What is a failure to diagnose a concussion?
A concussion occurs when the brain sustains an injury caused by a blow to the head or violent shaking. The injury temporarily disrupts normal brain function, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, nausea, memory difficulties, and behavioral changes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent complications and ensure effective recovery.
However, healthcare professionals sometimes overlook concussion symptoms, mistakenly diagnosing them as minor or unrelated issues. This medical error can delay essential treatment and lead to persistent problems, including prolonged cognitive impairment, emotional distress, ongoing physical symptoms, and in severe cases, lasting brain damage.
Can you claim compensation for failure to diagnose a concussion?
Yes, you may be eligible to claim compensation if your healthcare provider's negligence or mistake caused a delay or failure in diagnosing your concussion. Medical professionals have a duty of care to properly assess, diagnose and treat patients presenting symptoms consistent with concussion. Failure to uphold this standard constitutes substandard care or medical negligence.
To establish a claim, it must be proved that:
- The medical professional owed you a duty of care
- They breached that duty by failing to diagnose your concussion, falling below acceptable standards
- The failure to diagnose led directly to harm, injury or prolonged suffering
Our experienced medical negligence solicitors at Stephensons can offer specialist advice and guidance, clearly explaining the claims process, and support you every step of the way.
Why choose us for your concussion misdiagnosis claim?
Stephensons Solicitors LLP has a proven track record in successfully supporting clients in complex medical negligence claims, including brain injury misdiagnosis cases. Our solicitors have specialist expertise and extensive experience representing those who have suffered due to delayed or missed concussion diagnoses.
Choosing Stephensons ensures you have access to highly qualified solicitors accredited by respected independent bodies such as The Law Society. We pride ourselves on delivering compassionate, efficient and professional legal representation, dedicated entirely to securing you the compensation and recognition you deserve.
We also operate on a 'no win no fee' basis, which means you will not pay any upfront fees or costs if your claim is unsuccessful. Our primary goal is to ensure you have the expert legal representation you deserve without the additional worry or financial risk.
How we can help with your concussion misdiagnosis claim
When you instruct Stephensons, we will begin by thoroughly reviewing your medical history and circumstances, gathering evidence from specialist medical experts to demonstrate negligence clearly. Our dedicated and approachable solicitors will then handle all communications with the relevant healthcare providers and their insurers on your behalf, relieving stress from you and your family.
Our team will assess your claim's full value, reflecting not only your pain and suffering but any financial impact, including loss of earnings, expenses for ongoing treatment, rehabilitation and support needs. We aim to secure maximum compensation for you, enabling you to focus on recovery and rebuilding your life.
Contact us today
If you or a loved one has suffered unnecessarily due to a doctor's failure to diagnose concussion, contact Stephensons today. Call us on 0161 696 6165 to speak confidentially with a specialist medical negligence solicitor or fill in our enquiry form for a callback at your convenience.
Frequently asked questions about concussion misdiagnosis claims
How long do I have to claim compensation?
Generally, you have three years from the date of negligence or date you became aware of it. There are exceptions, so it is vital to seek legal advice as early as possible to avoid missing this deadline.
How much compensation could I receive for a concussion misdiagnosis?
Compensation amounts vary depending on factors such as the severity of injury, impact on your life, loss of income, and future care requirements. Our solicitors will provide you with more specific advice tailored to your circumstances once we review your case.
Will I need to go to court?
The majority of medical negligence claims settle out of court via negotiation. However, we prepare each case meticulously, ensuring we are ready to represent your interests professionally and effectively, should a court hearing become necessary.