Injured In Utah

Just as you were a seatbelt and rely on airbags to protect yourself against the mistakes of other drivers, you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of becoming a medical malpractice victim, or reduce the harm if you do become a victim.

First, and foremost, you should always get a second opinion in serious medical matters or if the problem you are having isn't going away despite numerous treatments. Also, talk to your doctor! The more information you give him and the more questions you ask the better he or she will be able to help you get well. Additionally, there are several websites which you can use to give your doctor his own check up:

* Find out if your doctor is board certified.
* Find out if your doctor has a current state license.
* Find out if your doctor has been sanctioned.

Second, you or your loved one may not be aware that the doctor made a mistake. Signs that you may be the victim of medical malpractice include:

* Recovery time longer than originally anticipated
* Unforseen complications
* Sudden need for 'specialist' intervention
* Surgery takes much longer than expected
* Ailment or illness which doctor initially misdiagnosis
* Ailment or illness which lingers despite numerous treatments
* Another doctor tells you the outcome from treatment could have been better

An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can usually tell you if there is a case and should be consulted quickly in order to avoid a statute of limitations problem or destruction of evidence.

Finally, if your treatment happened within the last ten days, send a written letter to your healthcare provider/facility which revokes your previously signed agreement to arbitrate. Sadly, many doctors are now requiring their patients to sign agreements to give up their right to file a lawsuit against them. If you signed such an agreement, you may be forced to have your claim arbitrated outside the traditional judicial process. Under these circumstances, a panel of arbitrators will determine your rights and damages instead of a judge and jury. In order to preserve your right to a jury, send written notice that you are revoking your previous signed agreement.