How much will I receive in compensation for medical malpractice?
A medical malpractice claim is made up of a number of different elements.
You are entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering you have suffered as a direct result of the medical negligence. For example, suppose you went to A&E with a broken ankle and they sent you home without an x-ray saying that you had a sprain. If your broken ankle was finally diagnosed months later but there was no longer term damage caused as a result of the delay, you might expect around £1,500 in compensation. You could expect significantly more if you suffer an injury that permanently harms your quality of life.
You can also claim for loss of earnings if you had to take time off from work as a result of the injuries you suffered from the medical malpractice and did not receive full pay from your employer. If you are left unable to work at all because of medical malpractice, your compensation will reflect this.
You can also be compensated for any costs you incur which relate to your condition, whether these are in the present or in future. If you need nursing care, adaptations to your home or vehicle, aids and equipment, this can all be included.
With serious medical injuries, these figures will be added up over your lifetime to ensure that you are properly cared for. Substantial awards are often paid in the form of an initial lump sum, followed by additional periodical payments each year.