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What you need to know about medical malpractice in California

On Behalf of | Sep 15, 2021 | Medical Malpractice

When a health care professional makes a mistake, the consequences can affect the patient’s personal life and career and even lead to death. As reported by CNBC, medical error is the third-leading cause of death in the United States.

If you have been the victim of a doctor’s negligence, here is what you need to know about medical malpractice in California.

What is medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a health care provider’s professional actions lead to harm for a patient. Examples include:

  • Misdiagnosis of a condition
  • Improper treatment of an illness
  • Failure to diagnose or treat an illness
  • Surgical errors
  • Incorrect medication doses
  • Failure to order necessary tests

All California medical providers and licensed facilities are subject to malpractice laws, including doctors, nurses, psychologists, anesthesiologists, chiropractors, pharmacists and hospitals.

What remedies are available?

If you pursue a medical malpractice claim in California, you can seek compensation for your medical bills and lost wages. There is no limit on the amount of these compensatory damages.

You can also sue for non-economic damages, which cover harm that is harder to quantify, like pain and suffering, disfigurement and loss of life enjoyment. Awards can not exceed $250,000.

What is the statute of limitations?

Adults who are victims of medical negligence have three years from the date of the injury to begin a claim. If you discover the injury outside of this period, you have an additional year to file.

Medical malpractice can be difficult to prove. You should thoroughly document your injuries and begin your case right away to help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.