subject: How Much Compensation For Cauda Equina Syndrome? [print this page] Due to the serious nature of the condition, those claiming for Cauda Equina medical negligence can expect to receive a substantial sum of compensation. Although financial redress will never undo the damage that has been caused, it is intended to at least recompense for the pain and suffering felt by the claimant and their loved ones, as well as to reimburse any finances lost as a direct result of medical error.
In this article we take a look at how much compensation you could stand to receive if you have been the victim of Cauda Equina negligence.
Calculating compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
If you have had Cauda Equina Syndrome which you believe was negligently handled by medical professionals, you could be entitled to make a claim for the damages you have incurred. This may include, for example, if you sustained further injuries because the condition was not diagnosed in a timely fashion or because treatment was not provided by way of emergency.
Should your claim be successful, you will be awarded a sum of compensation. All medical negligence compensation settlements are made up of two elements: general damages and special damages.
General damages reflect the pain, suffering and loss of amenity experienced by you and your loved ones. The injuries caused as a result of Cauda Equina negligence are often extremely serious, with incontinence and paralysis a very real possibility. Evidently these will have a devastating impact upon your life, completely turning your world upside down. You may no longer be able to work, look after your children, take part in your hobbies or socialise with friends. The loss of amenity will therefore be regarded as severe, as will the extent of pain and suffering (both physical and emotional). Thus the sum of general damages will be high.
Special damages reflect the financial loss you have incurred because of your injuries.
This is likely to be a significant amount, as it is likely your ability to work will either be severely hindered or entirely prevented. Furthermore, you may have had to spend money on specialist equipment and/or treatment, travel to receive this treatment and employ people to help you around the house. Your solicitor will calculate these costs in a schedule of damages and, because of your future loss of earnings, the sum is again likely to be very high.
How much compensation for Cauda Equina claims?
Every medical negligence claim is different and so it is not possible to say exactly how much compensation you will receive for your Cauda Equina negligence. However, as discussed above, the sum of both general and special damages is likely to be substantial. Our most recent case saw a 96,000 settlement for a lady who suffered permanent injuries due to a delay in treatment. Even so, it is important to remember that each compensation settlement is intended to reflect the damages sustained, so will be determined by your individual set of circumstances.
