Medical malpractice claim results in large recovery

Michigan residents who are unexpectedly hit with a debilitating medical condition expect to be quickly diagnosed and effectively treated by the medical professional they choose to see. While most doctors and nurses carry out their duties in a competent fashion, others fail to do so. This, in turn, puts innocent and unsuspecting patients at risk of suffering serious harm. Those who fall victim to doctor negligence can be shocked by the extent of their damages. Depending on the medical expenses, pain and suffering and lost wages involved, the losses can be enormous.

Just ask one 17-year-old and her family who recently recovered $135 million in a medical malpractice lawsuit. The award comes seven years after the girl underwent a spinal operation where hardware was utilized to alleviate her scoliosis. However, instead of easing the tension on her spine, the hardware cause pain and further injury. Instead of working to remedy the condition though, her doctor went on vacation, while she became paralyzed and incontinent.

It was not until more than a week later that another doctor operated on the girl to remove the hardware. By then, unfortunately, the girl suffered irreparable harm. She was left with permanent quadraparesis affecting both arms and legs. She also can no longer control her bladder and bowels. The jury refused to accept the defense’s claim that a blood clot caused the girl’s harm, and instead awarded what could be the biggest medical malpractice award in American history.

Victims of medical malpractice can end up facing extensive damages that can reshape the way they live their lives. At a time when they want to focus on reclaiming their health as much as possible and getting back to normal life, these individuals may not want to think about litigation. But, by taking legal action, victims may be able to reach a settlement or litigate their way to much needed compensation. As a result, these victims may be able to secure the financial safety net they need to truly focus on themselves.