Indiana Food Poisoning Lawsuit 2024 (Latest Updates)

Facing food poisoning in Indiana can be distressing and complicated. An Indiana food poisoning lawyer can help. With their expertise in such cases, they assist in securing compensation for your suffering, handling the legal proceedings, and finding those responsible for your illness. This article provides insight into leveraging legal expertise to address your food poisoning ordeal.

If you or a loved one has been affected by food poisoning, the team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is on standby to provide the necessary assistance.

We are recognized for our proficiency in representing plaintiffs, and our utmost priority is to ensure that you receive the justice and rightful compensation you are entitled to.

Food Poisoning Lawsuit Overview

The consequences of food poisoning extend beyond physical discomfort, reaching into the realm of justice.

Food poisoning lawyers in Indiana, also known as food poisoning attorneys, are experienced in battling for their clients’ rights and securing financial settlements for those unfortunate enough to fall ill from contaminated food. These food attorneys have even represented victims in cases against major corporations like:

• Walmart
• Dole
• McDonald’s
• Nestle

Determining Liability

A food poisoning case can often feel like an uphill battle, especially when it comes to determining liability. With knowledgeable legal assistance and a firm grasp of foodborne illnesses, one can demonstrate a food establishment or manufacturer’s failure to meet their responsibility for food safety.

This could involve proving that food was contaminated, such as unpasteurized milk, and that this contamination directly resulted in illness.

Any business involved in the food production and serving process can be held legally responsible if they neglect to comply with health and safety regulations. This could cause food poisoning outbreaks, especially affecting vulnerable groups like pregnant women.

In a food poisoning lawsuit, expert witnesses like microbiologists and epidemiologists can provide crucial evidence to back the claim.

What Laws Apply to Food Poisoning Cases?

Laws that apply to food poisoning cases in Indiana include the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21, the Indiana Code (IC) Title 16 Article 42, and the Food Establishment Code to enforce these standards [1]. These laws guide inspections, investigations into foodborne illness complaints, and responses to food emergency incidents.

Food establishments in Indiana are also required to adhere to specific sanitation requirements to prevent foodborne illnesses. This includes the 410 IAC 7-21 Wholesale Food Establishment Sanitation Requirements and 410 IAC 7-24 Retail Food Establishment Sanitation Requirements.

Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, especially if it leads to food poisoning incidents that cause lasting damage, such as kidney failure.

Notable Food Poisoning Cases in Indiana

There have been several notable food poisoning cases in Indiana, with some involving popular food items such as cantaloupe and Mexican food like enchiladas, burritos, and tacos. These cases serve as stark reminders of the potential dangers of foodborne illnesses and the importance of food safety.

In these circumstances, consulting with a food poisoning lawyer is paramount as they can steer you through evidence collection and lawsuit filing. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation.

Understanding Food Poisoning and Its Impact in Indiana

Food poisoning, a frequently overlooked issue, is quite prevalent in Indiana. The usual culprits include bacteria such as:

• Campylobacter
• Salmonella
• Listeria
• E. coli

These bacteria can seriously impact the health of those affected. Symptoms range from stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting to diarrhea and fever. In severe cases, food poisoning can cause lasting damage and even lead to life-threatening conditions.

Common Causes of Food Poisoning in Indiana

Bacteria are the primary cause of food poisoning in Indiana. Some of the most notorious bacteria include [2]:

• Shigella
• Listeria
• Botulinum toxin

These bacteria can enter the food supply at any point, from farm to table, and cause severe illness.

These harmful bacteria are more likely to inhabit certain foods. Some examples include [3]:

• Meat
• Poultry
• Seafood
• Eggs
• Dairy products

This underscores the importance of proper food handling and cooking practices to prevent these bacteria from causing illness.

“Biological contaminants are by far the greatest cause of illness. Many of the risks associated with biological contaminants can be controlled or removed by effective food handling practices.”- The BC Cook Articulation Committee

Recognizing the Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Prompt recognition of food poisoning symptoms is vital for timely medical intervention and, if necessary, lawsuit initiation. Common symptoms include [4]:

• Cramping
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Fever

These symptoms can manifest as quickly as 30 minutes after consuming contaminated food or even up to a week later.

However, severe symptoms that could be more than just an upset stomach include:

• excessive vomiting
• severe stomach cramps
• blood in stool
• high fever
• signs of dehydration

These are serious indications of severe food poisoning and demand immediate medical attention.

