Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional provides care that falls below an acceptable standard, causing avoidable harm to a patient. This can include misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, medication errors, or delays in treatment. If such failures have injured you, you can seek compensation through a medical negligence claim.
In Accrington, patients often rely on local healthcare providers such as Accrington Victoria Hospital, GP practices including Acorn Medical Centre, and services delivered by the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust. While most care is safe and effective, mistakes do happen. When they do, they can leave patients facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
Can I claim compensation for medical negligence in Accrington?
Yes, you may be able to claim compensation if a medical professional’s failure to meet their duty of care has harmed you. For example:
- A delayed diagnosis of cancer at a local clinic resulted in fewer treatment options
- A surgical error at a hospital within the East Lancashire NHS Trust
- Incorrect medication prescribed by a GP in Accrington
- Poor aftercare following an operation at Accrington Victoria Hospital
Marley Solicitors has supported clients across Lancashire, ensuring they receive the compensation and recognition they deserve after substandard medical treatment.
Common types of medical negligence claims
Medical negligence can arise in many different ways. Some of the most frequent types of claims include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis leading to avoidable complications
- Surgical errors such as operating on the wrong site or leaving instruments inside the body
- Medication mistakes, including wrong prescriptions or incorrect dosages
- Birth injuries affecting both mother and baby during labour and delivery
- Hospital-acquired infections can occur due to poor hygiene practices or inadequate care
- Negligent aftercare where patients are not monitored properly after treatment
For patients in Accrington, these issues can lead to further medical problems, extended recovery times, and, in some cases, permanent disability.
What compensation can I receive?
Compensation for medical negligence is intended to cover both financial losses and the wider impact on your life. The amount of compensation you may receive depends on the following factors:
- The severity of your injury or illness
- The cost of current and future medical treatment
- You may experience lost income if you are unable to work
- The need for medical care, rehabilitation services, or home adaptations is essential
- Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment in life
For example, someone misdiagnosed with a serious illness may need long-term treatment and regular monitoring. Another patient might suffer mobility problems after a surgical error and require home adaptations. These long-term needs are considered when calculating compensation.
How do I start a medical negligence claim in Accrington?
The process may feel daunting, but our solicitors make it straightforward:
- Free consultation – we discuss your case and advise whether you have grounds for a claim.
- Gathering evidence – we review your medical records, obtain expert opinions, and assess the impact of the negligence.
- Building your case – we prepare a strong claim with medical and legal evidence.
- Most cases resolve through negotiation, but if necessary, we will represent you in court.
Marley Solicitors provides clear guidance at every stage, supporting you through what can be a difficult and emotional process.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Accrington?
Our solicitors combine national expertise with local understanding. We know the services available in Accrington and the wider East Lancashire area, and we have successfully represented many clients who suffered due to substandard medical treatment.
By choosing Marley Solicitors, you benefit from:
- Personal support from a dedicated solicitor who understands medical negligence claims
- Access to medical experts who can provide detailed evidence for your case
- Clear communication and practical advice from start to finish
- A strong record of achieving fair outcomes for patients in Accrington and across Lancashire
Frequently asked questions
Could you please let me know the timeframe for filing a medical negligence claim in Accrington?
You usually have three years from the date of the negligence, or when you first realised you suffered harm, to bring a claim. Exceptions apply, for example, in cases involving children or adults without mental capacity.
Do I need to go to court for my medical negligence claim?
Many claims are settled through negotiation with the NHS or private healthcare providers. Court is only necessary if an agreement cannot be reached. If your case does go to court, Marley Solicitors will provide full representation.
How much compensation can I receive for medical negligence?
The amount depends on the type of injury and the effect on your life. Minor errors with quick recovery may result in smaller awards, while life-changing mistakes such as misdiagnosed cancer or serious surgical errors can lead to compensation in the hundreds of thousands, sometimes even millions, of pounds.
Local context: Medical services in Accrington
Patients in Accrington often receive initial treatment at Accrington Victoria Hospital, but more complex procedures may be referred to Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital or Burnley General Teaching Hospital. GP surgeries such as King Street Medical Centre provide everyday healthcare, while community rehabilitation services are available for longer-term recovery.
Understanding how these services operate locally allows our solicitors to build stronger claims. We ensure your case reflects not only the harm you suffered but also the treatment available in your community and the impact of receiving delayed or inadequate care.
Speak to Marley Solicitors today
If you have suffered because of medical negligence in Accrington, you do not have to face the consequences alone. Marley Solicitors offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explain your options. Our team is committed to securing fair compensation and supporting you through recovery.
Contact Marley Solicitors in Accrington today to speak with a specialist medical negligence solicitor and take the first step toward justice and peace of mind.
