, resulting in injury or death for the patient.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Medical Malpractice Cases?

In the state of Georgia, the statute of limitations to file a court case for injury or death because of medical malpractice is two years after the injury or death. Our state also has a rule that the medical negligence that caused the injury or death happened within the last five years.

What Kind Of Compensation Is Available For Medical Malpractice Injuries?

There are three damages categories possible when a medical malpractice case rules in favor of a plaintiff. The first category of damages recovery is compensation for things like medical bills and lost wages. Noneconomic damage covers the element of pain and suffering experienced as a result of the malpractice. In some cases, a third category, punitive damages, applies. Punitive judgments serve as a punishment for willful and irresponsible actions that caused injury or death.

Who Can Be Sued For Medical Malpractice?

In Georgia, medical malpractice charges can be preferred against the following parties:

  • Physicians
  • Surgeons
  • Nurses
  • Anesthesiologists
  • Hospitals or medical facilities
  • Pharmacists
  • Other health care professionals or entities involved in patient care

With the help of an experienced medical malpractice attorney, the victim can file a lawsuit against the responsible parties to seek compensation for damages incurred due to their negligence or substandard care.

Can I Sue For Not Being Told About The Risks Of My Medical Care?

Yes. If you are the victim of medical negligence or malpractice in Georgia and were not adequately informed about the risks associated with your medical care, you may have grounds to pursue legal action for lack of informed consent.

Potential damages that may be recovered in such a lawsuit may include the following:

  • Medical expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills related to the injury or condition caused by the lack of informed consent.
  • Pain and suffering: Monetary damages for physical pain, emotional distress and mental anguish experienced as a result of the medical negligence.
  • Lost income: Reimbursement for wages lost due to time taken off work for medical treatment and recovery.
  • Disability or disfigurement: Damages for permanent disability, disfigurement or impairment resulting from medical negligence.

Medical malpractice lawsuits are complex and you may require the help of a medical malpractice lawyer to better ensure that your rights are protected, the evidence is properly gathered and analyzed, and your case is presented effectively in court.

What Is My Medical Malpractice Case Worth?

If the lawsuit goes in your favor, the value of your medical malpractice case will depend on various factors, including:

  • The extent of your injuries
  • The impact on your life
  • The severity of the negligence or malpractice
  • The economic damages you have suffered

Settlements may range from a few thousand dollars to several million, depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the strength of the evidence supporting your claims.

Call For A Free Consultation Today

To find out more about Howell Law Firm’s personal injury legal services, call 229-808-8105 or contact us by email to schedule a free initial consultation.