Food Poisoning Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Indiana

Compensation amounts awarded in Indiana’s food poisoning lawsuits can significantly vary. Factors that can influence the settlement amount include:

• the details of the lawsuit
• the person making the claim
• the company being sued
• the severity of the injury

Some of the highest settlements in Indiana include $130,000 for two people poisoned in a salmonella outbreak at a funeral luncheon and a staggering $11,000,000 for a nationwide food poisoning salmonella outbreak that resulted in life-altering injuries.

Potential Compensation for Victims of Food Poisoning in Indiana

Victims of food poisoning in Indiana can pursue compensation for an array of damages, including:

• Medical costs
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Medical expenses cover a broad range of costs, such as medical bills, hospital bills, and other related medical expenses.

Victims can also be compensated for:

• any paid time off and vacation days used due to the illness
• ‘pain and suffering’
• ‘loss of enjoyment of life,’ which refers to the reduced ability to enjoy life and engage in activities one used to love.

Filing an Indiana Food Poisoning Lawsuit

Several steps are involved in filing a food poisoning lawsuit in Indiana. The first step is to gather evidence to prove that the food provider is at fault. This involves determining who is responsible and gathering supporting evidence, such as medical records and photos.

The evidence used typically includes:

• Medical records
• Lab test results
• Witness statements
• Documentation of any contaminated food or unsanitary conditions at the food establishment

Victims have a two-year window from the date of the incident or discovery of the illness to file a lawsuit.

Types of Evidence Presented in Food Poisoning Lawsuits

Medical records documenting the diagnosis and treatment of food poisoning are instrumental in lawsuits as they establish a link between the illness and the contaminated food.

Expert testimony from infectious disease experts, food safety experts, and microbiology experts provides invaluable insights about the infection and its impact on the victim.

Scientific evidence, such as laboratory studies and studies estimating the number of illnesses caused by specific foodborne pathogens, are also crucial in building a strong case.

Food sample testing demonstrating that the tested sample had the same disease-causing microbes as the contaminated food ingested by the plaintiff further strengthens the case.

Indiana Statute of Limitation

In Indiana, the statute of limitations allows victims to file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the incident or the discovery of the illness. However, this duration may be extended in certain cases, such as wrongful death related to food poisoning, which allows for a four-year window.

There are also exceptions to the statute of limitations for food poisoning cases in Indiana. These exceptions apply to cases involving plaintiffs with legal disabilities, nonresident defendants, or instances where there was concealment of the wrongdoing.

Related Articles:

• Illinois Food Poisoning Lawsuit
• Hawaii Food Poisoning Attorney
• Idaho Food Poisoning Lawsuit

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

What Four Foods Are the Biggest Offenders of Causing Food Poisoning?

The four foods that are the biggest offenders of causing food poisoning are poultry, seafood, deli meat, and eggs. These foods carry a high risk of contamination, especially when they are not stored, prepared, or cooked properly. They can lead to symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and even death.

Can I File a Lawsuit for Food Poisoning in Indiana?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit for food poisoning in Indiana if you can prove that the food poisoning was caused by negligence, such as improper handling, preparation, or storage of food by a restaurant, retailer, or manufacturer.

How Much Compensation Can I Get for Food Poisoning?

The compensation that you can get for food poisoning can range from a few thousand dollars to over $500,000. Settlement amounts vary based on factors such as the strength of the claim, the severity of injuries and damages, the number of people affected, and other relevant circumstances.

How Do I Prove a Food Poisoning Case in Indiana?

To prove a food poisoning case, you need medical records confirming the illness, evidence linking the food to your illness (such as lab tests or a health department investigation), and documentation of any financial losses incurred.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Food Poisoning in Indiana?

Restaurants, food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers that may have mishandled or improperly prepared the food that caused the poisoning can be held liable for food poisoning in Indiana.

Get Your Free Consultation From Indiana Food Poisoning Lawyers

If you or a loved one has suffered from food poisoning, reach out to Schmidt & Clark, LLP. Our expert team is ready to support you during these challenging times. We specialize in handling food poisoning cases and will guide you every step of the way.

It’s crucial to know your legal rights and determine if you qualify for a lawsuit. We offer free consultations, and you won’t incur any fees unless we win your case.

Get in touch with Schmidt & Clark today for a comprehensive review of your food poisoning case. Let us be your trusted guide through this difficult situation.

Reference:

1. https://www.in.gov/health/food-protection/laws-rules-and-regulations/
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21167-food-poisoning
3. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=90&ContentID=P02019
4. https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/food-poisoning/