Washington Medical Malpractice Case Value Calculator

Medical malpractice damages include economic losses (extra medical costs from the malpractice, lost earnings) plus non-economic damages (pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life). Many states cap non-economic damages at $250,000–$750,000. Expert witnesses are required to prove the standard of care was breached.

U.S. medical malpractice settlements average $250,000–$750,000, with serious cases involving permanent disability or wrongful death often exceeding $1 million. Jury verdicts can be significantly higher but are subject to state caps on non-economic damages.

In Washington, you have 3 years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to recover — act promptly and consult an attorney before the deadline approaches.

Strong malpractice cases have: a clear departure from the standard of care, direct causation between the negligence and documented harm, significant measurable damages, and an expert witness willing to testify. Surgery errors, missed cancer diagnoses, and birth injuries tend to yield the highest settlements.