Have you been injured due to a doctor’s mistake in Georgia? You might be wondering if you have a medical malpractice case. This guide will explain the basics of medical malpractice law in Georgia, helping you understand your rights and options.
What is Medical Malpractice?
Imagine you go to the doctor for a routine procedure, but something goes wrong, and you’re left worse off. That’s medical malpractice. It happens when a healthcare professional fails to provide the standard of care expected, causing you harm. This could involve:
- Diagnosis errors: Missing a serious illness or misdiagnosing you with the wrong condition.
- Surgical mistakes: Operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical tools inside you, or causing unnecessary complications.
- Medication errors: Prescribing the wrong medication, dosage, or giving it to the wrong patient.
- Birth injuries: Injuries sustained by a baby during delivery due to negligence.
What to Know About Medical Malpractice Lawsuits in Georgia
To win a medical malpractice case in Georgia, you’ll need to prove four things:
- Doctor-Patient Relationship: You had a doctor-patient relationship with the healthcare professional who treated you.
- Breach of Duty: The doctor failed to provide the standard of care a qualified professional would have in the same situation.
- Causation: The doctor’s mistake caused your injury or illness.
- Damages: You suffered damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.
Important Time Limits: Statute of Limitations
There’s a limited time to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in Georgia. This is called the statute of limitations. Generally, you have two years, but there are exceptions depending on the specific facts of your case. When in doubt, find out! Consult with a Georgia malpractice specialist today.