skip to main content
Email Print

Exploring Types of Damages in Medical Malpractice Cases

 

Patients who have suffered as a result of medical malpractice in Annapolis or elsewhere in Maryland, may have grounds to pursue a medical lawsuit against the healthcare provider or hospital. Statutes of limitations prevent patients from filing lawsuits if too much time has passed since the injury occurred, so contact a medical lawyer promptly to discuss your case. Your attorney can explain the process of filing a lawsuit and assessing the types of damages you may recover. gavel-meter

Non-economic Damages

Damages refer to the compensation you might receive for the cost of your losses. Some types of damages are easy to calculate, while others are less straightforward. General damages can include your physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. They might also include permanent disability, disfigurement, and trauma. There is no single formula that medical lawyers use to calculate general damages, which are also sometimes called non-economic damages. Since every medical malpractice case is unique, it’s best to discuss this matter with your attorney. He or she will need to know about the specific ways in which your injury has affected your daily life, such as whether you can no longer provide adequate care for your children or whether you are no longer capable of participating in beloved activities.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are quantifiable losses that stem from the act of medical malpractice. These damages can include the costs of hospitalization, diagnostics, medical procedures, medications, durable medical equipment, and home health aides. Plaintiffs in medical malpractice cases can request damages for past and future losses. For example, if they are permanently paralyzed, plaintiffs may recover compensation for the cost of their future medical care. An attorney will bring in expert witnesses to testify about the anticipated future costs. In addition, a claim can be made for income lost as a result of not being able to work because of the injury caused by the medical negligence.