Illinois E Coli Attorney

If you or a loved one has suffered from E. coli contamination, you deserve trusted legal representation to fight for your rights. Our Illinois E. Coli attorneys at the Lange Law Firm, PLLC specialize in handling cases related to foodborne illness. Arrange a free consultation to review your E. Coli lawsuit by calling (833) 330-3663 or messaging us online.

Why Choose Our Illinois E. Coli Attorney?

Selecting the right legal representation for your E. Coli lawsuit is crucial for securing a favorable outcome. At The Lange Law Firm, we bring extensive experience in handling E. Coli cases, providing our clients with dedicated advocacy and personalized support. Clients choose us for several reasons:

• With a track record of securing millions of dollars in compensation for our clients, we have the resources and knowledge to achieve successful outcomes.
• We firmly believe that food sold for profit should meet safety standards, and we advocate for victims of E. Coli contamination to hold negligent parties accountable.
• Our firm has a nationwide food safety practice, allowing us to assist victims of severe food poisoning across the United States.
• Lange has been pleased with the acknowledgment from leading news outlets, which underscores their expertise in food safety advice and reinforces their firm’s unwavering dedication to advocating for their clients’ rights and interests.
• We understand the challenges our clients face after experiencing E. Coli, and we are committed to providing them with the support and guidance they need to rebuild their lives.

Our Victories

Here are a few of the substantial settlements or verdicts our E. Coli lawyers have secured for victims of foodborne illness:

• $7 Million — on behalf of four people who were injured or died due to a contaminated food product.
• $4 Million — Products liability case for the family of a 54-year-old man who died.
• $3.6 Million — Products liability case for the family of a 58-year-old woman who did.
• $3.6 Million — Products liability case for a 74-year-old man who died.
• $3.2 Million — Products liability case for a 75-year-old man who died.

How an Illinois E. Coli Attorney Can Benefit Your Case

An E. Coli lawyer can provide numerous benefits to your case:

• Legal Expertise: Coli lawyers specialize in handling cases related to foodborne illness and have in-depth knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and legal strategies.
• Case Evaluation: They can assess the merits of your case, helping you understand your legal options and the potential outcomes.
• Investigation: An E. Coli attorney can thoroughly investigate the source of the E. Coli contamination, determine liability, and gather evidence to support your claim.
• Negotiation: They can negotiate with insurance companies and responsible parties on your behalf, seeking fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, E. Coli lawyers are prepared to litigate your case in court, advocating for your rights and pursuing maximum compensation.
• Support and Guidance: Coli lawyers provide support and guidance throughout the legal process, answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and keeping you informed every step of the way.

Illinois Laws Applicable to E. Coli Cases

Product liability laws in Illinois regulate the accountability of manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for injuries resulting from faulty or dangerous products, including food contaminated with E. coli bacteria. These statutes offer avenues for individuals harmed by consuming contaminated food to pursue legal for their damages.

Illinois Statutes, Chapter 735, Act 5: Article II, Part 21, Section 5/2-2101

“Product liability action” means a civil action brought on any theory against a manufacturer or product seller for harm caused by a product.”

Most E. Coli cases are brought on the grounds of strict liability.

Strict Liability

Under strict liability, plaintiffs (E. Coli victims) must only establish that a food product was defective or unreasonably dangerous, leading to their illness rather than proving the defendant’s (at-fault party’s) negligence. According to 735 ILCS 5/2-621:

“A (manufacturer, wholesaler, distributor, retailer, processor of materials, maker of a component part) that sells a product in a defective condition is liable for injury that results from use of the product when the product is used for its intended or reasonably foreseeable purpose.”

Plaintiffs may argue that the food product became contaminated due to mishandling, inadequate processing, or improper storage, rendering it unreasonably dangerous for consumers.

Negligence

Plaintiffs may also pursue E. Coli claims based on negligence. However, bringing a claim on the grounds of negligence requires plaintiffs to prove that the defendant owed them a duty of care, typically by demonstrating a legal obligation to ensure the safety of the food product in question. Secondly, the defendant breached this duty of care by failing to uphold reasonable standards for food safety, such as through negligent handling, processing, or storage of the product. Thirdly, the plaintiff must establish that this breach of duty directly caused their E. Coli infection, typically by showing that they consumed contaminated food sold or distributed by the defendant. Finally, there must be evidence of the damages they suffered due to the E. Coli infection.

Breach of Warranty

Plaintiffs may also assert claims for breach of either express or implied warranties. A breach of warranty occurs when a representation or assurance regarding a product, made by either the manufacturer or the seller, is not fulfilled or proves to be false. Governed by federal and state laws, including provisions outlined in the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), these regulations establish criteria that render a warranty invalid under specific conditions.

Statute of Limitations

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for product liability claims is generally governed by the Illinois Compiled Statutes, specifically 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Under this statute:

“Actions for damages for an injury to the person…shall be commenced within 2 years next after the cause of action accrued…”

Therefore, the time limit for filing a product liability lawsuit is typically two years from the date you consumed the contaminated product. Additionally, products liability lawsuits are subject to a statute of repose, which is determined by the earliest expiration date from the following periods:

• Ten years from the date of the initial sale, lease, or delivery of possession to the initial consumer or user, or
• Twelve years from the date of the initial sale, lease, or delivery of possession by a seller.

Due to these deadlines, it is crucial for individuals who believe they have an E. Coli claim to consult an experienced Illinois E. Coli Attorney as soon as possible.

Contact Our Illinois E. Coli Lawyer Today

When you choose The Lange Law Firm, you will have an Illinois E. Coli Attorney who will fight tirelessly for your rights and well-being. Call or message us online to arrange a free case review today.