College Park Medical Malpractice Lawyer

YOUR DEFENSE: COLLEGE PARK MEDICAL MALPRACTICE ATTORNEYS

Every year, medical error results in 10% of all deaths in the United States. Trusting doctors and nurses with our health is essential. Most of the time, Georgia’s healthcare providers deliver high-quality care throughout the Atlanta area. Yet, errors can and do happen.

Patients and their families suffer. Our College Park medical malpractice lawyers at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC, offer legal advice and representation if medical negligence has harmed you or someone you care about. When personal injury litigation is necessary to address your injuries, suing the negligent provider is crucial.

Evidence must clearly establish that a medical error caused injury and that the standard of care was breached for a malpractice case to succeed. Proving medical malpractice involves demonstrating four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. The standard of care refers to what a reasonably competent healthcare professional would have done under similar circumstances. Gathering sufficient evidence to demonstrate causation is a significant challenge in medical malpractice claims. This would be considered medical malpractice. Our College Park legal team assists with filing a court complaint, supported by affidavits and medical documentation. Meticulous documentation of all medical interactions and treatments is crucial in building a strong foundation for any medical malpractice claim.

We handle all court proceedings, discovery, pre-trial motions, status conferences, and hearings for your medical malpractice lawsuit. Medical malpractice claims can be daunting due to various hurdles, including the need for expert medical testimonies to establish negligence. In Georgia, plaintiffs must file a medical malpractice claim within two years from the date of injury, subject to certain exceptions. The discovery rule in Georgia allows for flexibility in the statute of limitations if the injury was not immediately apparent. Our firm is a proud member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association and National Trial Lawyers, reflecting our commitment to professional excellence and recognition in the field. Get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation to further discuss your options.

How Medical Malpractice Injuries Happen

When a doctor makes a poor decision, everything changes all of a sudden. The infant doesn’t cry right away after the mother gives birth during a normal delivery. A man wakes up with a worse condition than before he trusted a surgeon to repair it. A woman ends herself in the emergency room after taking her doctor’s advice.

Mistakes in medicine don’t just happen. They have reasons, such as hasty judgments, disregard for signs, inadequate training, or simple negligence. The reasons that malpractice injuries happen are:

• Time is lost when diagnoses are missed or incorrect. When a patient has chest pain, a doctor may mistake it for heartburn when it’s a heart attack. A woman with aggressive cancer is assured that there is no need for concern. It’s too late by the time the truth is revealed.
• Surgical errors result in long-lasting scarring. A physician performs surgery on the incorrect body portion. After surgery, a tool is left within. When a nerve is accidentally severed, what should have been a straightforward surgery becomes permanently disabled. Broken bones can also occur due to surgical mistakes or improper handling, leading to serious, life-altering injuries.
• Medication errors can transform a drug into poison. A nurse provides the incorrect medication and confuses the charts of two patients. A patient who is allergic to anything is prescribed by a doctor. The incorrect dosage is given out by a pharmacist. A single slip-up can result in organ failure, mental damage, or worse.
• Futures are stolen before they start by birth traumas. When a doctor waits too long for a C-section, the infant loses oxygen. A newborn’s nerves are harmed when a nurse pushes too hard during delivery. What should be happy moments become a lifetime of medical treatment.
• The most vulnerable suffer in nursing homes and hospitals due to neglect. A patient gets severe, nasty sores from not being turned in bed. Because no one helped him get up, a bewildered old man falls. These wounds are not the result of mishaps. They occur when employees take shortcuts, disregard warning indicators, or just quit paying attention.

Common causes of medical negligence include understaffed hospitals, provider fatigue, and miscommunication among staff, all of which can increase the risk of serious injuries such as broken bones and brain injuries.

Common examples of medical malpractice include errors in surgery, misdiagnosis, and poor aftercare. Each of these errors has repercussions. Someone loses a loved one, their freedom, or their health. These are not only figures. These are actual patients, families, and suffering—all as a result of a medical professional’s failure to carry out their prescribed duties. The standard of care in these cases is determined by what a reasonably competent professional in the same medical community would have done under similar circumstances, often established through expert testimony.

