South Carolina Medical Malpractice Lawyer

South Carolina Medical Malpractice Attorney

When seeking medical care, patients place immense trust in healthcare providers to deliver competent and compassionate treatment. Unfortunately, medical mistakes can and do happen, often with devastating consequences. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, a South Carolina medical malpractice lawyer can help you get the justice and fair compensation you deserve.

At the Tatum Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll medical malpractice can take on individuals and families. With decades of experience, our team is committed to helping victims of medical negligence hold responsible parties accountable.

Why Choose the Tatum Law Firm, PLLC?

At the Tatum Law Firm, PLLC, we pride ourselves on offering compassionate legal representation paired with a relentless pursuit of justice. We know how challenging it is to navigate the aftermath of a medical injury, so we prioritize communication, transparency, and accessibility throughout your case. While you focus on recovering, we can focus on pursuing fair compensation for your injury and lost wages.

Our experience spans a variety of medical malpractice claims, including surgical errors, birth injuries, delayed diagnoses, and more. With a proven track record of success, we aim to secure a favorable outcome for every client so you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer consultations to prospective clients where you can learn more about the legal aspects of how you can be compensated following an injury.

Understanding Medical Malpractice in South Carolina

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care expected within their profession, resulting in harm to the patient. South Carolina law defines the standard of care as the level of skill and care that a reasonably competent professional with similar training would provide under comparable circumstances. Proving medical malpractice requires demonstrating that a provider’s negligence directly caused your injury.

Common examples of medical malpractice include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis: Failure to diagnose a condition in a timely manner can lead to worsened outcomes or preventable complications.
• Surgical errors: Mistakes during surgery can have life-threatening consequences, such as operating on the wrong body part or leaving surgical tools inside the patient.
• Medication errors: Incorrect prescriptions, improper dosages, or administering the wrong drug can cause serious harm.
• Birth injuries: Negligence during prenatal care, labor, or delivery can lead to permanent injuries for both mother and child.

South Carolina Medical Malpractice Laws

South Carolina imposes specific legal requirements and limitations on medical malpractice claims, making it essential to understand these laws when pursuing a case. Generally, the statute of limitations requires that medical malpractice cases be filed within three years of the date of the injury, its discovery, or when it reasonably should have been discovered.

Claims cannot be filed more than six years after the negligent act, regardless of when the injury was identified. Additionally, non-economic damages, such as compensation for pain and suffering, are subject to a cap in South Carolina medical malpractice cases. This cap may be periodically adjusted for inflation and applies to each claimant and defendant involved.

South Carolina law mandates that an affidavit from a qualified medical professional be submitted to validate claims of negligence when filing a case, ensuring that only substantiated cases proceed through the legal process.

What To Do if You Suspect Medical Malpractice

If you believe you have been a victim of medical malpractice, taking immediate and informed steps can strengthen your case and protect your rights. First, seek medical attention right away to address any ongoing health issues. Consulting another qualified healthcare provider ensures you receive proper care and establishes an accurate record of the harm caused by the malpractice.

Next, document everything related to your situation. Detailed records of your medical treatments, communications with providers, and expenses associated with the injury can serve as crucial evidence. These records help establish the extent of your damages and strengthen your claim.

Finally, consult an experienced medical malpractice attorney. These cases are complex and require in-depth investigation, physician testimony, and a clear understanding of the law. A skilled attorney can guide you through the process, help you meet legal deadlines, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Types of Medical Malpractice Cases We Handle

The Tatum Law Firm, PLLC, has extensive experience representing clients in a variety of medical malpractice cases. These include instances of misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, where overlooked or improperly diagnosed conditions cause patients to lose critical time for treatment.

Surgical errors are another common issue, with mistakes during procedures leading to infections, organ damage, or other life-threatening complications. Medication errors, such as incorrect prescriptions or dosages, can result in adverse drug reactions or ineffective treatment, further endangering patients.

Birth injuries, including those leading to conditions like cerebral palsy or Erb’s palsy, often stem from negligence during prenatal care or delivery. Additionally, anesthesia errors, such as mismanagement during procedures, can have devastating outcomes, including brain damage, cardiac arrest, or even death.

What Can I Be Compensated For?

There are a variety of damages a victim of medical malpractice can be compensated for in South Carolina. The most common forms of compensation include:

• Medical expenses, which cover the costs of additional treatment required to address the harm caused by the malpractice. This can also include future medical care if ongoing treatment is necessary.
• Lost wages if the malpractice resulted in time off work or a decreased ability to earn income.
• Pain and suffering is another form of compensation which addresses the physical and emotional distress caused by the malpractice.
• In some cases, you may receive compensation for loss of companionship or support if a loved one’s injuries or death were caused by medical negligence.
• If the malpractice was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter future misconduct.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Timing is critical in medical malpractice cases. South Carolina’s statute of limitations places strict deadlines on filing claims, and evidence may become harder to obtain over time. Consulting an attorney early on ensures your rights are protected and gives your legal team the necessary time to build a compelling case.

We understand the emotional and financial strain that medical malpractice can impose on victims and their families. That’s why the Tatum Law Firm, PLLC, approaches every case with empathy and dedication. Our goal is to provide not only legal support but also peace of mind as you navigate this challenging time.

FAQs

Q: How Much Can You Sue for Medical Malpractice in South Carolina?

A: In South Carolina, compensation for medical malpractice claims includes economic damages like medical bills and lost income, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering. Economic damages are uncapped, while non-economic damages have a statutory limit. The specific amount varies based on the details of each case, so consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is essential to evaluate your potential compensation.

Q: How Long Do You Have to File a Malpractice Suit in South Carolina?

A: In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims is generally three years from the date of the negligent act or omission. If the injury is not immediately discovered, the filing period may be extended but cannot exceed a specific time limit. It’s critical to act quickly and consult with an attorney to meet all legal deadlines.

Q: Does South Carolina Have a Medical Malpractice Cap?

A: South Carolina has a cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases, such as compensation for pain and suffering. This cap is applied per claimant and per defendant. There is no cap on economic damages like medical expenses and lost earnings. Legal guidance can help clarify how these caps may apply to your case.

Q: Can You Sue a Hospital in South Carolina?

A: Yes, hospitals in South Carolina may be sued for medical malpractice if their negligence or that of their staff caused harm. Common claims include improper hiring, inadequate staff training, or failure to maintain a safe environment. Establishing liability may require a thorough investigation and physician testimony, so working with an attorney is crucial for building a strong case.

Q: What Steps Should I Take After Experiencing Medical Malpractice in South Carolina?

A: If you suspect medical malpractice in South Carolina, first seek immediate medical care to address any ongoing issues. Document all related events and keep records of your medical treatments and expenses. Consulting an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and ensure all legal deadlines are met.

Schedule Your Medical Malpractice Consultation Today

From misdiagnoses and surgical errors to medication mishaps, the impact of medical malpractice can alter an injured victim’s life forever. When the future appears uncertain, you need a law firm that can hold the medical practitioner who caused your injury accountable. Medical malpractice cases are inherently complicated, and our founding attorney has helped many satisfied clients receive the compensation they are owed following a medical malpractice injury.

Don’t risk your recovery and financial stability. Our founding partner has been a successful and active litigator since 1998, and he understands what it takes to get results for his clients. He doesn’t rest until the responsible party is held accountable for their actions. Take the first step toward justice and the restoration of your finances by contacting our office today.