Three Medical Malpractice Myths Debunked
When you are sick or injured, you trust your health to a physician to help you recover. Sadly, there may be instances where your medical providers are negligent in their duties, and this can cause irreparable harm to you. Fortunately, it is possible to file medical malpractice lawsuits to help you receive compensation for the damages these injuries incurred to you. Yet, there may be a few myths you have heard that might dissuade you from pursuing these matters before a court of law.
Myth: You Can Only Sue A Doctor For Medical Malpractice
While your doctor is the leader of your health care team, there are many other members of their staff that must perform their duties to ensure that you make a full recovery. Unfortunately, there may be times when your nurse or physician's assistant fails to responsibly perform their duties, and this can cause major bodily harm.
Luckily, it is possible for you to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against any member of the health care team that treated you. In fact, it is not uncommon for the entire healthcare team to be named in the lawsuit.
Myth: Signing A Consent Form Makes It Impossible To Sue For Medical Malpractice
Before you undergo medical treatment, you will be asked to sign a consent form. This form limits the liability of the doctors and support staff in the event there is a problem with your treatment. Yet, this does not mean that it is impossible for you to file a lawsuit.
This stems from the fact that these consent forms only apply when the doctor or staff were not being negligent in their duties. As a result, if these individuals are not doing their jobs in a responsible manner, you will be free from this consent form, and you will be able to file for malpractice before a court of law.
Myth: It Is Expensive To Pursue A Medical Malpractice Case
While it is true that attorneys can charge high fees, and there are numerous fees that must be paid to file documents with the court system, it should be noted that most clients will not need to pay anything out of pocket if they are unable to receive compensation for their injuries. These attorneys, such as McLaughlin & Lauricella, P.C., will collect their fees from the final settlement amount, and this can help ensure your rights are protected when you are the victim of medical malpractice regardless of your financial means.
Medical malpractice has the potential to destroy lives, and while the court system allows individuals to pursue these claims, there are several myths that many people think are true about these cases. After dispelling these medical malpractice notions, you will be in a stronger position to decide if pursuing your case through the courts is a viable option.