Every year, medical error results in 10% of all deaths in the United States. Medical errors are the third leading cause of unintentional death in the United States, responsible for between 250,000 and 440,000 deaths annually.

In cases involving birth injuries and surgical errors, brain injuries can result from medical malpractice and may lead to permanent cognitive disabilities.

Types of Medical Malpractice Claims

Medical malpractice cases in Atlanta, GA, can arise from a wide range of situations where a healthcare provider’s negligence leads to harm. Atlanta medical malpractice lawyers and attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in these complex cases, helping them navigate the legal process and seek justice. Below are some of the most common types of medical malpractice claims that our law firm handles:

1. Misdiagnosis or Delayed DiagnosisWhen a medical provider fails to correctly or promptly diagnose a condition, patients may suffer serious personal injury or worsening health. Atlanta medical malpractice attorneys are skilled at proving medical malpractice in these cases, ensuring clients can recover compensation for additional medical bills and lost wages.
2. Surgical ErrorsMistakes during surgery—such as operating on the wrong site, leaving foreign objects inside the patient, or performing unnecessary procedures—can result in catastrophic personal injury or wrongful death. Atlanta medical malpractice lawyers have a proven track record in holding negligent medical professionals accountable for surgical errors.
3. Medication ErrorsIncorrect prescriptions, dosages, or administration of medication can cause severe harm or even be fatal. Medical malpractice litigation in these cases often involves working with medical experts to demonstrate how the healthcare provider breached the standard of care.
4. Birth InjuriesNegligence during childbirth can lead to birth injuries like cerebral palsy, brachial plexus injuries, or maternal complications. These cases are especially sensitive, and experienced Atlanta medical malpractice law firms provide compassionate legal representation to families affected by such serious injuries.
5. Hospital Acquired InfectionsPatients who contract infections due to poor hygiene or inadequate infection control in hospitals may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Proving negligence in these complex cases often requires the expertise of qualified experts and thorough review of medical records.
6. Anesthesia ErrorsErrors in administering anesthesia can result in brain damage, coma, or death. Atlanta medical malpractice attorneys understand the intricacies of these cases and work diligently to recover damages for injured clients and their families.
7. Emergency Room ErrorsThe fast-paced environment of emergency rooms can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or improper discharge. Atlanta medical malpractice lawyers are adept at investigating these incidents and pursuing fair compensation for victims.
8. Nursing Home Abuse or NeglectElderly patients in nursing homes may suffer from neglect, abuse, or substandard care, resulting in conditions like bedsores, malnutrition, or unexplained injuries. Legal action with the help of an Atlanta medical malpractice attorney can protect vulnerable family members and hold facilities accountable.
9. Failure to Obtain Informed ConsentHealthcare providers are required to inform patients about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to any procedure. If a patient is harmed due to lack of informed consent, Atlanta medical malpractice law firms can help them seek justice and recover damages.
10. Dental MalpracticeNegligence by dental professionals can cause nerve damage, infection, or even wrongful death. These malpractice cases require specialized legal experience, which Atlanta medical malpractice lawyers are equipped to provide.

In all these types of medical malpractice claims, having experienced Atlanta medical malpractice attorneys on your side is crucial. Our law firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning clients pay nothing unless we recover compensation for them. Whether you are facing complex cases involving brain damage, birth injuries, or wrongful death, our team is dedicated to helping you seek fair compensation and navigate the legal proceedings with confidence. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your well-being and securing your future.

Steps Involved With A Medical Malpractice Lawsuit

Life is never the same once a doctor makes a mistake. Complications arise from normal procedures. An ailment can worsen if a diagnosis is postponed. An irresponsible surgical blunder can cause permanent harm or even a wrongful death.

