The current crisis in Washington DC medical malpractice law is common knowledge. From attorneys, to medical professionals, to the average person on the street, it is well known that the nation is experiencing an overuse and abuse of the medical malpractice laws. This has led to clogged court dockets, wasted tax dollars, and a decline in the confidence of the average citizen in the legal system of this country.

Except that it’s not true.

What is true is that medical mistakes account for a remarkable number of deaths each year – more, even, than auto accidents. What is also true is that recent research has found that nearly all medical malpractice lawsuits filed in this country have merit, and are based on a serious and significant error in care resulting in injury or death. The idea that the majority of medical malpractice lawsuits are the product of trial lawyers’ imaginations (and, some would say, avarice) has been effectively disseminated by the insurance industry in the hopes of generating “reform” that includes stricter limits on the criteria for filing a case. While the overarching public perception is that these types of reforms would be aimed at providing necessary limits on attorneys, in fact the primary beneficiaries would be the insurance companies who provide malpractice insurance to medical professionals: fewer suits means fewer settlements.

It is clear to see who gains, but who loses?

The average citizen, of course. When explained in simple terms, who among us would be in favor of limiting the legal options of those affected by a phenomenon that kills more individuals than auto accidents? Taking also into account the recent findings that virtually all medical malpractice cases have merit and are not frivolous, the choice is a no-brainer. Medical malpractice laws are essential to retaining the checks and balances in our medical system. So don’t be fooled, and don’t be hesitant to exercise your rights if you’ve been the victim of a medical mistake.

If you or someone you know has suffered due to the negligence of a physician or other medical professional, we can help! Contact a Silver Spring medical malpractice lawyer for a Free Case Evaluation today!