Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a condition that causes severe skin rashes, blisters, and peeling. It develops as an allergic reaction to certain medications and can result in long-term health issues. If you’ve received Stevens-Johnson syndrome treatment, you may wonder whether you can hold the drug manufacturer accountable.
A Stevens-Johnson lawyer can help by explaining whether you have a good chance of recovering your losses through a pharmaceutical lawsuit. Learn more about your legal options and how to prove liability.
Who Can Be Held Liable for SJS Cases?
Product liability laws require that manufacturers create reasonably safe products for consumers. If a product has a design or manufacturing defect or if there aren’t enough warnings to consumers about potential dangers, then the manufacturer can be held liable.
Because SJS claims involve pharmaceutical companies, it’s important to find a law firm that has handled cases like yours. Large pharma companies will do everything possible to avoid having to pay out compensation, and they’ll have ruthless legal teams ready to discredit your claim.
Proving Negligence in a Drug Liability Claim
Since most Stevens-Johnson syndrome claims involve reactions to prescription medications, these cases follow the doctrine of strict liability. You don’t have to demonstrate that the defects that led you to suffer injuries were the result of negligence, but you do have to show that the drug wasn’t safe for use in its current state.
You’ll have to prove that you used the drug correctly and followed your doctor’s instructions. Vitally, you’ll also have to establish a connection between the drug and the development of SJS. That is the most difficult part of the claim, and your SJS lawyer may call on the testimony of medical professionals to prove the medication and your condition are connected.
Types of Compensation Available for SJS Victims
With the help of a Stevens-Johnson attorney, you may be able to receive economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover the costs of your Stevens-Johnson syndrome treatment, including any future medical care that you will need.
They also include lost income. It’s likely that a condition as severe as SJS prevented you from working, so you can claim all of the wages you weren’t able to earn. If you can’t return to work because of the long-term health effects of SJS, you can include this loss of earning potential in your claim.
Some losses don’t come with a price tag. If you can’t live your life as you once did, you can ask for your loss of enjoyment of life to be considered in your settlement or award.
Getting Experienced Legal Help to Pursue Compensation
To pursue compensation after Stevens-Johnson syndrome treatment, you need a lawyer by your side. These cases are too challenging to attempt on your own, especially because you’ll be dealing with pharmaceutical companies.
An SJS attorney will investigate your claim and speak with medical experts to strengthen the connection between the drug and your losses. Your lawyer will then negotiate aggressively with insurance companies for a fair settlement. If a settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer can also represent you in court.
FAQ
What Are the Long-Term Health Effects of SJS?
Some people experience changes in their skin texture and color, while others struggle with excessive sweating or extremely dry skin. Because SJS affects the mucous membranes in your eyes and mouth, you could also experience changes in your ability to see and taste.
Do I Need a Lawyer for an SJS Claim?
You’re not required to have an attorney representing you, but going against pharmaceutical companies alone is never a good idea.
Do I Have to Prove Negligence in an SJS Case?
You don’t have to show that negligence led to the defect that made the drug unsafe. All you have to demonstrate is that the medication led you to suffer losses because it didn’t work as intended.
Choose an Experienced Team of SJS Lawyers
If you’ve undergone treatment for Stevens-Johnson syndrome because of a dangerous drug, consider filing a claim for compensation.
At Dunn Sheehan, our SJS attorneys focus on protecting your rights through pharmaceutical litigation. Contact us to learn how we can help.