Medical malpractice cases are always some of the worst for patients and medical providers alike. Medical providers are only human, so making a mistake is something that could easily happen. Victims are left with pain and losses that they have to deal with, too.
Medical malpractice does tend to lead to lawsuits and settlements, but the reality is that not many cases result in a payout. The rate of paid claims is down in the United States, dropping by a shocking 56 percent between 1992 and 2014. Despite that, the payout for those who succeed is extremely high, with an average of $353,000 paid to victims.
One of the reasons for fewer claims and cases reaching trial is the result of state limits and caps on awards. Some attorneys may not take cases with small potential payouts, while others are eager to help those with claims regardless of pay. It’s something to consider.
Around 8 percent of all medical malpractice claims paid out between 2009 and 2014 paid over $1 million. The most common cause of deaths or injuries was making diagnostic errors.
The fortunate truth of the drop in payouts could be that fewer people are dying from errors and are actually suffering injuries or deaths directly related to their conditions. It’s not always an error when a patient is injured or dies. If there is enough evidence to suggest malpractice, it’s in your best interests to keep copies of your documents and to give them to your attorney to start a lawsuit. You have limited time to do so.
Source: CBS News, “Fewer medical malpractice lawsuits succeed, but payouts are up,” Dennis Thompson, accessed May 10, 2018