Medical Malpractice Damages
December 24, 2013
When you’re undergoing a medical procedure, you have a right to expect the provider will uphold an acceptable level of care. However, doctors, nurses and hospitals can make serious errors that often lead to life-altering consequences for patients. If you or a loved one has been the victim of negligent medical care, the Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyers at Wapner Newman can help you build an effective case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Damages in malpractice cases fall into three categories:
- Economic compensation is meant to cover medical bills accrued as a result of your malpractice injury. Additional costs like lost wages and benefits also fall under this category.
- Non-economic compensation is awarded for less tangible, but no less serious, damages like pain and suffering.
- Punitive damages punish health care providers who act negligently. Punitive damages are sometimes awarded in cases involving malicious behavior or fraud.
Some states place caps on the damages plaintiffs can receive in medical malpractice cases. Pennsylvania does not currently have limits on compensatory damages, but punitive damages are limited to twice the amount of compensatory restitution awarded to a plaintiff. Additionally, 25 percent of all punitive damages must be paid into a special state fund that covers patients whose claims are greater than the malpractice insurance coverage of their health care provider.
To learn more about how our Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyers can help you pursue a case against a negligent health care professional, please contact Wapner Newman or call 1-800-529-6600 to schedule a no-cost consultation.