Surgical procedures should be safe and effective, but when errors occur, they can lead to devastating consequences. Patients place their trust in surgeons and medical professionals, expecting high standards of care. However, negligence can result in life-changing injuries or even death.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a surgical mistake in North Lawndale, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to help you seek justice and compensation.
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?
- Proven Success in Medical Malpractice Cases: Our legal team has a strong track record of securing compensation for victims of surgical malpractice in North Lawndale and throughout Illinois.
- Familiarity with Local Hospitals: We understand medical procedures at Mount Sinai Hospital – 1500 S Fairfield Ave, Chicago, IL 60608, and Saint Anthony Hospital – 2875 W 19th St, Chicago, IL 60623.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Aggressive Legal Representation: We take on negligent hospitals, surgeons, and insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation possible.
- Personalized Legal Approach: Every case is unique, and we develop customized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Common Surgical Errors in North Lawndale
Surgical errors can lead to severe complications. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: When a surgeon operates on the incorrect body part or performs a procedure on the wrong patient due to administrative failures.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving foreign objects inside a patient, causing infections and requiring additional surgeries.
- Anesthesia Errors: Incorrect anesthesia administration can result in oxygen deprivation, heart failure, or brain damage.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A small surgical mistake can lead to irreversible nerve damage, paralysis, or internal bleeding.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to properly monitor patients after surgery can result in severe infections, excessive bleeding, or other life-threatening complications.
Causes of Surgical Malpractice
Many surgical mistakes are preventable and caused by negligence. Common reasons include:
- Lack of Preoperative Planning: Surgeons must thoroughly review medical records and confirm all procedural details before an operation.
- Poor Communication Among Medical Teams: Miscommunication between doctors, nurses, and anesthesiologists increases the risk of errors.
- Fatigue and Overwork: Long shifts and exhaustion can impair a surgeon’s ability to perform accurately.
- Defective or Unsterilized Equipment: Malfunctioning surgical instruments or unsterilized tools can lead to severe infections and complications.
- Failure to Follow Standard Protocols: Ignoring established surgical guidelines increases the likelihood of malpractice.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in North Lawndale
Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to seek legal action. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims is two years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Exceptions apply for minors or cases where the injury was not immediately apparent.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims
Victims of surgical malpractice in North Lawndale may be entitled to compensation, including:
- Medical Costs: Coverage for hospital stays, additional surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Compensation for lost income due to extended recovery periods or permanent disability.
- Pain & Suffering: Financial recovery for emotional distress, chronic pain, and diminished quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence or reckless medical conduct.
- Wrongful Death Compensation: Families of deceased victims may seek damages for funeral expenses and loss of financial support.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in North Lawndale
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Obtain a second opinion or corrective treatment to prevent further harm.
- Obtain Your Medical Records: Request copies of surgical reports, imaging scans, and physician notes for legal documentation.
- Report the Malpractice: File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to document the incident.
- Consult a Malpractice Lawyer: A skilled attorney can assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in North Lawndale
Surgical malpractice lawsuits in North Lawndale are filed in Cook County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert medical testimony to prove that a healthcare provider deviated from the accepted standard of care and caused patient harm.
Local Resources for Victims in North Lawndale
- Illinois State Bar Association – Legal resources and malpractice law updates.
- Cook County Health Department – Assistance in filing complaints and accessing patient advocacy services.
- North Lawndale Medical Support Network – Community-based support groups for surgical malpractice victims.
- North Lawndale Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery services for individuals affected by medical negligence.
- Chicago Police Department – 10th District – 3315 W Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60623 – Assistance in cases involving medical negligence with criminal implications.
- Cook County Sheriff’s Office – 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 – Law enforcement support for malpractice-related investigations.
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
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I believe I am a victim of surgical malpractice?
Seek immediate medical care to address any complications. Obtain your medical records and consult an experienced malpractice lawyer to review your case.
Can I sue the surgeon and the hospital for negligence?
Yes. If both the surgeon and hospital contributed to your injury, you may be able to file claims against both parties for malpractice.
What if my injury was not discovered immediately after surgery?
Illinois law allows for delayed discovery exceptions, meaning the statute of limitations may start when you become aware of the injury rather than the date of surgery.
How do I prove surgical malpractice?
You need to present medical records, expert medical testimony, and evidence that the healthcare provider’s negligence directly caused your injury.
How much does it cost to hire a surgical malpractice lawyer?
Most malpractice attorneys, including Chicago Injury Lawyer, work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless your case is won.
