When you go to the doctor for medical treatment of any kind, it is with the assumption that you will receive quality care from your provider. Washington patients place a significant amount of trust in their doctors, nurses and other health care professionals, and it can be devastating when they fail to provide a certain standard of care. If you are suffering from what you believe is negligent care or a type of medical mistake, you may have grounds to pursue compensation through a civil claim.
It could be in your interests to seek a medical malpractice lawsuit against the liable party. This is a reasonable course of action for those who are suffering because of the actions or decisions of doctors, surgeons, diagnosticians, nurses and other types of care providers. The first step in this process is to determine whether you have a valid claim and what rights you may have as a victim.
Deciding to file a lawsuit
The decision to file a lawsuit over medical malpractice is not always straightforward or easy. You will benefit from a careful look at your case in order to determine if this is the appropriate course of action for you, and which parties are responsible for what occurred that led to your harm. In order to have an actionable medical malpractice claim, you must have evidence of the following:
- There was a duty owed to you by the doctor or care provider
- There is evidence of a breach of that duty
- The breach of duty resulted in your physical, emotional or financial harm
In medical malpractice cases, it is important to have documentation and evidence that proves proximate cause. This concept asserts that you would not be suffering if it were not for the actions of the offending party.
Your quick action matters
In a medical malpractice case, your quick action is important. If you believe you are a victim of negligent care, it is important for the outcome of your case to take immediate and decisive action to explore your legal options. A prompt response to a possible medical malpractice incident can also preserve evidence and documentation that may be critical to your case. The civil justice system provides you the opportunity to seek compensation for your medical needs, additional expenses and emotional trauma.