At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we understand that entrusting your health to medical professionals is a profound act of faith. When that trust is violated due to negligence, the consequences can be life-altering.
As a dedicated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer, we are committed to advocating for victims of medical negligence, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Understanding Medical Malpractice in Baltimore
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from the accepted standard of care, harming the patient. This can encompass a range of errors, including misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, medication errors, and more.
In Maryland, medical malpractice is a pressing concern with significant implications for patient safety and trust in the healthcare system.
Maryland’s Medical Malpractice Landscape
Maryland consistently ranks among the top states with the highest medical malpractice payouts. In 2023 alone, there were 248 medical malpractice claims in Maryland, resulting in total settlement payouts of approximately $101.9 million.
These figures highlight the prevalence of medical negligence and underscore the importance of holding healthcare providers accountable.
Key Maryland Medical Malpractice Laws
Navigating a medical malpractice claim in Maryland requires understanding specific legal statutes designed to protect patients:
Certificate of Qualified Expert
Maryland law mandates that plaintiffs submit a certificate from a qualified medical expert within 90 days of filing a medical malpractice lawsuit. This certificate must attest that the healthcare provider failed to meet the accepted standard of care, causing the patient’s injuries.
Statute of Limitations
In Maryland, patients must file a medical malpractice lawsuit within five years of the injury or three years from the date the injury was discovered, whichever comes first.
Non-Economic Damages Cap
Maryland imposes a cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases. Non-economic damages, which include pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life, are capped at $800,000.
The Impact of Medical Malpractice
The ramifications of medical malpractice extend beyond the immediate physical harm. Victims often face emotional distress, financial burdens due to additional medical expenses, and a diminished quality of life. Nationally, medical errors are estimated to result in approximately 250,000 deaths annually, making them the third leading cause of death in the United States.
Our Commitment to Victims
At Holzman & Dickriede, we have a longstanding history of securing substantial verdicts and settlements for injury victims throughout the Baltimore Metro area. Our approach is client-centric, ensuring that each case receives the personalized attention it deserves.
We understand the complexities of medical malpractice cases and are dedicated to guiding our clients through every step of the legal process.
Why Choose Us as Your Baltimore Medical Malpractice Lawyer
- Experience: With decades of experience, we have a deep understanding of Maryland’s medical malpractice laws and a proven track record of successful outcomes.
- Personalized Attention: We recognize that every case is unique. Our team provides tailored legal strategies to meet each client’s specific needs.
- Comprehensive Representation: Our experience extends beyond medical malpractice to personal injury, auto accidents, workers’ compensation, and wrongful death cases.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Medical Malpractice
If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, it’s crucial to act promptly:
- Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by obtaining medical care to address injuries or complications.
- Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, communications with healthcare providers, and related expenses.
- Consult a Qualified Attorney: Engage with a knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney to evaluate the merits of your case and guide you through the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions: Baltimore Medical Malpractice Cases
1. What qualifies as medical malpractice in Maryland?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, harming a patient. This includes misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, medication errors, anesthesia errors, birth injuries, and failure to treat a condition properly. Not all bad medical outcomes are malpractice—there must be apparent negligence that directly caused harm.
2. How do I prove medical malpractice in Baltimore?
To prove medical malpractice, you must establish four key elements:
- Duty of care – The healthcare provider had a professional obligation to treat you.
- Breach of duty – They failed to provide the expected standard of care.
- Causation – The negligence directly caused your injury or worsened your condition.
- Damages – You suffered physical, financial, or emotional harm as a result.
3. Can I sue any medical professional for malpractice?
If negligence occurs, medical malpractice claims can be filed against doctors, nurses, surgeons, anesthesiologists, pharmacists, dentists, hospitals, and even nursing homes.
4. Do all medical malpractice cases go to trial?
No, many cases are resolved through settlements before reaching trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and fight for maximum compensation.
5. What types of compensation can I recover?
Victims of medical malpractice can recover:
- Economic damages – Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care.
- Non-economic damages – Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
- Punitive damages – These are Rare but awarded in cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm.
6. How long do I have to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in Baltimore?
Maryland law requires that a lawsuit be filed within five years of the malpractice incident or three years from when the injury was discovered—whichever comes first. Delaying action may result in losing your right to compensation.
7. What if I signed a consent form before treatment?
Signing a consent form does not waive your right to file a medical malpractice claim. If a doctor or hospital acted negligently, they can still be held accountable despite a signed consent form.
8. How much does hiring a medical malpractice attorney in Baltimore cost?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. Our firm covers all upfront costs and only gets paid if you receive compensation.
9. How do I start my medical malpractice claim?
Contact us for a free consultation. We will review your case, assess your options, and help you understand the best option for seeking justice and compensation.
Call Today for Help with Your Claim
Medical malpractice can have devastating effects on victims and their families. At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we are steadfast in our commitment to advocating for those affected by medical negligence.
As your trusted Baltimore medical malpractice lawyers, we strive to ensure that justice is served and that our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by medical malpractice, we invite you to contact us for a comprehensive consultation. Together, we can navigate the path to justice and healing.
