What is Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death?
When we go to the doctor, we assume that we will receive high quality medical care that will relieve us of our ailments. However, even with high medical standards for care and regulations to protect patients, fatal mistakes still occur, and when this happens, a medical malpractice, wrongful death lawsuit might be the only option.
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional commits a harmful act to a patient, or when they fail to act to save the patient’s life; likewise, wrongful death occurs when a person’s life is ended prematurely as the result of an act or failure to act by another.
Common Sources of Medical Malpractice Deaths
Due to the countless interaction with medical professionals, the source of malpractice can be difficult to pinpoint. Among the common causes of death related to medical malpractice are:
- Misdiagnosis of cancer
- Misdiagnosis of cardiac conditions
- Misdiagnosis in pediatrics
- Prescribing experimental drugs
- Errors during cosmetic surgery
- Birth related fatalities from delayed C-section procedure, failure to monitor the fetus, or improper
- delivery technique
- Emergency room errors
- Post-surgical infection
- Nursing home neglect
Who Can File a Lawsuit?
The State of California provides for a succession of heirs when filing a suit for wrongful death. Those who can file a suit, in order of succession, are: 1) spouses (including domestic partners), 2) children, 3) stepchildren, 4) dependent minors who have lived with the decedent for at least six months prior to decedent’s passing, 5) siblings, and 6) grandparents.
We understand that when a tragedy like this occurs, it takes a great toll on the entire family. Throughout the process of recovering losses, an experienced medical malpractice attorney can make a world of difference. In order for a case to be successful, an extensive amount of research and preparation must must be done, along with a thorough collection and evaluation of evidence.
What Compensation is Available?
If a loved one has died as the result of a medical professional’s mistake or negligence, you could be entitled to compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral costs
- Loss of future income
- Loss of companionship for spouses
- Loss of guidance and support for children
- Severe emotional pain for parents
Call Today for a Free Case Evaluation
Our team understands how complicated and difficult a medical malpractice case can be to prove, so we utilize specialized tools — including computer simulations, anatomical illustrations, and collaboration with experts — to explain the complex medical issues to a jury.
The experienced legal team of attorneys and staff at the Law Offices of Savin & Bursk can help you receive the compensation you need to cover medical bills for correctional procedures, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. Call today for a free case evaluation consultation.