Important Medical Malpractice Statistics for Injured Victims to Be Aware Of

 When you are involved in a medical malpractice case, it can feel overwhelming. However, it is important to understand that the law is on your side and the medical malpractice statistics are in your favor. If you have suffered from a misdiagnosis, surgical error, hospital negligence, medication error, or other form of medical malpractice, an attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve. The following are some of the medical malpractice statistics from 2012 to help give you a little hope during this difficult time.

Payouts

During 2012, $3.6 billion was paid to 12,142 victims of medical malpractice. This represents a payment every 43 minutes. Only 5 percent of these payouts resulted from jury verdicts. The rest were obtained through settlement before trial.

Locations

Medical malpractice claims were filed in every state in the nation in 2012. However, the number of claims for medical malpractice were especially high in New York, Florida, Pennsylvania, California, and New Jersey.

Injuries

According to medical malpractice statistics, certain claims were more severe, and therefore warranted higher settlements and verdicts, than others. The following injuries are listed in the order of their severity:

  • Death
  • Significant permanent injury
  • Major permanent injury
  • Quadriplegia with brain damage
  • Minor permanent injury
  • Major temporary injury
  • Minor temporary injury
  • Emotional injury only
  • Insignificant injury

If you are currently suffering from one of these medical problems due to an error by a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, anesthesiologist, or other medical professional, it is important to seek help from a qualified attorney. He or she can get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries and help improve your quality of life. Contact The Law Offices of Friedman & Friedman by calling (305) 446-6485 (toll free 800-446-6482) now if you have suffered an injury due to medical negligence. We offer a FREE consultation in medical malpractice cases.