Surgical procedures are meant to improve health, but mistakes can lead to serious complications, long-term injuries, or even wrongful death. Patients trust their medical teams to provide safe and effective treatment, but negligence in the operating room can have life-altering consequences.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a surgical error in Washington, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to help you seek justice and fair compensation.
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 a track record of success in handling complex surgical malpractice claims.
- Familiarity with Local Healthcare Facilities: Our team understands the medical procedures at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center – 530 NE Glen Oak Ave, Peoria, IL 61637, and UnityPoint Health – Methodist – 221 NE Glen Oak Ave, Peoria, IL 61636.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We hold hospitals, surgeons, and medical providers accountable for negligence.
- Personalized Legal Strategy: Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to fit your specific legal needs.
Common Surgical Errors in Washington
Surgical mistakes can cause severe, long-lasting injuries. Some common errors include:
- Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: Operating on the wrong body part or patient due to misidentification or poor planning.
- Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving sponges, clamps, or other instruments inside a patient, leading to infections and further complications.
- Anesthesia Mistakes: Overdosing, underdosing, or failing to monitor a patient’s vital signs can cause severe reactions, brain damage, or death.
- Organ or Nerve Damage: A minor mistake can result in paralysis, organ failure, or chronic pain.
- Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to monitor for infections, internal bleeding, or other complications can result in severe harm.
Causes of Surgical Malpractice
Surgical malpractice is often preventable and results from human error or negligence, including:
- Lack of Preoperative Planning: Surgeons must properly review medical records and confirm details before proceeding.
- Poor Communication: Inadequate coordination between surgical teams can lead to catastrophic errors.
- Fatigue and Overwork: Surgeons working long shifts are more likely to make serious mistakes.
- Defective Medical Equipment: Malfunctioning surgical tools can cause significant patient harm.
- Deviation from Standard Protocols: Failing to follow proper surgical guidelines increases the risk of malpractice.
Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Washington
Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to pursue compensation for their injuries. The statute of limitations for filing a malpractice claim is two years from the date of injury or its discovery. Exceptions may apply for minors or cases involving delayed recognition of harm.
Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims
Victims of surgical malpractice in Washington may be entitled to compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, corrective surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Financial recovery for lost income due to extended recovery time or permanent disability.
- Pain & Suffering: Compensation for emotional trauma, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Additional financial penalties in cases of gross negligence.
- Wrongful Death Compensation: Families of deceased victims may seek damages for funeral costs and loss of financial support.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in Washington
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Get a second opinion and corrective treatment if necessary.
- Obtain Your Medical Records: Secure copies of surgical reports, doctor’s notes, and test results for evidence.
- Report the Malpractice: File a formal complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to document the incident.
- Consult a Malpractice Lawyer: A legal professional can help determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.
Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Washington
Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Washington, IL, are processed through the Tazewell County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert medical testimony to prove that a healthcare provider deviated from the accepted standard of care, resulting in patient harm.
Local Resources for Victims in Washington
- Illinois State Bar Association – Legal resources and malpractice law guidance.
- Tazewell County Health Department – Assistance in filing medical complaints and accessing patient advocacy.
- Washington Medical Support Network – Support groups for victims of surgical malpractice.
- Washington Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery resources for malpractice victims.
- Washington Police Department – 115 W Jefferson St, Washington, IL 61571 – Assisting with medical negligence cases involving criminal elements.
- Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office – 101 S Capitol St, Pekin, IL 61554 – 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 I was a victim of surgical malpractice?
Seek medical attention immediately to address any complications. Then, gather your medical records and consult a malpractice lawyer to evaluate your legal options.
Can I sue the hospital and the surgeon for malpractice?
Yes. If both the surgeon and hospital contributed to your injury, you may have a case against both for negligence.
What if my surgical injury wasn’t discovered right away?
Illinois law allows for delayed discovery exceptions, meaning the statute of limitations may start when the injury is identified rather than when the surgery occurred.
How do I prove surgical malpractice?
You must provide evidence that a medical provider’s negligence directly caused your injury. Expert medical testimony is required to validate your claim.
How much does a surgical malpractice lawyer cost?
Most malpractice attorneys, including Chicago Injury Lawyer, work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win your case.
