Medical and Dental Malpractice
If you or a family member has lost their lives or suffered long-term health consequences as a result of medical or dental malpractice, it is important to make sure you contact a Fort Worth medical/dental malpractice attorney before the statute of limitations runs out. In Texas, the law states you must file a claim within two years unless the injury happens to a minor in which case, different rules apply.
What is Medical/Dental Malpractice?
Medical/dental malpractice is a broad term that means a person has suffered an injury that is caused by the negligence of a healthcare provider. These rules do not apply only to medical doctors and dentists, they may also apply to:
- Psychiatrists – if the psychiatrist prescribes medication and does not accurately inform the patient of possible side effects, there may be a potential for a claim of medical malpractice
- Emergency room nurses – an emergency room nurse fails to ask about the patient’s symptoms and they later succumb to internal injuries after a car accident. In this case, the nurse was negligent in her responsibilities and the family may be able to file a claim
- Nursing home caregivers – when a nursing home patient reportedly has bruises, bedsores and other untreated wounds that have been left unattended, an attorney should be consulted
Medical and dental professionals are required to provide a certain level of care to their patients. Hospitals, nursing homes, physicians and nurses are charged with exercising that care whenever a patient is in need of treatment.
Proving Medical or Dental Negligence
The simple act of negligence is not always easy to prove. However, unexpected results after a routine surgical procedure can be caused by inappropriate surgical techniques, problems with anesthesia or improper follow-up care. Since each case of medical or dental negligence is different, anyone who believes they have been a victim of medical or dental malpractice is encouraged to contact a Fort Worth medical malpractice attorney to have the facts of their case reviewed.
It is important to note that not every bad medical or dental outcome is the result of medical or dental malpractice. Every situation is unique and medical or dental outcomes are based on a number of factors including a patient’s physical condition, medication they may be taking and even physiological factors. If you believe there is evidence of medical or dental malpractice that resulted in death, long-term health issues that could have been prevented, or a surgical error, it is important you contact an attorney immediately to review your case.
At the Law Office of W. Brice Cottongame and Associates, we have the experience and know-how to evaluate medical and dental malpractice cases and make sure that if you or a family member was a victim of medical or dental negligence of any kind, that you get the compensation for which you are entitled. No amount of money will make up for serious injuries, death or disfigurement, but it can help relieve some of the financial burden you may be facing. At The Law Office of W. Brice Cottongame and Associates, we only accept a fee if we are able to secure a recovery for you. Call us today and allow us to review your case and determine if you have a claim under Texas medical malpractice statutes.
