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How To Report Medical Malpractice

Posted on October 20, 2023 in

If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury as a patient, you may want to consider reporting this act of medical malpractice. When it comes to health care, it’s important to hold medical professionals accountable for any negligent actions that lead to harm or injury. A medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago can help you navigate the reporting process as well as the legal complexities surrounding these malpractice claims.

From gathering evidence to communicating with insurance companies and healthcare providers, you’re in good hands with Duncan Law Group. Our firm has over 15 years of experience representing clients in class action and personal injury litigation. More importantly, we always put our clients’ needs first. Keep reading to learn more about how to address medical malpractice effectively.

What is medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice refers to any situation where a healthcare professional or provider fails to provide a proper standard of care, resulting in harm or injury to a patient. This can include instances of misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or failure to diagnose.

Thankfully, an experienced attorney with experience in medical malpractice claims can help you build a compelling case. It’s important to have professional insight to understand whether you can obtain maximum compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Check out some of the most common types of medical malpractice below.

Common Types of Medical Malpractice

A medical malpractice attorney can assist you with the following types of malpractice claims:

  • Misdiagnosis
  • Nursing home abuse or neglect
  • Birth injuries
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Medication errors
  • Brain damage
  • Misread X-rays or tests
  • Surgical errors
  • Anesthesia errors
  • Wrongful death

It’s important that you find an attorney with years of experience with these types of cases. Every personal injury is different. The attorney must prove that a healthcare provider-patient relationship actually existed and that the provider deviated from medical standards of care. They must also prove that the provider’s negligence worsened your condition and that you suffered physical damages.

How do you report medical malpractice in Chicago?

Medical malpractice lawyer Chicago sitting at a desk and writing on documents for a claim

In order to report medical malpractice in Illinois, you must seek out the advice and representation of a skilled medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago. The attorney can provide you with the expertise that you need to navigate the complex legal system as well as ensure your rights as a patient are protected.

You’ll have to file a medical malpractice claim and gather all relevant medical records, test results, and other evidence to support your case. Your attorney’s experience and track record of success are instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome through negotiation, settlement, or litigation.

How long do you have to report medical malpractice in Illinois?

For medical malpractice cases, the Illinois statute of limitations states that the injured person can file a claim two years from the date of the injury that they knew or should have reasonably known about being a victim of malpractice. But if they discover the injury later on, they’ll have no longer than four years from the date of the malpractice to file a lawsuit.

If an injured person is under the age of 18 when they experienced the malpractice the state extends the statute of limitations. They must file within eight years or before their 22nd birthday, whichever date comes first. The patient cannot file a claim past the date they turn 22.

Speaking to an experienced attorney in the Chicago area can help you begin your first steps and ensure you meet the deadline.

What is the average settlement for medical malpractice in Illinois?

Every malpractice case is unique. The average payout differs depending on the type of medical malpractice, the severity of the injury, the liable party’s insurance coverage, alongside many other factors that may be considered in the case. If you’re interested in pursuing maximum compensation, it’s crucial that you choose a medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago who can help you support your claims.

Medical malpractice encompasses a wide range of errors and negligence, and these cases often require comprehensive investigation. Look for a personal injury attorney who is reputable and has a track record of experience that’s relevant to your particular circumstances. Choosing a skilled lawyer can increase your chances of securing a fair and just settlement, as the strength of the evidence presented is also a significant factor in the settlement amount.

How can a medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago help?

A medical malpractice lawyer Chicago sitting at a desk with a plaintiff going over details of their malpractice claim

Medical malpractice lawyers can evaluate your case, investigate the facts, review medical records, and consult healthcare experts to determine whether your case has merit. They should have a history of success and be able to provide you with an honest assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of your case. More importantly, they will file a claim against the healthcare provider or the institution that’s responsible for your injury.

In addition to providing legal expertise, a medical malpractice attorney also understands that personal injuries can take a toll on your life as well as your family’s life. This toll can be physical, emotional, mental, and financial. So, it’s necessary that you choose compassionate advocates whose goals are to ensure you receive the justice and the compensation you deserve. Thankfully, you won’t have to look any further than Duncan Law Group.

Contact Duncan Law Group Today

A medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago walking down the stairs preparing to go to trial

Here at Duncan Law Group, our medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago will have the extensive knowledge to support your case. If you’re a victim of medical malpractice, our firm is confident that we can increase your chances of a successful outcome. We have the skills, resources, and experience to build a compelling case for your suit, and we can help you hold negligent medical professionals, hospitals, and insurance companies accountable for their wrongdoing.

Our law firm will examine the cause of your injuries, and we’re willing to fight for the level of compensation that you deserve to improve your quality of life. We understand the true impact of a personal injury, and we are ready to work relentlessly to help you through this difficult time. Reach out to an attorney from Duncan Law Group today for a free consultation.