Bethel Park Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Ready to Fight for You

When you visit a doctor, hospital, or medical professional, you trust that they will provide safe, competent care. Unfortunately, mistakes happen, and when they do, the consequences can be life-changing. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a medical error, you may be entitled to compensation. At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., we provide compassionate and aggressive legal representation for victims of medical negligence. As your dedicated Bethel Park medical malpractice attorney, we fight to hold healthcare providers accountable and secure the justice you deserve.

Call (844) 383-0565 today to request a free case evaluation.

What is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional—such as a doctor, nurse, or hospital—fails to meet the accepted standard of care, and that failure results in harm to a patient. The “standard of care” refers to the level of treatment a reasonably skilled and competent medical provider would have given under similar circumstances.

Not every negative outcome amounts to malpractice. Medicine is not perfect, and some risks cannot be avoided. However, when an injury happens because of negligence, misdiagnosis, or avoidable errors, it may rise to the level of malpractice.

Common elements in a malpractice claim include:

1. Duty of care – The provider had a legal obligation to care for you.
2. Breach of duty – The provider acted negligently or failed to act appropriately.
3. Causation – The negligence directly caused your injury.
4. Damages – You suffered harm, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

Common Forms of Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice can take many different forms. Some of the most common types include:

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

Failing to diagnose a serious condition—or diagnosing it too late—can prevent a patient from receiving necessary treatment. For example, missing a cancer diagnosis in its early stages could lead to a worsened prognosis.

Surgical Errors

Mistakes in the operating room are often catastrophic. Surgical malpractice may involve operating on the wrong site, leaving surgical instruments inside the body, or performing the wrong procedure altogether.

Medication Errors

Incorrect prescriptions, wrong dosages, or harmful drug interactions can have severe, even fatal, consequences.

Birth Injuries

Negligence during pregnancy, labor, or delivery can result in lifelong conditions such as cerebral palsy, brain damage, or nerve injuries to the infant. Mothers may also suffer preventable harm.

Anesthesia Errors

Improper monitoring, incorrect dosage, or failure to identify allergies can cause severe brain damage, cardiac arrest, or death.

Hospital Negligence

Hospitals may be liable for poor sanitation, inadequate staffing, or improper training that contributes to patient harm.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has been a victim of one of these errors, contacting a Bethel Park medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible is critical.

Medical Malpractice Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has specific laws governing medical malpractice claims. Understanding these rules is essential to protecting your rights.

Statute of Limitations

In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date you knew or should have known about the malpractice to file a claim. However, there are exceptions, particularly for minors or cases involving fraud.

Certificate of Merit

Before filing a malpractice lawsuit, Pennsylvania law requires a certificate of merit. This document must be signed by a qualified medical professional stating that the claim has merit and that negligence likely occurred.

Damage Caps

Unlike some states, Pennsylvania does not cap compensatory damages in medical malpractice cases. However, punitive damages (intended to punish extreme misconduct) are capped at twice the amount of compensatory damages awarded.

Shared Fault

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found partially at fault for your own injuries, your compensation may be reduced. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.

Because medical malpractice claims are complex, having our Bethel Park medical malpractice attorney on your side ensures you understand and navigate these laws effectively.

Medical Malpractice FAQs

How do I know if I have a medical malpractice case?

If you suffered harm because of a healthcare provider’s negligence, you may have a case. The best way to know is by consulting with an experienced malpractice attorney.

What compensation can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, future care costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and more.

Do I need expert witnesses in a malpractice case?

Yes. Pennsylvania law requires testimony from medical experts to establish that malpractice occurred.

How long will my case take?

Medical malpractice cases are often complex and may take months or even years to resolve, depending on whether the case settles or goes to trial.

What should I do if I suspect malpractice?

Seek medical attention immediately to address any harm. Then, gather your medical records and contact a qualified Bethel Park medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact a Bethel Park Medical Malpractice Attorney Today

Medical professionals and hospitals should be held accountable when negligence causes serious harm. If you or a loved one has suffered because of a medical error, you do not have to face this battle alone.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.