Medical negligence, also known as clinical negligence, occurs when a healthcare professional provides treatment that falls below acceptable standards and a patient suffers avoidable harm as a result. This can include errors in diagnosis, mistakes during surgery, incorrect prescriptions, or a failure to take appropriate action. For people living in Sale, where many rely on local GP practices, Sale Moor Health Centre, or nearby hospitals such as Wythenshawe Hospital and Trafford General Hospital, the impact of medical negligence can be life-changing.
What is a medical negligence claim?
A medical negligence claim is a legal process where you seek compensation for injury, illness, or complications caused by substandard medical care. To succeed, three key points must be established:
- A duty of care was owed by the healthcare provider
- That duty was breached due to negligent treatment
- The breach caused direct harm or made an existing condition worse
Compensation can cover pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost income, and the wider impact on your quality of life.
Can I make a medical negligence claim in Sale?
Yes. If negligent care in Sale has harmed you or a loved one, you may be eligible to claim compensation. Some common examples include:
- Missed or delayed diagnosis of conditions such as cancer or stroke at a GP surgery or hospital
- Surgical errors during routine or complex operations
- Incorrect prescriptions from a pharmacy or medical professional
- Birth injuries that affect either the mother or the child can occur due to inadequate maternity care.
- Negligent dental treatment in local practices
Marley Solicitors has supported clients across Manchester, including those in Sale, with medical negligence claims. We understand how upsetting these situations are and work to secure the maximum compensation possible.
What should I do if I suspect medical negligence?
Act quickly and gather evidence if you suspect medical negligence has affected you. You should:
- Please request your medical records from the GP, hospital, or clinic involved.
- Keep a diary of your symptoms and how they affect daily life.
- Save receipts for medication, travel, or private treatment.
- Seek a second medical opinion if necessary.
- Contact a solicitor experienced in medical negligence claims.
Engaging with a solicitor at an early stage safeguards your rights and guarantees robust evidence for your claim.
Common types of medical negligence claims
Residents of Sale often bring claims for issues such as:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis – illnesses that progress due to late or missed identification
- Surgical mistakes – operating on the wrong area, leaving equipment inside the body, or failing to provide proper aftercare
- Medication errors – incorrect dosage, wrong medication, or conflicting prescriptions
- Maternity and birth injuries – harm caused to mother or baby during labour or delivery
- Neglect in care homes – failure to provide adequate care, supervision, or treatment
Each of these situations can have serious consequences, and compensation helps cover the costs of recovery.
How long do I have to make a claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the negligent treatment, or from when you first became aware of the harm, to begin a claim. For children, the time limit starts on their 18th birthday. This means they have until the age of 21 to bring their claim if no action has been taken before then.
We recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible, as early collection often yields stronger evidence.
How much compensation could I receive?
Compensation depends on the severity of the negligence and the impact on your life. Claims typically cover two areas:
- General damages – pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Special damages – financial costs such as lost income, future treatment, rehabilitation, and home adaptations
For example, if a delayed cancer diagnosis in Sale leads to extended treatment and time away from work, the claim could include both the emotional toll and financial losses. Marley Solicitors meticulously values every aspect of your case.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Sale?
Medical negligence claims are complex and require specialist expertise. Marley Solicitors offers:
- A strong track record of successful claims across Manchester
- Local knowledge of healthcare services in Sale and surrounding areas
- Clear, practical advice in straightforward language
- Support on a no win no fee basis where appropriate
- A dedicated solicitor to guide you from start to finish
Our team understands the emotional and financial strain caused by negligent care. We aim to secure justice while reducing the stress involved in the legal process.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim compensation for negligent treatment at Wythenshawe or Trafford General Hospital?
Yes. If the treatment you received at either hospital, or at a local GP practice in Sale, fell below the expected standard and caused harm, you may be entitled to compensation. Marley Solicitors can advise you on your options.
Will I have to go to court for a medical negligence claim?
Most claims are resolved through negotiation and settlement, meaning you are unlikely to attend court. If your case does proceed to court, Marley Solicitors will represent you throughout.
Taking the next step
If you live in Sale and have been harmed by medical negligence, you don’t have to go through it alone. Marley Solicitors provides free initial consultations to discuss your experience, explain your options, and begin building a strong claim.
We have helped many clients across the Manchester area secure the compensation they deserve after negligent treatment. Whether your case involves a GP, hospital, dentist, or care home in Sale, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Medical negligence can affect every aspect of your life, but with the right legal support you can take steps towards recovery and justice. If you or a loved one has suffered negligent care in Sale, contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will handle your case with professionalism and care thanks to our local expertise and commitment to clients.
