When we put our health in the hands of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, we expect a safe and professional standard of care. For most patients in Blackpool, that trust is justified. But when medical mistakes happen, the consequences can be devastating. Medical negligence can leave people with long-term injuries, emotional trauma, or financial pressures they never anticipated.
If you or a loved one has suffered because of poor medical treatment, you may have grounds to make a claim. At Marley Solicitors, we provide clear, supportive legal advice to clients in Blackpool and across Lancashire, helping you understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
What is medical negligence?
Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional provides treatment that falls below the expected standard, and that failure causes harm. It is not enough that something simply went wrong. To prove negligence, it must be shown that the medical care was inadequate and that the failure directly led to avoidable injury or illness.
Examples of medical negligence include:
- Failure to diagnose serious conditions such as cancer or heart disease in time
- Mistakes during surgery, from operating on the wrong site to leaving instruments inside a patient
- Incorrect prescriptions or dosage errors that cause illness or injury
- Failing to obtain proper consent before treatment
- Substandard maternity care during pregnancy, labour, or immediately after birth
- Poor hygiene standards leading to preventable infections in hospitals or care facilities
These errors can happen in large hospitals, GP surgeries, private clinics, or care homes across Blackpool and the surrounding area.
The impact of medical negligence
The effects of medical negligence can be life-changing, both for patients and for their families. In some cases, the outcome is added pain or a longer recovery. In others, it can result in permanent disability or the tragic loss of life. Consequences often include:
- Prolonged illness or unnecessary suffering
- The need for additional surgery or corrective treatment
- Long-term physical or psychological disability
- Loss of income if the patient is unable to return to work
- The cost of rehabilitation, adaptations at home, or ongoing care needs
- Emotional strain on families supporting an injured loved one
While compensation cannot undo what has happened, it can provide the financial support needed to rebuild and move forward.
Common examples in Blackpool
In Blackpool, medical negligence claims often arise from issues at both local GP practices and larger hospitals. Examples include:
- Patients receiving delayed diagnoses at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, meaning serious illnesses progress before treatment begins
- Surgical errors requiring further operations to correct the mistake
- Mothers and babies suffering complications due to inadequate maternity care
- Care home residents facing harm from poor supervision or neglect
These examples highlight why specialist legal advice is so important when healthcare standards fall short.
How to prove medical negligence
In order to initiate a claim, you need to demonstrate three key elements:
- Duty of care – The healthcare provider had a duty to care for you.
- Breach of duty – The care you received fell below a reasonable professional standard.
- Causation – That breach of duty caused you harm or worsened your condition.
Independent medical experts are often instructed to assess your records and give an opinion on whether the treatment was negligent. Marley Solicitors handles this process for you, ensuring the strongest possible evidence is put forward.
The claims process
Making a medical negligence claim can seem daunting, but the process is clear and structured. It typically involves:
- Free initial consultation – We discuss your case and assess whether you may have a valid claim.
- Gathering records – Your medical notes and treatment history are obtained for review.
- Independent assessment – Medical experts are asked to give their opinion on the standard of care provided.
- Letter of claim – A formal letter is sent to the hospital, GP, or healthcare provider setting out the allegations.
- Response – The healthcare provider must respond, either admitting or denying fault.
- Resolution – Many claims are settled through negotiation, though court proceedings are an option if no agreement can be reached.
Throughout the process, Marley Solicitors guide you step by step, keeping you informed and supported.
Time limits for making a claim
You must initiate most medical negligence claims within three years of the incident or from the moment you first suspected negligence. For children, the three-year limit begins on their 18th birthday. For adults without mental capacity, the time limit may not apply until capacity is regained.
It is important to act quickly, as evidence is easier to gather when records and recollections are fresh.
What compensation can cover
Compensation is designed to reflect both the harm suffered and the financial impact of medical negligence. It usually falls into two categories:
- General damages – For the pain, suffering, and disruption to your life caused by the negligence.
- Special damages – For measurable financial losses, such as lost wages, treatment costs, travel expenses, and the cost of care or home adaptations.
For example, a Blackpool resident left unable to work after a delayed diagnosis might claim general damages for the avoidable suffering, and special damages for lost income and the cost of ongoing care.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Blackpool?
Medical negligence claims require specialist knowledge and sensitivity. Clients in Blackpool choose Marley Solicitors because we offer:
- Local expertise and familiarity with healthcare services in Lancashire
- A supportive, client-focused approach during difficult times
- Clear explanations of complex legal and medical issues
- A track record of achieving successful outcomes in negligence cases
We understand the strain that comes with medical mistakes, and we are here to help you pursue justice with confidence.
FAQs
How long does a medical negligence claim take?
The time varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether the healthcare provider accepts responsibility. Some claims settle in under a year, while more complex disputes may take longer.
Can I claim on behalf of a family member?
Yes. If your loved one is under 18, lacks mental capacity, or has died as a result of negligence, you may be able to bring a claim on their behalf.
Take action today
If you believe you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence in Blackpool, do not face it alone. Marley Solicitors provides expert legal advice and local support, ensuring your case is handled with care and determination.
Contact our team today to discuss your situation. With our knowledge of Blackpool and our commitment to securing fair outcomes, you can take the next step toward justice and rebuilding your life.
