Massachusetts Food Poisoning Lawsuits: 1-800-934-2921

Each year thousands of people in Massachusetts become seriously ill as a result of eating contaminated food. Many of the incidents clear up in a day or two, but many result in serious medical conditions requiring hospitalization and in some instances resulting in long term health effects or death. Food poisoning can occur in 5 star restaurants just as easily as at the fast food drive thru window. Menus at upscale restaurants now feature a prominent disclaimer that eating raw or undercooked food can lead to serious illnesses.

Food poisoning is almost by definition the result of negligence- that is, it results from the fault of the food preparer. In the majority of cases the food is contaminated through poor food service conditions including the hygiene of the preparer. Every one has heard horror stories from the kitchen- many of them are true.

Bacterial infections are the leading cause of food borne illnesses, the food can be infected with microorganisms such as E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, Shigella, or Campylobacter. Occaisonally food can become infected with viruses such as Hepatitis A.

All types of food are subject to risk, seafood generally has a higher risk, but chicken, beef, even salad can be contaminated and cause serious food poisoning.

Food poisoning usually occurs within 24 hours after consumption although the symptoms can appear later in some cases. The symptoms usually occur suddenly and include: severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and repeated vomiting. Pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing medical conditions, are at high risk for complications due to food poisoning.

Filing a Claim

While many people are sickened by food poisoning, very few file a legal claim. In most cases they injured person is so sick that they are more concerned with recovering than filing a lawsuit. However, food poisoning is serious business and your physician will file a report with the health authorities. You doctor will be helpful in determining the cause and source of your illness, although most people know what it is that caused the problem. It is important to save the bill, receipt and any documents to prove that you ate at a particular place. Witnesses are also helpful. This is because in many cases the restaurant or food source will simply deny liability for the incident. However, your attorney will usually be able prove your case. You should file a legal claim to prevent poisoning from happening again and you may recover not only your medical bills, but a sizable tax free cash settlement for pain and suffering as well.

Types of Food borne Illnesses

Salmonella Poisoning: This is one of the most common causes food poisoning, about 20% of the cases require hospitalization and about 2% result in death.

E. Coli: Can be very dangerous especially to children. This bacteria is found in food or water that has been contaminated with small amounts of cow waste.

Campylobacter: is considered the most common food borne illness in the world, which is caused by eating undercooked poultry. About 1% of cases are fatal.

Hepatitis A: is a serious viral infection that can be spread by a food preparer with poor hygiene habits. It is a potentially serious illness that can result in liver failure.

Shigella: is caused by a bacteria. A fairly common illness resulting in severe diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.

Norovirus: Sometimes called " Norwalk virus" can lead to flu like symptoms such as vomiting.

Listeria is considered a very serious food borne illness, and is comparatively rare, it is estimated to cause 500 deaths in the US each year. Often caused by poorly handled chicken products.

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Our attorneys handle Food Poisoning claims anywhere in the state of Massachusetts.

We will schedule a meeting with you same day or next day if you wish. We offer a free in-home consultation at your convenience, an attorney is usually available to meet with you within a few hours of your phone call or email.

Ask our Lawyers in Massachusetts About Your Food Illness Claim: 1-800-934-2921. We answer your questions below FREE. Professional, Experienced Counsel.

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