Surgical procedures should be performed with care and precision, but when mistakes occur, the results can be devastating. Patients trust surgeons and medical professionals to provide safe treatment, yet negligence can lead to serious injuries, long-term complications, or even wrongful death.
If you or a loved one suffered from a surgical mistake in Belmont Cragin, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
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 Track Record in Medical Malpractice Cases: Our firm has successfully represented surgical malpractice victims across Belmont Cragin and Illinois.
- Familiarity with Local Hospitals: We understand medical procedures at Community First Medical Center – 5645 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60634, and Loretto Hospital – 645 S Central Ave, Chicago, IL 60644.
- No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case.
- Aggressive Legal Representation: We fight against negligent hospitals, doctors, and insurance companies to secure the highest compensation possible.
- Personalized Legal Strategies: Every case is different, and we develop a unique legal approach tailored to your needs.
Common Surgical Errors in Belmont Cragin
Surgical errors can result in severe medical conditions that require further treatment. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: When a doctor operates on the wrong body part or an entirely different patient due to miscommunication.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving tools, sponges, or gauze inside a patient, leading to severe infections and complications.
- Anesthesia Errors: Administering too much or too little anesthesia can result in brain damage, heart failure, or awareness during surgery.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A minor miscalculation can cause permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or internal bleeding.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failure to monitor patients after surgery can lead to life-threatening infections, blood clots, or internal bleeding.
Causes of Surgical Malpractice
Most surgical errors are preventable and result from medical negligence. Some common causes include:
- Lack of Preoperative Planning: Surgeons must thoroughly review a patient’s medical history and confirm procedural details before performing surgery.
- Communication Failures: Miscommunication between surgical teams can result in errors that endanger patients.
- Fatigue and Overwork: Surgeons and medical staff working long hours are more likely to make mistakes.
- Defective or Unsterilized Equipment: Faulty or improperly sterilized surgical tools can cause infections and serious complications.
- Failure to Follow Standard Procedures: Ignoring established surgical protocols increases the risk of malpractice.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Belmont Cragin
Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to take legal action. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Illinois is two years from the date of injury or discovery. Special exceptions apply in cases involving minors or delayed recognition of harm.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims
Victims of surgical malpractice in Belmont Cragin may be entitled to financial compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, additional surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Financial recovery for lost income due to extended recovery periods or permanent disability.
- Pain & Suffering: Compensation for emotional trauma, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence or reckless medical misconduct.
- 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 Belmont Cragin
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Obtain a second opinion or corrective treatment to prevent further harm.
- Obtain Your Medical Records: Secure copies of surgical reports, imaging results, and physician notes for evidence.
- 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 evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Belmont Cragin
Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Belmont Cragin are processed through Cook County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert medical testimony to prove that a healthcare provider deviated from the accepted standard of care and directly caused patient harm.
Local Resources for Victims in Belmont Cragin
- Illinois State Bar Association – Legal resources and malpractice law updates.
- Cook County Health Department – Assistance in filing complaints and accessing patient advocacy services.
- Belmont Cragin Medical Support Network – Community-based support for individuals affected by surgical malpractice.
- Belmont Cragin Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery services for malpractice victims.
- Chicago Police Department – 25th District – 5555 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60639 – 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 suspect surgical malpractice?
Seek immediate medical care to prevent further complications. Gather your medical records and consult a malpractice lawyer to evaluate your legal options.
Can I sue both the surgeon and the hospital for negligence?
Yes. If both the surgeon and the hospital contributed to your injury, you may file claims against both for medical malpractice.
What if I didn’t realize my injury was caused by surgical malpractice until months later?
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?
To prove malpractice, you need medical records, expert testimony, and evidence demonstrating that your 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.
