Rochester Medical Malpractice Lawyers
People throughout Rochester regularly turn to hospitals, clinics and private practices with the expectation that they will receive thorough and appropriate care. Sadly, however, it is not uncommon for medical professionals to make grave mistakes that cause lasting harm. When medical professionals fail to meet their obligations, the consequences can be devastating for patients and their families, and they should be held responsible for the devastation caused by their negligence. If you or a loved one suffered due to inadequate or improper medical care, you may be owed damages, and you should consult an attorney. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced Rochester medical malpractice lawyers take pride in helping people harmed by medical negligence seek the compensation they deserve, and if we represent you, we will fight tirelessly on your behalf. We frequently aid people with medical malpractice claims in Syracuse, Rochester, and Upstate New York.
What Constitutes Medical MalpracticeMedical malpractice arises when a healthcare provider fails to provide what is considered acceptable care, resulting in harm to a patient. In New York, the standard of care is determined by what a competent medical professional with similar experience would have done under the same circumstances. Malpractice can occur in many forms, including misdiagnoses, errors during surgery, anesthesia complications, birth injuries, or improper treatment. Negligent acts or omissions in medical care can cause injuries that range from temporary harm to permanent disabilities and, in some cases, death.
Patients harmed by medical malpractice often face life-altering consequences. For instance, a delayed diagnosis of cancer can allow the disease to progress to an advanced stage, reducing the patient’s chance of survival. Surgical mistakes can lead to infections, internal damage, or the need for additional corrective procedures. Errors during childbirth can result in severe neurological damage to an infant, leaving families burdened with long-term care costs. Victims may experience not only physical harm but also emotional distress, financial strain, and an overall reduced quality of life.
Establishing Liability in Rochester Medical Malpractice CasesPeople harmed by incompetent medical care have the right to seek damages in medical malpractice cases. To establish medical malpractice in New York, a plaintiff must prove that a healthcare provider’s negligence directly caused the harm they suffered. This involves showing that the provider had an obligation to treat the patient in accordance with the standard of care, but the provider breached the accepted standard of care and that this breach resulted in actual injuries.
Demonstrating these elements often requires significant evidence and input from medical experts who can explain the proper standard of care and how the defendant’s actions deviated from it. For example, a cardiology expert may testify in a case where a patient’s heart condition was misdiagnosed, leading to preventable complications.
A party who proves they suffered injuries due to medical malpractice may recover damages to address the harm they endured. Economic damages include medical expenses for past and future treatment, rehabilitation costs, and lost income caused by the inability to work. Non-economic damages compensate victims for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving catastrophic injuries or permanent disabilities, compensation may also include long-term care costs and future wage losses. Although rare, punitive damages may be awarded when a healthcare provider’s conduct was reckless or willfully negligent, serving as a punishment and deterrent for similar behavior.
The process of proving malpractice and assessing damages is intricate and requires careful preparation, which is why partnering with skilled Rochester medical malpractice lawyers is crucial for achieving a successful outcome.
Consult Experienced Rochester Medical Malpractice Lawyers TodayMedical malpractice can leave victims facing immense physical, emotional, and financial challenges, but pursuing a claim against the responsible parties can feel overwhelming. If you were harmed by incompetent medical care, it is advisable to consult an attorney to evaluate your options. The experienced Rochester medical malpractice lawyers of DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers are committed to helping victims of negligent medical care seek the justice and compensation they deserve, and if we represent you, we will work tirelessly on your behalf. Our main office is in Syracuse and we serve clients in Rochester, Syracuse, and across Upstate New York. You can contact us online or call 833-200-2000 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.