Surgical errors can result in severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial hardship for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been affected by a surgical mistake in Effingham, IL, you may be entitled to compensation. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we fight for victims of medical negligence, ensuring they receive justice and the financial recovery they 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 Experience in Medical Malpractice Cases: Our team has successfully litigated numerous surgical malpractice lawsuits, securing compensation for our clients.
- Familiarity with Local Courts & Hospitals: We handle cases in Effingham County Courthouse and work with victims treated at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Common Types of Surgical Malpractice in Effingham
- Wrong-Site Surgery: When a surgeon operates on the wrong body part, it can result in devastating complications and require corrective procedures.
- Anesthesia Errors: Administering too much or too little anesthesia can cause severe complications, brain damage, or even death.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving surgical tools inside a patient increases the risk of infections and further medical complications.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A surgeon’s mistake can lead to permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or loss of organ function.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to provide adequate post-operative care can result in infections, blood clots, or other serious health conditions.
How Surgical Errors Happen
- Lack of Preoperative Planning: Insufficient preparation before surgery increases the risk of avoidable errors.
- Communication Failures: Poor communication between medical staff can lead to dangerous surgical mistakes.
- Fatigue & Overwork: Overworked healthcare professionals are more likely to make critical errors.
- Defective or Misused Medical Equipment: Malfunctioning tools or improper handling of surgical instruments can cause significant harm.
- Failure to Monitor Patients: Neglecting post-operative care can lead to undetected complications that put a patient’s life at risk.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Effingham
Under Illinois law, victims have two years from the date of injury or discovery of negligence to file a malpractice claim. Some exceptions apply, including cases involving minors or concealed malpractice. Seeking legal guidance promptly is essential for preserving your rights.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims
Victims of surgical malpractice in Effingham may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for additional surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Compensation for income lost due to extended recovery or permanent disability.
- Pain & Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence.
- Wrongful Death Compensation: Families who have lost a loved one due to surgical malpractice may seek financial relief for funeral expenses and loss of support.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Error in Effingham
- Seek Medical Care: Obtain a second opinion and immediate treatment for any complications caused by the surgical error.
- Obtain Medical Records: Request records from HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital or any other treating facility.
- File a Complaint: Report the malpractice to the Illinois Department of Public Health for investigation.
- Consult an Experienced Malpractice Attorney: Contact Chicago Injury Lawyer to explore your legal options.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep medical documents, receipts, and all correspondence related to your injury.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Effingham
Surgical malpractice cases in Effingham are typically filed in Effingham County Courthouse. Our legal team will handle the entire process, from gathering evidence and expert testimony to negotiating settlements or representing you in trial.
Resources for Victims in Effingham
- Effingham County Health Department – 901 W Virginia Ave, Effingham, IL 62401, contact: (217) 342-9237.
- Effingham County Bar Association – Legal assistance for malpractice claims.
- Effingham Chronic Pain Support Group – Support for victims dealing with long-term surgical malpractice injuries.
- HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital – 503 N Maple St, Effingham, IL 62401, contact: (217) 342-2121, HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital.
- Effingham Police Department – 110 S 3rd St, Effingham, IL 62401, contact: (217) 347-0774, Effingham Police Department.
- Effingham County Sheriff’s Office – 101 N 4th St, Effingham, IL 62401, contact: (217) 342-8463, Effingham County Sheriff’s Office.
- Effingham County Courthouse – 120 W Jefferson Ave, Effingham, IL 62401, contact: (217) 342-4065, Effingham County Courthouse.
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 a surgical error?
Seek immediate medical attention and document all symptoms. Contact a surgical malpractice attorney to review your case.
Can I sue a hospital for a surgeon’s mistake?
Yes, hospitals can be held liable if they employed the negligent surgeon or failed to enforce proper medical protocols.
How long do I have to file a surgical malpractice claim in Illinois?
Illinois law allows two years from the date of injury or discovery, with some exceptions. Consulting an attorney as soon as possible is crucial.
What damages can I recover in a surgical malpractice lawsuit?
You may recover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and additional corrective treatments related to the malpractice.
Can I file a malpractice lawsuit if I didn’t immediately realize the error?
Yes, Illinois follows the discovery rule, allowing victims to file a claim within two years of discovering the surgical error.
