A medical error can change everything—leaving you or a loved one overwhelmed, unsure, and searching for answers. One of the first questions we hear from clients in Long Island is, how much is the average medical malpractice settlement in New York? While every case is unique, understanding what goes into these payouts can help you make informed decisions. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we’ve stood by many Long Island families as they’ve faced some of the toughest moments in their lives.
Understanding Medical Malpractice Settlements
A medical malpractice settlement is a financial award given to the plaintiff, typically agreed upon out of court through negotiation. It’s not just about compensation—it’s about helping families reclaim stability and justice after being failed by those they trusted most. In some cases, a jury may award the amount if malpractice is proven in court. What’s different about medical malpractice—compared to other personal injury claims—is that these settlements are recorded in a public database, making it possible to see whether a doctor has faced similar claims before.
Several factors shape the outcome:
- The extent and impact of the injury
- Whether the harm caused permanent or long-term disability
- Cost of medical care, rehabilitation, and support services
- Lost wages or inability to return to work
How Much Is the Average Medical Malpractice Settlement in Long Island, New York?
Every case is unique, especially in New York. There’s no one-size-fits-all number for compensation. Each malpractice claim tells a different story. Some lead to moderate outcomes, others to life-changing compensation. The key difference? Evidence, impact, and legal strategy.
What we do know is this:
A report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Legal Reform, “Nuclear Verdicts—Trends, Causes and Solutions” (September 2022), examined jury awards of $10 million or more—known as “nuclear verdicts”—across the U.S. from 2010 to 2019. New York ranked third highest, with 151 verdicts, 22.5% linked to medical liability cases, including several notable outcomes.
So, how much is the average medical malpractice settlement in Long Island? It depends. Cases can range from $250,000 to several million, with averages reflecting the extent of harm, future care needs, and whether the case goes to trial.
How Long Does a Medical Malpractice Case Take to Settle?
It usually takes 18 months to 3 years to resolve a malpractice claim in New York. That might sound long, but getting to the truth—and fair compensation—takes time. Factors like gathering medical records, consulting medical experts, resistance from the other side, and whether the case settles or goes to trial can all affect the timeline.
If both sides are motivated and the facts are clear, a settlement might be reached in less than a year. But if things get complicated, it’s worth hanging in—rushing can cost you in the long run.
Here’s the typical flow:
- Medical records and fact-gathering
- Consultations with outside medical reviewers
- Damage assessments (hospital bills, time off work, long-term care)
- Negotiation rounds
- Mediation or trial prep, if needed
Real-Life Medical Malpractice Settlement Examples
Numbers tell part of the story—but real cases show what’s possible:
- We secured a six-figure settlement for the family of a Brooklyn woman who tragically died from a brain bleed. She went to the ER with severe headaches after a fall, but doctors missed clear signs of internal bleeding on her CT scan. Days later, she passed away. After reviewing the scan with top radiologists, we were shocked by the oversight. The settlement gave the family closure and a sense of justice.
- Our firm recovered $2,250,000 for a young single mother with a traumatic brain injury after a school bus ran a stop sign and hit her car in the Bronx. She blacked out but was sent home undiagnosed. Days later, she experienced severe symptoms like vomiting and memory loss. We partnered with the New York State Brain Injury Association and brought in experts to confirm her injuries. When the insurer refused to pay, we secured a court ruling holding the defendant responsible—leading to a settlement that supported her recovery.
Every situation is different. These outcomes depend on medical evidence, long-term impact, and how well your story is told.
Get a Free Consultation with a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Long Island, New York
Curious about how much is the average medical malpractice settlement? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a next step that matters. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we’re here to listen, break things down clearly, and fight for the outcome you deserve. Call us at 516-358-6900 today and get a free consultation. Let’s take this one step at a time—together.
Call a medical malpractice lawyer near you:
