When you go into the doctor’s office, whether for a routine visit or because you need an operation, the last thing you expect is to come out feeling worse than you went in. Unfortunately, for many, this is the reality due to medical malpractice. If you were injured due to the negligence of a medical professional and can no longer do the things you once did, you may be eligible to receive compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life you experience with the help of a Harris County, Texas medical malpractice lawyer. The following blog explores this concept in more detail.
How Can Loss of Enjoyment of Life Occur?
If injured due to another person’s negligence, you may be unable to do the things that once bought you joy. Though this generally occurs in traditional personal injury cases like car accidents and premises liability litigation, those who are injured by a medical professional may also experience this loss.
For example, if a doctor fails to diagnose diabetes, it may progress to the point where a limb must be amputated. As a result, you may be unable to do certain activities you once enjoyed. Similarly, if prescribed the incorrect medication, it may cause permanent conditions that make it impossible to live the life you used to.
How Are These Damages Calculated?
Generally, when someone is sued, there are two categories in which the plaintiff can receive compensation. This includes economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are quantifiable, such as medical expenses related to the injury, physical therapy, and lost income due to taking time off work to heal.
Non-economic damages include things like physical and emotional pain and loss of enjoyment of life. Though these are more subjective than economic damages, you may still be able to receive compensation for the damages you’re experiencing. Generally, the courts will look at the severity of the injury, how old and healthy the injured party is, and if this is a permanent impairment. For example, if a college athlete has cardiovascular complications after a medication error, they may be unable to continue playing their sport. As a result, they will likely suffer the loss of enjoyment of life because they can no longer participate in the activity due to an error due because of the medical professional. The courts will likely calculate a reasonable amount to help cover these damages.
If you are suffering due to the negligence of a medical professional you entrusted to treat you, you should consider pursuing financial compensation. At Davis & Davis, we understand how devastating injuries can be, especially when they are caused by someone who is supposed to heal you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help fight for you through this challenging time.