Medical malpractice can extend to various healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and therapists. A plaintiff in Georgia generally has two years from the date of injury to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. If a medical malpractice claim involves a minor, the statute of limitations does not begin until the child reaches the age of seven. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims is generally two years from the date of the injury or death, and Georgia applies a five-year statute of repose, limiting the time to file a lawsuit to five years from the date a medical error is made.

The purpose of Georgia’s lengthy legal procedure for medical malpractice claims is to hold careless healthcare professionals responsible. The steps involved in a medical malpractice lawsuit are:

• Getting evidence is the first step. Test results, witness accounts, and medical records all contribute to demonstrating what went wrong and how it might have been avoided. Sufficient evidence is needed to demonstrate causation linking the healthcare provider’s negligence to the injury suffered.
• The error must be verified by a medical professional. According to Georgia law, a licensed medical professional must examine the case and provide a sworn declaration attesting to the carelessness. The lawsuit cannot proceed without this affidavit.
• Everything becomes official when the lawsuit is filed. The specifics are outlined in the civil complaint, including who was at fault, what they did incorrectly, and how the error resulted in harm.
• During discovery, evidence is shared by both parties. Medical records, expert reports, and depositions—in which physicians and witnesses testify under oath—all fall under this category.
• In most circumstances, negotiations are held. Before a trial, insurance companies frequently attempt to settle; nevertheless, the sum must be reasonable and comprehensive. Most medical malpractice cases resolve through out-of-court settlements rather than going to trial.
• The matter goes to trial if no agreement is reached. After hearing the facts and hearing testimony from experts, a jury determines whether the hospital or doctor should face consequences. Trial preparation is crucial in maximizing case value and ensuring readiness for litigation.

Medical malpractice cases in Georgia can be complicated due to the need for comprehensive legal assistance and can take years to resolve.

Victims of medical malpractice can seek economic damages for additional medical care costs and lost wages. Patients harmed by medical malpractice can seek compensation for additional medical care costs and lost wages. In complex cases, recoverable damages can include both economic and non-economic damages for pain and suffering.

In cases of gross negligence, juries may award punitive damages in medical malpractice cases. Although medical malpractice trials are difficult, they provide affected victims with an opportunity to pursue justice. A compelling argument can result in tangible solutions, monetary relief, and adjustments that help keep others from making the same mistakes if you suffer a catastrophic injury.

A contingency fee arrangement can alleviate financial stress, as clients typically pay nothing unless compensation is recovered. Effective communication with your lawyer is essential for a smooth legal process and to keep you informed about your case.

Call 404-760-7400 now to schedule a free consultation with our experienced College Park medical malpractice attorneys.

In Need Of A Skilled College Park Medical Malpractice Lawyer?

Selecting the right medical malpractice lawyer, especially one whose practice areas include personal injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice, requires understanding their experience in similar cases. Our firm is recognized as experienced injury lawyers with a strong track record in Georgia medical malpractice cases, including those in Atlanta and South Georgia. We have recovered millions for clients in medical malpractice and personal injury cases, and our attorneys are graduates of respected law schools such as the University of Georgia School of Law and Emory University School of Law. It is important to inquire about a lawyer’s success rate in handling medical malpractice cases, and we encourage potential clients to research a lawyer’s reputation, recognition, and client testimonials to make an informed choice. Our College Park medical malpractice lawyers deliver outstanding representation for surgical errors, emergency room mistakes, plastic surgery mishaps, anesthesia errors, misdiagnoses, radiation injuries, electronic fetal monitoring injuries, birth injuries, pediatric meningitis, shoulder dystocia, brachial plexus injuries, fetal hypoxia, cerebral palsy, brain injury, and catastrophic malpractice injuries.

We help family members seek justice and compensation for their loved ones in cases of wrongful death or serious injury due to negligence. When pursuing a medical malpractice claim, it is crucial to document all medical interactions and treatments. Our firm is committed to effective communication and transparency, keeping clients informed throughout their case. We offer free consultations to evaluate your case and operate on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you.

FAQs by College Park Clients

Q. How do I collect a judgment after winning a medical malpractice case?

A. Your attorney can help you with the process of collecting the judgment, which may involve garnishing wages or seizing assets.

