If you are thinking of claiming for a third or fourth degree tear, you need to speak to a legal expert without delay.
Expert legal advice for third degree tears
Third and fourth degree tears are serious injuries that can be sustained by a woman during childbirth. The incidence of such a tear does not in itself amount to medical negligence. Unfortunately they are a risk of vaginal deliveries and will affect around 9% of women. However, there may be a case of medical negligence if a third or fourth degree tear:-
- Is not diagnosed and repaired in a timely fashion;
- Is poorly repaired;
- Was caused by substandard medical care.
If you suspect you have been the innocent victim of medical negligence, you must speak to a solicitor as soon as possible. You need to contact a firm that not only specialises in medical negligence, but that also has a proven track record of dealing with third/fourth degree tear claims.
When you contact a solicitor, you will be asked about the details of the birth and the injuries you sustained. When all the information has been obtained, a solicitor will suggest whether you are in a position to make a medical negligence claim. It is important to speak to a solicitor without delay, as there is a three year time limit when claiming for medical negligence.
Making a claim for a third degree tear
If you are able to claim for a third degree tear (or a fourth degree tear), your solicitor will handle everything on your behalf. The claims process differs slightly from case to case, but generally your solicitor will need to:-
- Obtain your medical records;
- Take witness statements from you and, if appropriate, your loved ones;
- Ask medical experts to examine you and write a report upon your injuries;
- Ask a barrister for his/her expert opinion;
- Send a letter of claim to the other side expressing your intention to pursue a claim against them;
- Calculate an appropriate sum of damages;
- Negotiate a compensation settlement with the other side.
Your solicitor will be there to guide you through the process, explaining each stage as you go along. It is very unusual for a claim to end up in court, as both sides prefer to settle before court proceedings are necessary.
Contact us today
If you would like to make a claim for a third degree tear or a fourth degree tear, please get in touch with us today. We are specialists in this area of the law and will be more than happy to help you.
Free, No Obligation Enquiry
Call us now on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile click to call 01275 334030) or complete our Free Online Enquiry.
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