Food poisoning primarily occurs when the food or beverages we consume is infected with bacteria, parasites, or viruses. These days it is fairly common and in most cases the symptoms are mild. However, there are some situations when it can be very serious and even lead to fatalities.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, food poisoning is considered a personal injury and, therefore, individuals are entitled to make a personal injury compensation claim as the food poisoning is often a result of somebody else’s negligence.
In some situations, food poisoning may involve a group of people. This may happen when the food or beverage is purchased at a restaurant or grocery store where many people may have consumed the same contaminated food or beverage. If numerous people have similar claims due to a wrongful act of another person or entity, then it is possible to consider a class action (group lawsuit).
The way that food poisoning affects each person’s body can be very different. Some people react right away, while others may not develop symptoms for a week. Symptoms of food poisoning also may vary and can include diarrhea, nausea, fever, chills, and exhaustion. In very serious cases it can cause nervous system damage, paralysis, or death.
If you believe you may have food poisoning, you should visit a doctor or a hospital for treatment, and mention the suspected cause of your illness to the treating doctor. It is also important that you retain any evidence you may have which supports your food poisoning claim. You should also keep receipts from the restaurant, store, or supermarket, as well as receipts from any prescriptions or medication related to your illness.
A consultation with a personal injury lawyer will help you determine if your food poisoning claim can be proven and, therefore, the person or company who allowed you to come into contact with it was negligent.
Feel free to contact Nelligan O’Brien Payne’s Personal Injury lawyers at 613-238-8080 or toll free at 833-892-3331. Alternatively, click here to send us an email.
