Surgical procedures are meant to improve health, but mistakes during surgery can cause severe injuries and lasting complications. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a surgical error in Chatham, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to fight for your rights. Our legal team specializes in holding negligent medical professionals accountable and securing maximum compensation for victims.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Why Choose Chicago Injury Lawyer?
- Extensive Experience in Surgical Malpractice Cases: Our attorneys have successfully handled numerous surgical error claims, winning significant compensation for our clients.
- Familiarity with Local Medical Institutions: We have worked on cases involving facilities such as Springfield Memorial Hospital – 701 N 1st St, Springfield, IL 62781.
- No Fees Unless You Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Common Types of Surgical Errors in Chatham
- Wrong-Site Surgery: Performing a procedure on the incorrect body part can result in unnecessary damage and additional corrective surgeries.
- Anesthesia Mistakes: Errors in anesthesia administration can cause oxygen deprivation, brain damage, or fatal complications.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving surgical tools, sponges, or other materials inside a patient can lead to infections and further medical procedures.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A minor mistake during surgery can result in permanent disability, chronic pain, or loss of function.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to monitor a patient after surgery can result in undiagnosed complications, internal bleeding, or severe infections.
How Surgical Errors Occur
- Failure to Follow Medical Safety Protocols: Hospitals and surgical teams must adhere to strict guidelines. Deviating from these standards increases the risk of errors.
- Lack of Pre-Surgical Planning: Surgeons must carefully review a patient’s medical history and plan procedures properly to avoid complications.
- Miscommunication Among Medical Staff: A lack of clear communication between surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists can lead to preventable mistakes.
- Surgeon Fatigue or Inexperience: Overworked or underqualified surgeons are more prone to making critical errors in the operating room.
- Negligent Post-Surgical Care: Patients require thorough monitoring after surgery to detect and prevent serious complications from developing.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Chatham
- Illinois Medical Malpractice Laws: Victims have two years from the date of injury or discovery to file a malpractice claim.
- Statute of Limitations Exceptions: Minors and cases involving concealed malpractice may have extended deadlines.
- Proving Medical Negligence: A malpractice claim must demonstrate that a medical professional’s actions deviated from accepted medical practices and directly caused harm.
- Compensation for Victims: Patients may recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and, in cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Error in Chatham
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Visit Springfield Memorial Hospital – 701 N 1st St, Springfield, IL 62781, for evaluation and corrective treatment.
- Obtain Your Medical Records: Request all surgical documentation to support your malpractice claim.
- File a Complaint with Authorities: Report malpractice to the Illinois Department of Public Health to initiate an investigation.
- Consult a Surgical Malpractice Attorney: Contact Chicago Injury Lawyer to discuss your legal options.
- Document Your Medical Expenses and Recovery: Keep track of additional treatments, lost income, and ongoing pain and suffering.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Chatham
- Jurisdiction & Legal Process: Malpractice cases in Chatham, IL, are typically filed in the Sangamon County Courthouse – 200 S 9th St, Springfield, IL 62701.
- Expert Medical Testimony: Our firm collaborates with leading medical professionals to provide evidence supporting your malpractice claim.
- Settlement vs. Trial Representation: While many cases settle before trial, we are prepared to fight in court if necessary to secure maximum compensation.
Resources for Surgical Malpractice Victims in Chatham
- Illinois Department of Public Health – File complaints and access patient advocacy services.
- Legal Aid Chicago – Free legal assistance for those who qualify.
- Springfield Memorial Hospital – 701 N 1st St, Springfield, IL 62781 – Seek follow-up medical care for malpractice-related injuries.
- Chatham Police Department – 117 E Mulberry St, Chatham, IL 62629 – Assistance with legal reports related to malpractice.
- Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office – 1 Sheriff’s Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701 – Law enforcement assistance for victims.
Get Directions to Our Law Office
Visit us in Chicago for a free consultation
- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7
FAQs
What should I do if I suspect I was harmed by a surgical error?
Seek medical treatment immediately and request copies of your medical records. Then, consult a malpractice attorney to review your case and discuss legal options.
How long do I have to file a malpractice claim in Illinois?
Illinois law generally allows two years from the date of injury or discovery to file a malpractice claim. Certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors.
Can I sue both the surgeon and the hospital?
Yes. If the surgeon was employed by the hospital, both may be liable. If the surgeon was an independent contractor, a separate claim may be required.
What damages can I recover in a malpractice case?
Victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence.
How much does it cost to hire a malpractice lawyer?
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are only collected if we win your case.
