If there’s one thing that clinical negligence lawyers all agree on, particularly over the past 2 years, it’s that we are incredibly lucky to have the NHS and private  healthcare professionals that we all rely on in the UK.

However, it’s a fact of life that even the most highly trained and well-intentioned doctors, nurses and support staff make mistakes. So where do you stand when those mistakes have altered the course of your life, or the life of someone you love?

Find out where you stand

The answer is that ‘it depends’ according to Chris Achilles, one of Jackson Lees’ specialist Medical & Clinical Negligence Solicitors. 

What is medical negligence?

Chris explains that medical negligence occurs when substandard care is provided by a medical professional to a patient.  When that poor care has directly caused injury or meant that an existing condition got worse, then you may be able to get compensation. There’s are three main ways that medical negligence can occur, including : surgical & clinical mistakes, incorrect treatment that may or may not be a result of misdiagnosis.

If you can prove that you were owed a duty of care and that the person treating you provided treatment of such poor quality, that it  would not be considered acceptable by any reasonable body of medical practitioners.

AND 

If you can also prove that as a result of those breaches of duty, you suffered avoidable harm or injury.  Then the chances of you making a successful claim just got a lot better.

Answers to common questions about medical negligence

Here are just a few questions that Chris is commonly asked, and the answers he gives…

How do I make a medical negligence claim?

Just call our specialist medical negligence solicitors on 0151 282 1700, we’ll offer you a free initial consultation and if we think you’ve got a case, we’ll take it from there.

How much might I get for a medical negligence claim?

That will vary on a number of factors including the extent of the injuries or loss you suffered, any expenses you’re already incurred and the likely costs of future care needs.

Is there a time limit on making a medical negligence claim?

Generally, three years from the date that the poor care was linked to your injury. But there are exceptions.  Call us and we’ll tell you where you stand pretty quickly.

Can I claim against the NHS & private medical practitioners?

Yes, you can, if you can prove the points we mentioned above.

Can I only make a medical negligence claim for myself?

No, parents can make claims on behalf of their children and carers can make claims on behalf of family members they are caring for.

Can I get legal aid for making a medical negligence claim?

Yes, but only in a specific group of cases involving brain injury at birth. In these cases, the claim is based on the injured person’s financial circumstances, not those of their parents or the person bringing the claim on their behalf.

 

Claim to get your life back

Don’t forget, making a medical negligence claim is about helping people get the funds they need to help bring their quality life back to the standard it would have been had the care they received been good.  That’s why we are eager to fight for the rights of victims of medical negligence.

Jackson Lees are a nationally recognised firm. Our compassionate & friendly team of expert medical negligence lawyers has years of experience in dealing with a variety of cases and we typically work on a no win, no fee basis.

So, if you believe you have suffered negligence at the hands of a medical practitioner, then please give us a call on 0151 282 1700, request a call back at your convenience or message us with your enquiry.