Compensation for Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is an unfortunate and often underestimated consequence of dining out. When your illness is connected to another’s negligence, it is essential to understand your rights. In the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, residents have the right to seek compensation for damages incurred due to food poisoning.
To learn more about when it is possible to file a claim, share your story with a Bucks County personal injury attorney. A seasoned legal professional who has secured favorable outcomes for individuals in similar situations can walk you through the steps of obtaining financial relief.
When Can You File a Claim?
Cases involving harm connected to food consumption can be complex, but if you can establish that your illness was a result of consuming food or beverages that were contaminated, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation.
- Restaurant negligence. If a restaurant fails to adhere to appropriate food safety guidelines and regulations, leading to food contamination and subsequent illness, they can be held accountable. An example of this could be a restaurant customer who contracts Salmonella after consuming undercooked poultry because the establishment did not follow proper cooking protocols.
- Contaminated products. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can also be held responsible if they distribute contaminated food products. For instance, damage recovery is likely if a consumer falls ill after consuming a pre-packaged salad contaminated with E. coli and inadequate quality control by the manufacturer is discovered.
Whether your claim involves a restaurant, resort, or food distributor, there needs to be a direct link between the contaminated food and the resulting illness. This could involve medical documentation, evidence of the source of the food, and expert testimony.
What Damages Will Be Covered?
When you experience food poisoning, seeking immediate medical attention is necessary for both your health and potential legal action. While a person may worry about the expenses related to hospital stays, medical procedures, and medications required to treat foodborne illnesses, the reality is your health needs to be the top priority.
Once you are feeling better, you and your legal team can push for a robust compensation package that covers your medical expenses as well as lost wages. Non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, or a diminished quality of life, may also be considered in a claim.
As soon as you connect with a skilled Bucks County personal injury attorney, they will begin the process of conducting a thorough investigation to identify the source of the contaminated food and establish liability. Next, they will engage with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will take your case to court and advocate for your rights.
Is your health issue a direct result of contaminated food? Holding responsible parties accountable means you can seek compensation for your own recovery while also fighting to ensure food safety standards are upheld. Talk to the lawyers at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Call 215-968-6602 to schedule a confidential consultation.
