When you trust a doctor or hospital to provide care and something goes wrong, the consequences can affect every part of your life. Whether it’s a delayed diagnosis, a surgical mistake, or an error with your treatment, the effects can leave you feeling confused and uncertain about what to do next. Along with the physical challenges, you might be facing unexpected medical costs, missed work, and the emotional strain of knowing the harm could have been prevented.
At Taylor Odachowski Schmidt & Crossland, LLC, we understand how medical malpractice can turn your life upside down. With decades of experience handling these complex cases, our legal team knows how to navigate the challenges of holding negligent healthcare providers accountable. We take pride in offering compassionate, personalized service to each client, guiding you through the process and fighting for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
How is Medical Malpractice Defined in Georgia?
In Georgia, medical malpractice is defined as a healthcare provider’s failure to meet the appropriate standard of care, leading to injury or harm to a patient. The “standard of care” is the level of treatment that a reasonably skilled and competent medical professional would provide under similar circumstances. If a doctor, nurse, or hospital acts negligently, and their actions – or lack of action – result in harm to the patient, this may be considered medical malpractice.
To prove a medical malpractice claim, your St. Simons Island medical malpractice lawyer must prove the following:
- The healthcare provider had a duty of care to the patient.
- The duty of care was breached because the provider’s treatment fell below acceptable standards.
- The breach directly caused harm to the patient, meaning the injury was a direct result of the provider’s negligence.
- The patient suffered damages as a result of the harm, such as medical costs, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
At TOSC, our experienced medical malpractice attorneys have a deep understanding of Georgia’s medical malpractice laws and know how to build a strong case to hold negligent healthcare providers accountable. We work diligently to gather the necessary evidence, consult with medical experts, and develop a legal strategy tailored to each client’s unique situation.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice Claims in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases is typically two years from the date of the injury or negligence. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit after the injury occurs or after you discover that medical negligence has caused harm. However, Georgia also has a statute of repose, which sets an absolute deadline of five years from the date the malpractice occurred, regardless of when the injury was discovered.
There are some exceptions, such as cases involving foreign objects left in the body, where the time limits might differ slightly. It’s crucial to act quickly, as failing to file within these deadlines can result in your case being dismissed, leaving you without any recourse for compensation. At TOSC, we can begin work on your case quickly, ensuring you can comply with these critical deadlines and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Evidence That Can Support Your Medical Malpractice Claim
Proving a medical malpractice case requires gathering strong evidence to show negligence. The following are the essential types of evidence that can support your claim:
Medical Records
Medical records provide a detailed timeline of your treatment and can highlight errors or lapses in care. They serve as foundational evidence to show where your healthcare provider may have deviated from the standard of care.
Expert Testimony
Expert testimony from a qualified healthcare professional is critical. These experts review your case and confirm whether the care you received fell below accepted medical standards, helping to establish negligence.
Injury Documentation
Photos, videos, or other visual records of your injuries can illustrate the physical impact of the malpractice. This evidence helps demonstrate the severity of the harm and how it has progressed over time.
Testimony from Other Providers
If you’ve consulted other doctors or specialists, their testimony can further support your claim. They can help identify medical errors made by the initial provider and confirm that negligence occurred.
Proof of Damages
Financial and emotional damages are key to your case. Evidence such as medical bills, lost wages, and statements on your pain and suffering help quantify the impact of the malpractice on your life.
Trusted St. Simons Island Medical Malpractice Lawyers: Advocating for Your Recovery
If you have been harmed by a medical professional’s negligence, the effects can be overwhelming. You may be facing physical pain, mounting medical bills, and emotional distress. At Taylor Odachowski Schmidt & Crossland, LLC, we understand how medical malpractice can turn your life upside down, and we’re here to help. With years of experience and a compassionate approach, our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to holding negligent providers accountable and securing the compensation you deserve.
Take the first step toward justice. Contact us today at (912) 634-0955 or fill out our contact form to discuss your case with an experienced St. Simons Island medical malpractice attorney. Let us guide you through the legal process while you focus on your recovery.
