Medical imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing serious conditions such as cancer, internal injuries, strokes, and fractures. Patients rely on radiologists, technicians, and physicians to correctly perform and interpret imaging studies. When imaging errors occur—such as missed findings, misread scans, or delayed reporting—the consequences can be severe or fatal. When these errors are caused by negligence, Georgia law may allow injured patients or their families to pursue compensation.
If you or a loved one was harmed by a radiology or imaging error in Georgia, The C. Paul Law Firm P.C. can help determine whether medical negligence occurred and what legal options may be available.
What Is a Radiology or Imaging Error Under Georgia Law?
A radiology or imaging error occurs when a healthcare provider fails to properly perform, interpret, communicate, or follow up on diagnostic imaging studies, and that failure causes harm to the patient. Imaging errors are a recognized form of medical malpractice under Georgia law.
These cases frequently overlap with misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis claims, particularly in cancer and neurological cases.
Common Types of Radiology & Imaging Errors
Radiology malpractice claims in Georgia often involve:
- Misreading X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds
- Failure to identify tumors, fractures, or internal bleeding
- Failure to detect cancer on imaging studies
- Delayed interpretation or reporting of imaging results
- Failure to compare current scans with prior imaging
- Poor image quality due to technician error
- Failure to communicate abnormal findings to treating physicians
- Failure to recommend follow-up imaging or testing
Many imaging errors are preventable with proper training, review, and communication.
Imaging Errors by Type
Common Radiology Mistakes
|
Imaging Type |
Common Errors |
|
X-Ray |
Missed fractures or lung findings |
|
CT Scan |
Failure to detect bleeding or tumors |
|
MRI |
Missed soft-tissue or neurological abnormalities |
|
Ultrasound |
Missed masses or fetal abnormalities |
|
Mammogram |
Failure to detect early breast cancer |
|
PET Scan |
Incorrect cancer staging |
Errors in interpretation or follow-up often delay life-saving treatment.
Injuries Commonly Caused by Imaging Errors
Radiology and imaging negligence may result in:
- Delayed cancer diagnosis and progression
- Missed internal injuries after trauma
- Stroke or brain injury due to delayed treatment
- Worsening of treatable medical conditions
- More aggressive or invasive treatment
- Permanent disability
- Reduced life expectancy
- Wrongful death
Georgia courts recognize the serious harm caused by delayed or missed diagnoses.
Where Radiology & Imaging Errors Commonly Occur
Radiology error claims may arise from imaging performed at:
- Hospitals
- Emergency rooms
- Diagnostic imaging centers
- Outpatient radiology facilities
- Cancer screening centers
- Obstetric and prenatal imaging clinics
Liability may extend to radiologists, technicians, hospitals, imaging centers, or healthcare systems.
What Must Be Proven in a Georgia Radiology Error Case
To pursue a radiology or imaging malpractice claim in Georgia, an injured patient generally must establish:
- A provider-patient relationship existed
- The radiologist, technician, or facility breached the standard of care
- The breach involved imaging performance, interpretation, or communication
- The breach caused delayed or improper diagnosis or treatment
- The patient suffered damages
Expert radiology or medical testimony is typically required.
Georgia’s Expert Affidavit Requirement
Georgia law requires most medical malpractice lawsuits to be filed with an expert affidavit identifying at least one negligent act or omission and explaining how it violated the applicable standard of care.
Failure to comply can result in dismissal, making early legal review critical.
Damages Available in Radiology & Imaging Error Claims
Depending on the severity of harm, recoverable damages may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Additional diagnostic testing and treatment
- More aggressive medical or surgical intervention
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death damages (when applicable)
Imaging error cases often involve substantial, life-altering damages.
Statute of Limitations for Radiology Error Claims in Georgia
Most radiology and imaging malpractice claims in Georgia must be filed within two years from the date of injury or death. Georgia’s statute of repose may also limit claims regardless of discovery.
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar recovery.
What to Do If You Suspect an Imaging Error
To protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek immediate follow-up medical evaluation
- Obtain copies of imaging studies and radiology reports
- Preserve records showing delays or missed findings
- Document symptoms and progression of your condition
- Avoid discussions with insurers or providers without legal guidance
- Seek a professional legal evaluation promptly
Early action helps preserve evidence and expert testimony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are radiologists always responsible for imaging errors?
Not always. Liability may also involve technicians, hospitals, or referring physicians.
Can delayed diagnosis still qualify as malpractice?
Yes, if the delay caused harm or worsened the condition.
Do I need an expert to prove an imaging error?
Yes. Expert testimony is typically required under Georgia law.
Why Choose The C. Paul Law Firm P.C.
- Experience evaluating complex Georgia medical malpractice claims
- Knowledge of radiology standards and diagnostic liability
- Strategic analysis of causation and damages
- Clear, professional communication
- Commitment to ethical, client-focused representation
We approach radiology and imaging error cases with precision, diligence, and accountability.
Speak With a Radiology & Imaging Error Lawyer in Georgia
If you or a loved one was harmed by a radiology or imaging error in Georgia, The C. Paul Law Firm P.C. is ready to help you understand your legal options.
The C. Paul Law Firm P.C.
1870 The Exchange, Suite 200, #1387
Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: (212) 551-PAUL
Website: www.cpaullawfirm.com
Reach out today to speak with a member of our team and take the next step toward accountability and recovery.