$77 Million Awarded in Birth Injury Lawsuit - HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE?

I am sure you have seen newspaper headlines that have read astronomical verdicts for medical malpractice cases in recent years.  $40 Million, 77 Million...even verdicts that exceed $100 Million.  This has led many of you to think "How is that possible?", "I'll get injured if it means I can get that kind of money", or "that's unfair.".     It's important to point out a few important facts and variables regarding these cases. 

First, anyone who is severely injured enough to warrant a high verdict would trade all the money to have their health back.   Ask any paraplegic what he would give to be able to walk again. 

Second, here is a sample breakdown of a recent birth injury verdict:
The jury in this case returned a huge verdict of $77 Million to be apportioned as follows:

• $3 million for past pain and suffering
• $6.1 million for future medical costs
• $40 million for future cost of custodial and residential care
• $3.1 million for future cost of rehabilitation
• $20 million for future pain and suffering
• $4.9 million for future lost earnings

Nursing Home Abuse Statistics

Nursing Home Abuse Statistics

• 1 out of 3 nursing homes across the country have been cited for nursing home abuse and other related infractions.

• 11% of nursing homes have been cited for unnecessary dispensing of prescription drugs

• 1/4 of the aides prosecuted for abusing patients have previous criminal records and 5% of nursing home aides across the nation have criminal records.

• 1 to 2 million Americans over 65 have been abused, neglected or mistreated by their primary caregiver.

• In 1999, 5,000 death certificates of nursing home patients listed dehydration, malnutrition, starvation, or bedsores as the cause of death.

• CNN reports that just over 90% of nursing home facilities are understaffed. These staff shortages lead to increased instances of health problems, neglect, and abuse.

• Only 16% of elder abuse cases are ever reported, according to the National Elder Abuse Incident Study.