When it comes to medical malpractice cases, you will hear about three different kinds of compensation. In the video below, Bostwick & Peterson LLP founder James S. Bostwick explains these types of compensation in common medical malpractice cases and how they help you understand medical malpractice damages.
Understanding Medical Malpractice Damages
Economic Damages
If you have suffered an injury due to medical negligence, you may be unable to work and will need extensive medical care. You may be entitled to receive compensation for economic damages; these can cover things such as:
- Medical Care: This includes all current and future medical expenses related to the injury, such as surgeries, therapies, and medications.
- Nurse-Attended Care: If the injury requires ongoing assistance from a nurse or caregiver, these costs may also be compensated.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for loss of income because of the injury, including the inability to work temporarily or permanently.
“Compensation for economic damages helps you with earnings you’ve lost in the past so you can have enough to take care of yourself in the future.”
- James S. Bostwick
Founder of Bostwick & Peterson
Non-Economic Damages
Undergoing a life-altering injury can cause turmoil beyond finances. Victims of injuries caused by medical malpractice suffer great emotional pain that can include but is not limited to:
- Increased Depression and Anxiety: Adjusting to the aftermath of the injury can significantly affect mental health.
- Pain and Suffering: Both physical and emotional pain resulting from the injury are considered.
- Humiliation: The emotional distress and loss of dignity that can occur, especially in cases involving disfigurement or disability.
- Changes to Quality of Life: For example, a patient who loses a leg and can no longer walk may face significant limitations in daily activities and personal enjoyment.
These are all considered non-economic damages, recognizing the profound impact an injury can have on a person’s emotional and psychological well-being.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are a rare occurrence in medical malpractice cases. Unlike economic or non-economic damages, punitive damages are not intended to compensate the victim but to penalize a medical professional for egregious misconduct.
These damages are typically awarded in cases where a healthcare provider’s actions go beyond negligence—such as performing medical procedures under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They serve as a strong warning to prevent similar behavior and uphold standards in the medical profession.
Medical Malpractice Attorneys Who Are There Every Step of the Way
The medical malpractice attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson LLP represent clients in negligence cases by physicians, surgeons, dentists, nurses, psychiatrists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. With a proven track record of success in the courtroom, our attorneys are dedicated advocates for medical malpractice victims.
If you are ready to take the first step in your case, we encourage you to contact Bostwick & Peterson LLP today. Our San Francisco medical malpractice attorneys are here to guide you through this challenging time with compassion and expertise, working tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.