The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that in the United States alone, food poisoning causes about 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and up to 5,000 deaths each year. One of the most common bacterial forms of infection, the salmonellae organisms, account for $1 billion in medical costs and lost work time per year.

Food usually becomes contaminated from poor sanitation or preparation. Food handlers who do not wash their hands after using the bathroom or have infections themselves often cause contamination. Improperly packaged food stored at the wrong temperature also promotes contamination. While most cases of food poisoning are not serious, some cases of severe food poisoning can result in long-term illness and death.

When you are the victim of negligence by a restaurant or food company, you may have the basis for lawsuit. In order to protect your rights, it is important to talk with a lawyer immediately.

For a free consultation, contact Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C. today at 312-553-4900 or fill out our on-line form to have a lawyer contact you.