What is the Statute of Limitations for Dental Malpractice, when Surgery was Received as a Minor?

Question:

I had wisdom teeth surgery in 2011 when I was 17. I had reported facial numbness and limited mobility to my doctor the week following the surgery. I am now 21 and still have facial numbness as well as some limited movement along an area close to my lip on the left side of my face. Is it still even reasonable to go through with anything, given the lapse of time? I did not go through with anything initially for two reasons: I heard and saw that the numbness could go away over time, I was young and did not know what to do.

Download Our Free Medical Malpractice Guide

Answer:

 In Florida you have two years from the time you knew or reasonably should have known that an act of malpractice occurred within, which to take action to prevent your legal rights to bring an action from being barred.  Unfortunately, not knowing the extent of your damages does not prevent that time period from running.  It is unlikely that a claim can still be brought, but there may be additional facts which would change these time periods and you should always speak with a lawyer in Tampa, FL.  In addition, if you have not sought any medical treatment for your condition in this time period, it will be very difficult to prove your damages or that they interfere with your everyday life.  Good luck and always make sure to put your health first.

This legal question was provided by Avvo and answered by Betsey Herd an experienced Tampa Medical Malpractice Attorney.  This does not consent an attorney client relationship.