When a Doctor’s Failure to Diagnose Causes Harm: Your Legal Options
When you seek medical attention after an accident or injury, you trust that your healthcare provider will take the necessary steps to accurately assess your condition. Unfortunately, when a doctor, nurse, or hospital fails to properly diagnose a serious injury, the consequences can be life-altering—or even fatal.
At LoVerde Law, we specialize in representing victims of medical negligence who have suffered due to a failure to diagnose serious injuries. Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of medical malpractice claims and is dedicated to securing justice and compensation for those harmed by diagnostic errors.
Failure to Diagnose Medical Malpractice: Understanding the Impact
A failure to diagnose a serious injury can lead to devastating consequences, including:
- Worsening of the original injury
- Delayed or improper treatment
- Permanent disability
- Increased medical costs
- Loss of income and earning potential
- Emotional and psychological distress
If you or a loved one suffered harm because a healthcare provider failed to properly diagnose an injury, you may have a legal claim.
Medical Malpractice: Commonly Misdiagnosed Injuries and Their Consequences
Some of the most common injuries that go undiagnosed or are improperly diagnosed include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Stroke
- Aneurysm
- Internal bleeding
- Fractures and dislocations
- Nerve damage
- Sepsis/infection
- Infections resulting from untreated wounds
When these injuries are not identified and treated promptly, the consequences can be catastrophic. Our firm is committed to holding negligent medical professionals accountable for their mistakes.
What to Do After Experiencing Medical Malpractice
Experiencing a medical error can be overwhelming and frightening. Knowing the right steps to take immediately afterward can protect your health and your legal rights.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Even if you suspect a mistake, make sure you receive appropriate care to address any injuries or complications. Documenting your treatment can also help support your case later.
- Request Your Medical Records: Obtain copies of all relevant medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, and hospital charts. These records are essential for reviewing what happened and building a strong legal case. Your attorney can help request and organize these documents.
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of what occurred, including symptoms, treatments, conversations with medical staff, and dates. Photos, emails, and messages related to your care can all serve as evidence.
- Avoid Signing Documents or Giving Statements: Hospitals or insurance companies may ask you to sign forms or provide statements about the incident. Don’t sign anything or admit fault before speaking with a qualified medical malpractice attorney.
- Consult a Medical Malpractice Attorney: An experienced lawyer can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and protect your rights. They can help determine liability, work with medical experts, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Act Quickly: Medical malpractice claims are time-sensitive. In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the injury (or from when you discovered it) to file a lawsuit. Acting promptly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
How LoVerde Law Can Help
Navigating a medical malpractice claim can be overwhelming, but our attorneys have the knowledge and resources to guide you through every step of the process. When you choose LoVerde Law, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your case
- Work with medical experts to determine negligence
- Gather evidence, including medical records and expert testimony
- Fight for full and fair compensation for your injuries and losses
- Provide you with answers as to what went wrong and how it could have or may have been prevented.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Case – Free Consultation Available
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a failure to diagnose a serious injury, do not wait to seek legal help. Our firm offers free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us today!
