Surgical procedures require extreme precision, yet preventable mistakes occur too often, leading to serious complications. Patients trust their surgeons to uphold high medical standards, but negligence can result in life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a surgical error in Riverdale, IL, you may have legal rights.
Chicago Injury Lawyer fights for victims of medical malpractice, ensuring they receive the compensation 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?
- Extensive Experience in Medical Malpractice Cases: We have successfully represented clients in surgical malpractice lawsuits across Illinois, including Riverdale.
- Familiarity with Local Medical Providers: Our firm understands medical procedures at Advocate South Suburban Hospital – 17800 S Kedzie Ave, Hazel Crest, IL 60429, and Ingalls Memorial Hospital – 1 Ingalls Dr, Harvey, IL 60426.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Aggressive Legal Representation: We take on hospitals, insurance companies, and negligent medical providers to secure maximum compensation for victims.
- Personalized Case Strategies: Every malpractice case is unique, and we tailor our legal approach to best suit your specific circumstances.
Common Surgical Errors in Riverdale
Surgical mistakes can lead to severe injuries and lifelong medical complications. Some common types of surgical errors include:
- Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: A failure to verify patient details can result in procedures performed on the wrong body part or an entirely different patient.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving tools, sponges, or medical supplies inside a patient’s body can lead to severe infections and further corrective surgeries.
- Anesthesia Mistakes: Administering too much or too little anesthesia can cause serious complications such as oxygen deprivation, cardiac issues, or brain damage.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A small miscalculation during surgery can lead to irreversible nerve damage, paralysis, or organ perforation.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Inadequate monitoring after surgery can result in undetected infections, internal bleeding, or life-threatening complications.
How Surgical Malpractice Happens
Surgical errors often stem from preventable mistakes caused by negligence, including:
- Lack of Preoperative Planning: Medical teams must properly review patient records, confirm procedures, and anticipate complications before surgery.
- Communication Failures: Miscommunication among surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses can lead to devastating medical errors.
- Fatigue and Overwork: Surgeons working long hours under stressful conditions are more likely to make preventable mistakes.
- Defective Medical Equipment: Malfunctioning or improperly maintained surgical tools can result in serious patient harm.
- Failure to Follow Safety Protocols: Ignoring established medical guidelines increases the risk of malpractice and patient injuries.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Riverdale
Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to pursue legal action against negligent medical professionals. The statute of limitations for filing a malpractice claim in Illinois is generally 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
If you have suffered due to surgical malpractice, you may be eligible to recover compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for corrective procedures, extended hospital stays, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages & Future Earning Potential: Compensation for time away from work and any permanent disabilities affecting your ability to earn a living.
- Pain & Suffering: Financial recovery for emotional trauma, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases where gross negligence or reckless medical conduct is proven.
- Wrongful Death Benefits: Families who have lost loved ones due to surgical malpractice may seek damages for funeral costs and financial support loss.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in Riverdale
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Get evaluated by another healthcare professional to prevent further harm and assess your condition.
- Request Your Medical Records: Obtain all surgical reports, test results, and physician notes as evidence for your claim.
- Report the Malpractice: File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to document the incident.
- Consult a Malpractice Attorney: A skilled lawyer can analyze your case and determine the best course of legal action.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Riverdale
Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Riverdale are processed through Cook County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert medical testimony to establish that a healthcare provider deviated from the accepted standard of care and directly caused harm to the patient.
Local Resources for Victims in Riverdale
- Illinois State Bar Association – Legal support and malpractice law guidance.
- Cook County Health Department – Assistance with filing complaints and accessing patient advocacy services.
- Riverdale Medical Support Network – Support groups for individuals affected by medical negligence.
- Riverdale Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery programs for patients affected by surgical errors.
- Riverdale Police Department – 725 W 138th St, Riverdale, IL 60827 – 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 medical malpractice 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 medical records and contact a malpractice lawyer to assess your legal options.
Can I sue a surgeon and the hospital for negligence?
Yes. If both the surgeon and hospital contributed to your injury, you may be able to file claims against both parties for negligence.
What if I discover my surgical injury months later?
Illinois law provides exceptions for delayed discovery, meaning the statute of limitations may begin from the date you became aware of the injury.
How do I prove surgical malpractice?
You need expert medical testimony to demonstrate that the surgeon or medical staff deviated from the standard of care, directly causing your injury.
How much does it cost to hire a surgical malpractice lawyer?
Most malpractice attorneys, including Chicago Injury Lawyer, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless your case is successful.
