When a loved one undergoes a routine procedure, you’re likely already thinking about what you will do when they are discharged from the hospital. However, these plans can become derailed when the doctors inform you that your loved one passed away during the operation. This tragedy is only made worse by the fact that their death was completely avoidable and occurred as the result of medical malpractice. If you have to file a wrongful death claim, you’ll want to keep reading to learn more about how this occurs. You’ll also discover why you need a Houston, Texas wrongful death lawyer on your side.
What Is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death refers to the criminal and/or civil legal action taken against another party or party when their negligent actions directly resulted in the death of another person. It is most commonly associated with personal injury and medical malpractice cases.
Any healthcare provider that makes a decision or error that directly leads to the untimely death of another can be found liable for wrongful death. This can occur in all medical fields, like those who work in nursing homes, operating rooms, or the intensive care unit, among other healthcare practices.
How Does This Happen?
There are a number of ways that medical malpractice can lead to wrongful death. This includes the following situations:
- A doctor fails to diagnose a condition
- A doctor makes a surgical error
- Too much anesthetic is administered during surgery
- A healthcare provider forgot about or was inattentive toward a patient
- The wrong drug is prescribed
- A doctor provides an incorrect or delayed diagnosis
It’s essential to note that these are not the only examples of medical malpractice that can result in a fatality, but some of the most common issues that arise.
What Should I Do if a Loved One Is the Victim of Wrongful Death?
If a loved one has passed away due to a negligent or malicious error by a doctor or healthcare provider, ensuring you take the correct steps is vital to ensuring you can receive justice on their behalf. Ensure you keep all medical records from your loved one, as these can be beneficial later in the lawsuit.
The most vital thing you must do when pursuing a wrongful death claim against a hospital or healthcare provider is to hire an experienced medical malpractice attorney. Unfortunately, proving the death was contingent on malpractice can be complex, making it even more crucial for an experienced attorney to take control of the case.
When you need a law group that isn’t afraid to fight hospital lawyers on your behalf, Davis & Davis is ready. Our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to help you receive justice for the death of your loved one. Contact us today to learn how we can help you during this extremely tragic time.