In cases where a doctor is alledgedly negligent in a medical malpractice lawsuit, that doctor may not be the only potential defendant in the case. For instance, if a hospital or other medical institution has retained the doctor, then that institution may be "vicariously" liable for the doctor's negligence.

The institution's liability is based on a legal theory known as "respondeat superior," which basically means that the employer is partially responsible for the negligence of its employees. Usually this condition exists when the hospital fails to perform necessary direction and supervision roles in the doctor's performance.

Other cases of vicarious liability include private medical practices when the doctor is part of a limited partnership or limited liability company. Vicarious liability may also be applied in cases where doctors are in charge of attending or resident physicians.

If you or anyone you know has been a victim of medical malpractice and believes a vicarious liability case exists, contact the Washington medical malpractice lawyers of Fuller & Fuller at 800-570-4878.