When you see a doctor, you trust them to take care of you—not make things worse. Unfortunately, some medical mistakes cause lasting harm. If you’re wondering whether your injury was caused by medical malpractice, you’re not alone.
In this guide, a Pasadena medical malpractice lawyer explains how to recognize the signs of malpractice, what makes a valid case, and what to do next.
Table of Contents
- What Is Medical Malpractice?
- Common Signs You May Have a Case
- Real-Life Example: Abby Lee Miller’s Case
- How a Pasadena Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help
- Next Steps If You Suspect Medical Malpractice
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion & Free Consultation
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice happens when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, and that failure causes injury. Common examples include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Surgical mistakes
- Medication errors
- Failure to order necessary tests or follow up
- Inadequate monitoring during or after treatment
Just because something went wrong doesn’t always mean you have a case—but serious errors that cause harm may qualify as malpractice.
Common Signs You May Have a Case
If any of these situations sound familiar, you should speak with a medical malpractice lawyer:
- Your condition got worse after treatment
- You received conflicting diagnoses from different doctors
- A procedure had unexpected complications that weren’t explained
- Medical staff were evasive, dismissive, or refused to answer questions
- Another doctor questioned your prior care
Real-Life Example: Abby Lee Miller’s Case
In 2024, former Dance Moms star Abby Lee Miller filed a medical malpractice lawsuit after discovering a catheter had been left inside her body—for four years—following spinal surgery at a Los Angeles hospital. She’s now suing Cedars-Sinai for $1.4 million in damages.
This case highlights how even well-known hospitals can make devastating mistakes. You can read the full story here:
👉 People.com: Abby Lee Miller Files Medical Malpractice Lawsuit
How a Pasadena Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help
Malpractice cases are complex. To win, you must prove:
- A doctor-patient relationship existed
- The care provided was below the accepted standard
- That failure caused you harm
At Westside Injury Lawyers, we know how to gather medical records, consult with expert witnesses, and build a case that stands up in court.
Next Steps If You Suspect Medical Malpractice
If you think you may be a victim of medical malpractice:
✅ Document everything – symptoms, visits, and communications
✅ Get a second opinion – another doctor may confirm the mistake
✅ Contact a lawyer ASAP – time is limited under California’s statute of limitations
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the deadline for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in California?
Generally, you have 1 year from the time you discover the injury, or 3 years from the date of the negligent act—whichever comes first.
Can I sue for emotional distress?
Yes, if you can prove it was caused by the provider’s negligence.
How much is a medical malpractice case worth?
It depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and future medical needs. Some cases result in settlements or verdicts worth hundreds of thousands—or even millions.
Conclusion & Free Consultation
Medical mistakes can be life-changing. If you think a doctor’s negligence caused your injury, don’t wait. Our experienced team at Westside Injury Lawyers serves clients across Pasadena and Southern California, and we’re ready to help.
📞 Call 877-834-1311 or request your free consultation online.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a professional regarding your situation.