Medical malpractice lawsuits are filed every day in the United States. When a patient is injured or killed as the result of a mistake made by a doctor, nurse, hospital, or another medical professional, they may file a lawsuit to recover damages.
These damages can include economic losses, such as lost income and medical expenses, and noneconomic losses, such as pain and suffering. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of damages that may be available in a medical malpractice case.
Economic Damages
Economic losses are the most straightforward type of damages in a medical malpractice case. These are the financial costs that the plaintiff has incurred as a result of the defendant’s negligence.
This can include things like lost wages if the plaintiff is unable to work because of their injuries, and medical expenses, both past, and future. In some cases, economic damages can also include things like funeral expenses if the plaintiff’s loved one was killed as a result of medical malpractice.
Noneconomic Damages
Noneconomic damages are more difficult to quantify than economic damages. These are the intangible costs that the plaintiff has incurred as a result of the defendant’s negligence.
This can include things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium. In some cases, noneconomic damages can also include punitive damages, which are designed to punish the defendant for their negligence.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are not available in every medical malpractice case. These damages are only awarded in cases where the defendant’s negligence was particularly egregious. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
We Can Help with Your Medical Malpractice Case
If you’ve suffered injuries as a result of a healthcare provider’s mistake, you may be owed compensation for your losses. Don’t delay—reach out right away to learn more about how we can help with your case.
Contact our experienced medical malpractice attorneys at Cherundolo Law Firm, PLLC today by calling (315) 544-3332 or by filling out our online contact form.