When we seek medical care, we place our trust in doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers. Most of the time, this trust is well placed, and patients receive safe and effective treatment. But when mistakes happen—whether through negligence, misdiagnosis, or surgical errors—the consequences can be life-changing. That’s where Hawaii medical malpractice lawyer comes in.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional fails to meet the accepted standard of care, and that failure results in harm to the patient. Common examples include:
Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
Surgical errors or wrong-site surgery
Medication errors
Birth injuries
Failure to order necessary tests or treatment
Not every bad medical outcome qualifies as malpractice. To have a valid claim, the care provided must fall below the accepted medical standard, and that failure must directly cause harm.
Hawaii’s Medical Malpractice Laws
Every state has unique laws that govern medical malpractice claims, and Hawaii is no exception. Some important points to keep in mind include:
Statute of Limitations: In Hawaii, you generally have two years from the date of the injury—or when the injury was discovered—to file a medical malpractice lawsuit.
Mandatory Medical Inquiry and Conciliation Panel: Before filing a lawsuit, claims must go before this panel, which reviews the case and tries to facilitate settlement.
Damages: Hawaii law places limits on certain types of damages, such as non-economic damages (pain and suffering).
Understanding these rules is crucial, which is why having an experienced Hawaii medical malpractice lawyer is essential.
Why You Need a Hawaii Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Medical malpractice cases are among the most complex types of personal injury claims. They often require:
Expert testimony from medical professionals
Extensive investigation into medical records and treatment history
Strategic negotiation with insurance companies and defense attorneys
A skilled attorney can help determine whether you have a viable claim, guide you through Hawaii’s legal requirements, and fight for the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
Taking the Next Step
If you or a loved one has suffered because of medical negligence in Hawaii, you don’t have to navigate this difficult journey alone. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can stand by your side, protect your rights, and hold negligent providers accountable.