Surgical procedures require precision, yet errors can lead to devastating consequences. Patients trust medical professionals to perform operations safely, but negligence can cause long-term injuries, complications, or even fatalities.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a surgical mistake in Forest Glen, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to fight for your rights. We help victims recover compensation for medical negligence.
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 Surgical Malpractice Cases: Our legal team has handled numerous malpractice cases, securing compensation for victims in Forest Glen.
- Familiarity with Local Hospitals: We understand surgical procedures at Swedish Hospital – 5145 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, and Ascension Saint Francis – 355 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60202.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
- Aggressive Legal Representation: We take on negligent surgeons, hospitals, and insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
- Personalized Legal Approach: Each case is unique, and we develop a tailored strategy to achieve the best possible results for our clients.
Common Surgical Errors in Forest Glen
Surgical mistakes can cause serious harm. Common errors include:
- Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: Operating on the wrong body part or performing the wrong procedure due to miscommunication or clerical errors.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving foreign objects inside a patient, leading to infections and complications requiring further surgery.
- Anesthesia Errors: Incorrect anesthesia dosages can cause brain damage, respiratory issues, or awareness during surgery.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A minor mistake can lead to permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or internal injuries.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to monitor post-operative complications such as blood clots, infections, or internal bleeding.
Causes of Surgical Malpractice
Many surgical errors result from avoidable mistakes. Common causes include:
- Inadequate Preoperative Planning: Surgeons must review patient medical records and confirm all details before surgery.
- Poor Communication: Miscommunication between doctors, nurses, and anesthesiologists can result in catastrophic errors.
- Fatigue and Overwork: Exhausted medical professionals are more likely to make mistakes in high-pressure environments.
- Defective or Improperly Sterilized Equipment: Malfunctioning tools or unsanitary conditions can cause infections and complications.
- Deviation from Standard Protocols: Ignoring established safety measures significantly increases the risk of malpractice.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Forest Glen
Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to seek legal action. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Illinois is two years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Exceptions exist for minors and cases involving delayed injury recognition.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims
Victims of surgical malpractice in Forest Glen 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 time or permanent disability.
- Pain & Suffering: Financial recovery 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 Forest Glen
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Get a second opinion or corrective treatment to prevent further harm.
- Obtain Your Medical Records: Request copies of surgical reports, test results, 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: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Forest Glen
Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Forest Glen 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 Forest Glen
- Illinois State Bar Association – Legal resources and malpractice law updates.
- Cook County Health Department – Assistance in filing complaints and accessing patient advocacy services.
- Forest Glen Medical Support Network – Community-based support groups for surgical malpractice victims.
- Forest Glen Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery resources for malpractice victims.
- Chicago Police Department – 17th District – 4650 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60630 – 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 assess any 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 have claims against both parties 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.
