Paralysis is one of the most devastating injuries a person can experience, often resulting in a lifetime of medical care, loss of independence, and significant emotional distress. In the most tragic cases, severe paralysis caused by medical malpractice can lead to death. When a preventable medical error results in catastrophic injury or death, the victims and their families deserve justice. Arizona law provides legal recourse for those affected by medical negligence. If you or a loved one has suffered from severe paralysis due to medical malpractice, contact the Phoenix medical malpractice lawyers at Knapp & Roberts to learn about your rights.
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Severe Paralysis from Medical Malpractice
How Knapp & Roberts Can Help With Your Severe Paralysis Claim in Phoenix
At Knapp & Roberts, we understand the profound impact that medical errors can have on a victim and their family. We offer:
- Over 20 years of experience handling medical malpractice claims in Arizona
- A proven track record of success, including multi-million dollar recoveries for victims of catastrophic injuries
- Access to top medical experts who can evaluate your case and provide critical testimony
- Compassionate, client-centered legal representation focused on achieving the best possible outcome
We offer free case consultations and only collect legal fees after successfully recovering compensation for our clients.
Understanding Severe Paralysis from Medical Malpractice
Paralysis occurs when a person loses muscle function in part or all of their body, typically due to spinal cord damage or severe brain injury. Medical malpractice can result in paralysis when healthcare providers fail to adhere to the standard of care. Common causes of malpractice-related paralysis include:
- Surgical Errors: Mistakes during spinal or brain surgery can cause irreversible damage, leading to total or partial paralysis.
- Anesthesia Errors: Mismanaged anesthesia can result in severe oxygen deprivation, leading to brain damage and paralysis.
- Failure to Diagnose or Treat Stroke: A delay in diagnosing or treating a stroke can cause severe neurological impairments, including paralysis.
- Mismanaged Childbirth Trauma: Errors during labor and delivery, such as improper use of forceps or failure to perform a timely C-section, can cause birth-related paralysis.
- Untreated Spinal Infections: Medical negligence in identifying or treating infections like meningitis or abscesses near the spine can result in permanent paralysis.
When Severe Paralysis Leads to Death
While paralysis itself is a life-altering condition, in some cases, complications from paralysis can be fatal. Patients with severe paralysis are at increased risk of:
- Respiratory Failure: Paralysis affecting the chest muscles can make breathing difficult, leading to fatal complications.
- Severe Infections: Bedsores, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia are common in paralyzed individuals and can become life-threatening if not properly treated.
- Cardiac Complications: Blood circulation issues in paralyzed individuals increase the risk of deadly blood clots and heart failure.
If a loved one has passed away due to complications from medical malpractice-induced paralysis, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.
Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim for Severe Paralysis in Phoenix
Arizona law allows victims of medical negligence to seek compensation for damages. To succeed in a medical malpractice case, the following must be proven:
- A doctor-patient relationship existed
- The medical provider failed to adhere to the accepted standard of care
- This failure directly resulted in severe paralysis or death
- The victim or their family suffered significant damages as a result
Most cases begin with a medical malpractice claim against the negligent healthcare provider’s insurance. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to court. Arizona has a two-year statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims, meaning you must take legal action within two years of the injury or death.
Compensation for Severe Paralysis and Wrongful Death Claims in Arizona
Victims of severe paralysis and their families may recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Rehabilitation and specialized care
- Loss of income and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Funeral and burial expenses (in cases of wrongful death)
Contact Knapp & Roberts for Experienced Representation
A severe paralysis injury caused by medical malpractice is a life-changing event, and when it leads to death, the emotional and financial burdens on families can be overwhelming. Knapp & Roberts is dedicated to helping victims and their loved ones pursue justice. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.