Are you or a loved one facing complications from a surgical error in Ottawa, IL? Surgical malpractice can lead to long-term health issues, emotional distress, and financial hardship. Chicago Injury Lawyer is dedicated to holding negligent surgeons, hospitals, and healthcare professionals accountable for their mistakes.
Our experienced legal team fights aggressively to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain 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?
Surgical malpractice cases require skilled legal representation. Here’s why Chicago Injury Lawyer is the right choice for victims in Ottawa:
- Proven Track Record in Medical Malpractice Cases – We have successfully recovered millions for injured clients.
- Knowledge of Local Hospitals – We understand the medical standards at OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center and other Ottawa-area facilities.
- No Upfront Costs – We Only Get Paid If You Win – Our contingency fee structure ensures no financial risk to you.
- Strong Negotiation and Litigation Experience – We fight aggressively for the maximum settlement or take your case to trial.
- Personalized Legal Support – Every client receives individual attention and a strategy tailored to their needs.
Common Types of Surgical Errors in Ottawa, IL
Surgical malpractice can lead to severe injuries and long-term health complications. The most common errors include:
- Wrong-Site Surgery – Performing surgery on the incorrect body part or patient.
- Retained Surgical Instruments – Leaving medical tools such as sponges, gauze, or scalpels inside a patient.
- Anesthesia Errors – Administering incorrect dosages, causing serious complications or fatalities.
- Organ or Nerve Damage – Surgical mistakes that result in paralysis, chronic pain, or long-term disability.
- Post-Surgical Negligence – Failure to properly monitor patients after surgery, leading to infections, internal bleeding, or serious complications.
How Surgical Errors Occur?
Surgical malpractice often results from preventable mistakes by medical professionals. Common causes include:
- Lack of Pre-Surgical Planning – Failing to review patient history and necessary tests before surgery.
- Miscommunication Among Medical Staff – Poor coordination between doctors, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
- Surgeon Fatigue and Overwork – Long hours increasing the likelihood of errors.
- Improper Use of Medical Equipment – Malfunctioning or misused surgical tools leading to complications.
- Failure to Follow Safety Protocols – Ignoring established surgical guidelines, increasing patient risk.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Ottawa, IL
Illinois law protects victims of surgical malpractice, ensuring they have the right to seek financial compensation. Legal protections include:
- Compensation for Medical Expenses – Covers hospital stays, corrective surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings – Recovery for income lost due to medical malpractice.
- Pain and Suffering Damages – Compensation for emotional distress and diminished quality of life.
- Illinois Statute of Limitations – Malpractice claims must be filed within two years of the injury or its discovery.
- Accountability for Negligent Healthcare Providers – Surgeons, anesthesiologists, and hospitals can be held responsible.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Ottawa, IL
A malpractice claim requires a detailed legal strategy to ensure a successful outcome. The process includes:
- Identifying Liable Parties – Determining whether negligence was caused by the surgeon, anesthesiologist, or hospital.
- Filing the Claim Within the Legal Deadline – Ensuring compliance with Illinois malpractice laws.
- Gathering Medical Records and Expert Testimony – Strengthening the case with professional medical evaluations.
- Negotiating a Settlement or Taking the Case to Trial – Seeking the best possible financial recovery for victims.
- Filing in the Proper Court – Cases in Ottawa are handled by the LaSalle County Circuit Court.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims in Ottawa, IL
Victims of surgical negligence may be entitled to significant financial compensation, including:
- Medical Bills and Rehabilitation Costs – Covers additional procedures, hospital stays, and therapy.
- Lost Income and Career Impact – Compensation for missed work and reduced earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering – Monetary relief for physical pain and emotional trauma.
- Punitive Damages – Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence.
- Wrongful Death Compensation – Financial support for families who lost a loved one due to surgical malpractice.
Resources for Victims in Ottawa, IL
If you or a loved one has suffered from surgical malpractice, these local resources may be helpful:
- Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) – Report medical malpractice complaints.
- LaSalle County Bar Association – Find legal representation for malpractice cases.
- Ottawa Police Department – 301 W Lafayette St, Ottawa, IL 61350, for reporting malpractice-related concerns.
- OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center – 1100 E Norris Dr, Ottawa, IL 61350, for continued medical treatment.
- Legal Aid Chicago – Free legal assistance for qualifying malpractice victims.
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 was harmed by a surgical mistake?
Seek immediate medical care to address complications. Then, consult a medical malpractice attorney to assess your case.
Can I sue the hospital if a surgeon made an error?
Yes, hospitals can be held responsible if they employed a negligent surgeon or failed to enforce safety protocols. Your attorney will determine the appropriate legal course of action.
What damages can I recover in a surgical malpractice lawsuit?
Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in extreme cases, punitive damages.
How long do I have to file a surgical malpractice lawsuit in Ottawa, IL?
Illinois law allows two years from the date of injury or discovery to file a malpractice claim. Certain exceptions may apply for minors or late-discovered injuries.
Will my case go to trial, or can it be settled out of court?
Many malpractice cases are resolved through settlements, but if a fair agreement isn’t reached, your attorney will take the case to trial to fight for full compensation.