Q. Can an expert witness refuse to testify?

A. Yes, an expert witness can refuse to testify if they do not agree with the case or feel unqualified.

Q. Can an expert witness be cross-examined?

A. Yes, expert witnesses can be cross-examined by the opposing side to challenge their credibility.

Q. What is the statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice claim in College Park, Georgia?

A. Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-71), an action for medical malpractice must generally be brought within two years after the date the injury or death arising from the negligent act occurred. However, no claim can be filed more than five years after the date of the alleged negligence, known as the statute of repose, with limited exceptions such as for minors. Delays in discovering the injury do not typically extend these strict deadlines. If you believe you’ve been harmed by medical negligence in College Park, it’s critical to consult an experienced medical malpractice lawyer promptly to evaluate your timeline and protect your rights—don’t risk losing your ability to seek justice.

Q. Do I need an expert affidavit to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in College Park?

A. Yes, Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 9-11-9.1) requires that a medical malpractice complaint be accompanied by an affidavit from a qualified expert. This affidavit must set forth at least one specific negligent act or omission and the factual basis supporting the claim. This requirement helps ensure claims have merit from the outset. Our College Park medical malpractice team works closely with respected medical experts to prepare strong affidavits, building a solid foundation for your case and pursuing the full compensation you deserve.

Q. What kinds of compensation can I recover with a College Park medical malpractice lawyer?

A. Victims of medical negligence in College Park may recover economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and future care costs, with no statutory limit under Georgia law. Non-economic damages for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life are also available without caps, following the Georgia Supreme Court’s ruling that prior limits were unconstitutional. In rare cases involving willful misconduct, punitive damages may apply. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can thoroughly assess your losses and fight aggressively for maximum recovery.

Q. How can a College Park medical malpractice lawyer help prove my case?

A. Proving medical malpractice in Georgia requires showing that a healthcare provider breached the standard of care, causing your injury. This often involves detailed medical records review, expert testimony, and evidence of deviation from accepted practices. Our experienced College Park team investigates thoroughly, secures qualified medical experts, and builds compelling cases to hold negligent providers accountable—helping you navigate complex legal and medical issues while focusing on your recovery.

Q. Are birth injuries considered medical malpractice in College Park, Georgia?

A. Yes, birth injuries resulting from negligence—such as failure to monitor fetal distress, improper use of delivery tools, or delayed C-sections—can form the basis of a medical malpractice claim under Georgia law. These cases often involve lifelong consequences for the child and family. If your child suffered harm during birth in College Park due to substandard care, acting quickly is essential to preserve evidence and meet deadlines. Our dedicated medical malpractice lawyers are here to review your situation in a free consultation and pursue justice on your behalf.

Q. What damages are available if medical malpractice leads to wrongful death in College Park?

A. In wrongful death cases stemming from medical negligence in Georgia, surviving family members may recover the full value of the lost life, funeral expenses, medical costs, and non-economic losses for the family’s pain and suffering—with no caps on these damages. These claims demand strong evidence of negligence. Our compassionate College Park medical malpractice team supports families through this difficult process, handling investigations and advocacy so you can grieve while we seek the accountability and compensation your loved one deserves.

Q. Why choose a local College Park medical malpractice lawyer for my claim?

A. A local College Park medical malpractice lawyer understands Georgia’s specific laws, including strict filing requirements and deadlines, as well as area healthcare providers and courts. This familiarity helps build stronger cases tailored to your community. With deep knowledge of medical negligence issues affecting College Park residents, our team provides personalized guidance, free case reviews, and relentless representation to secure the results and justice you need—call today to discuss your options.

Get In Touch With A Top College Park Medical Malpractice Law Firm Today​

If you’re in College Park and need an experienced medical malpractice lawyer because you or a loved one were injured by a negligent medical provider, call Chance, Forlines, Carter & King at 404-760-7400 to arrange a free consultation. Our law firm handles personal injury cases and serves clients in College Park and throughout the state of Georgia.

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