TOLL FREE: 888-457-1147 | LOCAL: 216-241-1901

What kinds of damages are available in a medical malpractice claim?

 

A: In a Cleveland malpractice claim, there are traditionally 3 different general types of damages that can be awarded to the patient in a malpractice settlement: 

• special (economic) damages – these include expenses that can be quantified, such as the reimbursement of medical bills and lost income from time missed at work;
• general (noneconomic) damages – this compensation is meant to address the suffering caused by the malpractice, such as: pain, mental anguish, psychological trauma, or decrease in quality or enjoyment of life resulting from the medical malpractice;
• punitive damages – these damages are typically assessed against a defendant only when the medical error was perpetrated in such a way that is considered particularly egregious, such as errors resulting from alcohol abuse, drug abuse, or willful malfeasance. Medical malpractice punitive damages are rare in Ohio. 

In the tragic event that a patient passes away from the instance of malpractice, then his or her next of kin may be entitled to the damages inflicted and suffered from the time of malpractice up until the patient’s death as well as the estimated future economic loss of income from the family member’s death. 

If you or someone in your family has been the victim of a medical negligence error that resulted in serious injury or death, don’t delay. The Ohio statute of limitations allows only 1 year for claimants to bring action against the responsible party. After that window of time expires, it will be impossible to bring a claim against the negligent doctor or medical professional. 

Help with Your Malpractice Settlement from Cleveland, Ohio, Attorneys  

Do you have questions about your potential Cleveland malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a medical malpractice claim lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of medical negligence. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland, Ohio, attorneys at Mellino Robenalt LLC today about your malpractice settlement – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.