Surgical procedures require precision and skill, yet preventable errors still occur. Patients put their trust in medical professionals, but negligence during surgery can lead to serious complications. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a surgical mistake in Oakland, you may have legal options.
Chicago Injury Lawyer fights for surgical malpractice victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and suffering.
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?
- Decades of Medical Malpractice Experience: Our legal team has handled numerous surgical malpractice cases in Oakland, advocating for injured victims in Coles County Circuit Court.
- Knowledge of Local Healthcare Facilities: We understand medical standards at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center – 1000 Health Center Dr, Mattoon, IL 61938, and Carle Foundation Hospital – 611 W Park St, Urbana, IL 61801.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay legal fees unless we secure compensation for your case.
- Aggressive Negotiation & Litigation: We fight against hospitals and insurance companies to ensure malpractice victims get the justice they deserve.
- Personalized Legal Strategy: Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to your specific medical malpractice claim.
Common Surgical Errors in Oakland
Surgical errors can lead to serious health consequences, requiring additional medical care. Some common mistakes include:
- Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: Operating on the wrong body part or performing surgery on the wrong patient due to misidentification.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving tools, sponges, or medical devices inside a patient after surgery, leading to infections or further complications.
- Anesthesia Errors: Incorrect anesthesia administration can cause brain damage, breathing problems, or even death.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A minor surgical misstep can cause long-term disabilities, paralysis, or chronic pain.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to monitor patients after surgery can result in undetected infections, internal bleeding, or fatal complications.
How Surgical Malpractice Occurs
Surgical errors often stem from preventable negligence. Common causes include:
- Lack of Preoperative Planning: A failure to review patient history, verify surgical sites, or properly prepare for procedures.
- Miscommunication: Poor coordination between medical teams increases the risk of errors in the operating room.
- Fatigue and Overwork: Exhausted surgeons and nurses are more prone to making costly mistakes.
- Defective Equipment: Malfunctioning surgical tools or improper sterilization can lead to severe infections and injuries.
- Deviation from Standard Procedures: Failing to follow established surgical protocols increases the likelihood of malpractice.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Oakland
Under Illinois law, surgical malpractice victims have the right to pursue legal action. The statute of limitations for filing a malpractice claim is generally two years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Exceptions apply in cases involving minors or delayed recognition of harm.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims
If you suffered harm due to a surgical mistake, you may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for corrective surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Compensation for time away from work and permanent disabilities affecting income.
- Pain & Suffering: Financial recovery for emotional trauma, chronic pain, and diminished quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases involving gross negligence or reckless conduct.
- Wrongful Death Claims: Families of deceased victims can seek compensation for funeral costs and loss of financial support.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in Oakland
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Obtain corrective treatment from another healthcare provider to minimize further harm.
- Request Your Medical Records: Secure copies of surgical reports, imaging scans, and physician notes for evidence.
- Report the Malpractice: File a formal complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to create an official record of the incident.
- Consult a Malpractice Lawyer: A qualified attorney can assess your case and determine the best legal action to pursue compensation.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Oakland
Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Oakland are handled in Coles County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert testimony to prove that a healthcare provider’s actions deviated from the accepted medical standard of care and caused harm.
Local Resources for Victims in Oakland
- Illinois State Bar Association – Legal support and malpractice law resources.
- Coles County Health Department – Assistance in reporting medical negligence and patient advocacy programs.
- Oakland Medical Support Network – Community support for surgical malpractice victims.
- Oakland Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery services for those affected by surgical negligence.
- Oakland Police Department – 15 E Main St, Oakland, IL 61943 – Assistance in reporting medical negligence cases involving criminal liability.
- Coles County Sheriff’s Office – 701 7th St, Charleston, IL 61920 – 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)
How do I know if I have a surgical malpractice case?
If you experienced unexpected complications, pain, or additional medical procedures due to a surgical mistake, you may have a case. A malpractice lawyer can review your medical records and determine whether negligence occurred.
Can I sue the hospital and the surgeon for malpractice?
Yes. If both the hospital and the surgeon played a role in your injury, you may file claims against both parties for negligence.
What if I discovered my injury months or years after the surgery?
Illinois law allows exceptions for delayed discovery, meaning the statute of limitations may begin when you first became aware of the injury.
Do I need expert medical testimony to prove my case?
Yes. Illinois requires expert witnesses to confirm that a 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 don’t pay any legal fees unless you win your case.
