Last Updated on May 12, 2025 by tanya

Paramedic Negligence Claims

 

From Medication Errors to Transport Delays

 

Paramedic negligence claims are made when a patient is injured or harmed due to a paramedic failing to provide an expected standard of care. Paramedics play a critical role in emergency healthcare and are trusted to make quick, life-saving decisions under pressure.

While they are often regarded as angels at an emergency scene, things can go wrong leading to serious consequences.  This may be because of a mistake or failure to follow proper procedure. Medical negligence is not a simple error. Rather, it involves a significant lapse in judgement or procedure which leads to measurable harm.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has been injured, harmed or a condition has worsened due to paramedic negligence, First Personal Injury may be able to help.

Our team at First Personal Injury works with lawyers who are highly experienced in medical negligence claims and who can assess your case to advise it is valid.

 

Potential Injuries Which May Occur If A Paramedic is Negligent

 

Paramedic negligence can lead to a wide range of injuries. These may typically occur of a paramedic fails to follow accepted clinical procedures, misjudges a situation or delays necessary treatment.

 

Worsening of a Medical Condition

Failure to diagnose or treat a condition promptly, e.g.  a heart attack, stroke, or sepsis. This may result in serious deterioration or permanent damage.

 

Brain Damage

Delayed oxygen administration or improper airway management can lead to hypoxia (lack of oxygen). This could result in a brain injury that affects memory, mobility, or cognitive function.

 

Spinal Cord Injuries

Incorrect handling of patients with suspected neck or back injuries can lead to spinal damage.

 

Internal Bleeding or Organ Damage

Failure to detect or act on signs of internal trauma can result in uncontrolled bleeding.

 

Cardiac Arrest

Misuse of a defibrillator, failure to administer CPR correctly, or administering the wrong medication can result in cardiac arrest or complications.

 

Birth Injuries (Maternal or Neonatal)

Paramedic negligence during emergency childbirth may possibly injure the mother or baby. Examples include improper use of equipment or failure to respond to distress.

 

Fractures and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Rough handling, poor lifting techniques, or improper immobilisation (e.g., of a broken limb) may possibly worsen existing injuries or create new ones.

 

Burns or Injection Site Injuries

Incorrect use of certain medications or equipment may cause burns, infection or even nerve damage. This may include use of  IV cannulas, adrenaline pens, or heating devices.

 

Medication-Related Injuries

Errors in administering the wrong drug, incorrect dosage, or allergic reactions due to a failure to check medical history can lead to severe consequences.

 

What Is Paramedic Negligence?

Paramedic negligence happens when a paramedic fails to provide the standard level of care expected of them, resulting in injury, harm, or worsening of a patient’s condition.

 

The key legal components to establish negligence include:

 

Duty of care: The paramedic owed you a legal duty of care.

Breach of duty: The paramedic failed to meet the standard of care.

Causation: This breach directly caused harm or injury.

Damage: The harm resulted in loss—physical, emotional, or financial.

 

Clinical negligence claims are subject to a three-year time limit from the date of the incident or the date you became aware of the harm (known as the “date of knowledge”). Exceptions include:

• Children: The three-year limit starts from the child’s 18th birthday.
• Mental incapacity: If the injured person lacks mental capacity, there is no time limit unless they regain it.

It’s best to consult a solicitor as soon as possible to avoid missing crucial deadlines.

 

How to Prove Paramedic Negligence

 

Successfully proving negligence requires gathering detailed evidence, such as:

 

• Medical records: Ambulance service logs and hospital documents.
• Witness statements: From family, bystanders, or other medical personnel.
• Expert testimony: From independent paramedic or medical experts.
• Photos or videos: Especially if they show injuries, scene conditions, or improper care.
• Proof of damages: Medical bills, loss of earnings, ongoing care requirements, etc.

 

An experienced lawyer in clinical negligence can help gather and present this evidence effectively.

 

What Compensation Can You Claim?

 

Compensation in a paramedic negligence case is typically divided into two parts:

 

1. General damages: For pain, suffering, and loss of amenity.
2. Special damages: For financial losses such as:
   • Loss of income
   • Medical expenses
   • Travel costs
   • Costs of ongoing care or adaptations to your home

 

The amount awarded depends on the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact on your life.

 

Tips for Starting Your Claim

 

If you believe you’ve been the victim of paramedic negligence, follow these steps:

 

1. Record everything: Keep notes, records, and communications.
2. Request your medical records: Including ambulance service reports.
3. Seek legal advice early: Don’t delay contacting a solicitor.
4. Avoid direct contact with insurers: Let your solicitor handle all negotiations.

 

Early action gives your legal team the best chance of building a strong case.

 

At First Personal Industry, we work with expert lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online and we can call you back at a time suitable for you.