Understanding Medical Malpractice: When to Call a Medical Liability Lawyer
Medical professionals are expected to provide safe and effective care, but mistakes happen. When those mistakes result in harm, you may have a medical malpractice case. Knowing when to contact a medical liability lawyer can help you protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence causes injury or harm to a patient. This can happen due to misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, or failure to provide proper treatment. To have a valid case, you must prove:
A doctor-patient relationship existed.
The provider failed to meet the standard of care.
Their negligence directly caused harm.
Common Examples of Medical Malpractice
Some of the most frequent medical malpractice cases involve:
Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis – A doctor fails to detect a serious condition, leading to worsened health.
Surgical Errors – Operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside a patient, or causing unnecessary complications.
Medication Mistakes – Prescribing the wrong medication or incorrect dosage, leading to harmful side effects.
Birth Injuries – Negligence during childbirth that results in injury to the baby or mother.
Failure to Obtain Informed Consent – Performing a procedure without fully informing the patient of the risks.
When to Contact a Medical Liability Lawyer
If you’ve suffered due to a medical mistake, it’s essential to speak with a medical liability lawyer as soon as possible. You should seek legal help if:
You’ve experienced severe injuries or long-term health complications due to a medical error.
A doctor, hospital, or insurance company denies responsibility for negligence.
You’re unsure whether your case qualifies as medical malpractice.
A medical liability lawyer can evaluate your case, gather medical records, and work with experts to prove negligence.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
Each state has a time limit for filing a medical malpractice claim. In Oklahoma, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to take legal action. Waiting too long could result in losing your right to compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help Your Case
A skilled attorney can:
Investigate the incident and gather necessary evidence.
Work with medical experts to prove negligence.
Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
Represent you in court if necessary.
Protect Your Rights After Medical Negligence
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact The West Law Firm to discuss your case with an experienced medical liability lawyer and get the justice you deserve.