Nothing can be more tragic than the death of a loved one in preventable circumstances, particularly when it occurs in a medical setting where they are expected to receive the best possible care and treatment.
In June 2022, a beautiful 6 year old girl died 6- year-old girl died after a needle pierced a major artery during a biopsy, at renowned Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, during a relatively minor procedure to investigate a suspected blood condition. An inquest heard that a warning sign that something had gone wrong during the procedure was not acted upon, and ultimately Amelia Ridout went into cardiac arrest and died during emergency surgery to fix the bleed. Her death could have been prevented through the exercise of proper medical intervention when a suspected issue arose during the procedure but was not followed up or treated at the time. Her family have been left devastated.
Medical Negligence Death Claims
In medical negligence law, ‘ death by negligence’ leaves nothing by way of compensation for the deceased, but some of their family members may be entitled to compensation as arising from the death of their loved ones for the following:
- Mental harm– if they have suffered a recognised psychiatric illness, they can claim for their pain and suffering and any impact on their ability to earn an income, for their care and assistance needs and for their future treatment and other needs.
- Compensation to Relatives Act claim– if there was a level of dependency on the deceased, eligible persons ( spouses, siblings including half siblings, parents and children of the deceased) can bring a claim, as one claim on behalf of whoever is eligible. This can include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support that would otherwise have been derived from the deceased’s earnings and for the loss of care and assistance and domestic support that the deceased would have provided ( for example, cooking, gardening, child support) to the household.
There are several factors that must be taken into account to calculate these losses and often, expert opinion is sought to enable an accurate assessment of any claim for compensation. Additionally, the law has fluctuated with respect to certain aspects of what may be claimed within a Compensation to Relatives Act claim, leaving the door open to some uncertainty in the area. It is important to seek expert legal opinion to navigate the eligibility criteria for these compensation claims so as to ensure that maximum compensation follows for all deserving family members.
Stacks Goudkamp Experts In Medical Negligence Death Claims
Losing a loved one due to negligent medical treatment is a devastating and deeply emotional experience. The legal process of medical negligence death claims can be complex and overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. At Stacks Goudkamp, we understand the profound impact that medical negligence can have on families, and we are committed to providing compassionate and expert legal support to help you navigate this difficult journey.
Our experienced medical negligence lawyers have a proven track record of successfully handling claims arising from wrongful death due to medical negligence. We will carefully assess your case, ensure that all eligible family members receive the compensation they deserve, and guide you through each step of the legal process with clarity and care.
By choosing Stacks Goudkamp, you can trust that your claim will be handled with sensitivity, diligence, and a deep understanding of the medical negligence death claims. We work tirelessly to hold medical professionals and institutions accountable, ensuring that justice is served for your loved one and that you receive the financial support you need during this difficult time.
If you have lost a loved one due to medical negligence, we encourage you to reach out to us for a confidential consultation. Let us help you secure the justice and compensation your family deserves.
