4 Mistakes people make during their medical malpractice case

Law Offices of Steven Zwick
May 28 2022

No one ever expects to be involved in a medical malpractice case, but the unfortunate reality is that these cases happen more often than people think. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), medical malpractice kills approximately 225,000 individuals each year. However, there are many mistakes that people often make when trying to navigate the complicated and confusing legal process of filing a medical malpractice claim. Here are the top four common mistakes to avoid.

1. Failing to Act Quickly

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to take action. There is a statute of limitations for filing medical malpractice claims, which varies from state to state. In some states, the time limit is as short as one year. If you wait too long to file your claim, you could potentially lose out on legal recourse for any damages that have been caused by the medical malpractice.

2. Failing to Gather All of the Necessary Documentation

Another common mistake is failing to collect and organize all of the relevant information and documentation related to your case. This includes records from doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, therapists, and other healthcare providers involved in your care. It’s also important to collect information such as insurance documents, bills from treatment or prescription medication costs, legal correspondence, and more. Without this information, it can be difficult to prove that you have a valid medical malpractice claim.

3. Not Working With an Experienced Legal Professional

Perhaps one of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to handle their legal cases on their own. Medical malpractice cases can be complex, and it’s important to have an experienced legal team to guide you with legal advice and support throughout the process. A legal professional can help you navigate the legal process, understand your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case.

4. Not Being Prepared for Legal Costs

It’s also important to be aware that legal costs can add up quickly. You may need to pay legal fees, court filing fees, and other expenses associated with your case. Make sure you’re prepared for these legal costs by setting aside a budget that allows you to cover these expenses. In addition, legal professionals may be able to help you get compensation for legal costs, which can help offset some of these expenses.

If you are considering filing a medical malpractice case, it’s important to take action quickly and work with an experienced legal professional who can help guide you through the legal process. With the right legal advice and support, you can successfully navigate this difficult situation and get the legal recourse you deserve. For more information about mistakes people make during their medical malpractice cases, please contact our legal team today.