Washington Product Liability Lawyers Tackling Food Contamination

Food borne illness, also known as food poisoning, affects approximately 76 million Americans a year. Though most cases are mild and short-lived, many of those who contract food poisoning become seriously ill, and some even die. Children's health is especially susceptible to the dangers of food that has been contaminated due to mishandling or improper preparation. Washington state law entitles you to damages if you have suffered food poisoning due to unhealthy sanitation practices.

• Causes of Food Contamination
• Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Causes of Food Contamination

Food poisoning is almost always the result of improper growing, processing, distribution, or preparation of food. Produce may become contaminated with salmonella, shigella, or Escherichia coli (E. coli). Meat and eggs may also become contaminated. Cooked food that is left unrefrigerated for more than two hours invites bacteria growth and may cause serious illness. A restaurant, factory, farm, or any other place where food is handled may be responsible for food contamination by neglecting standard health procedures. When sanitation and proper food preparation procedures are ignored, food poisoning is inevitable. The contaminated food may cause viruses and parasites, which in turn lead to health problems. Victims of food poisoning may be entitled to compensation under the law. If you feel you have suffered because of food contamination that could have been prevented with appropriate health measures, contact Phillips & Webster for a free case review.

back to top

Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Most cases of food poisoning are marked by symptoms similar to those of the intestinal flu. Food poisoning can range from mild to serious depending on many factors, including the level of contamination and the health of the victim. Symptoms of food poisoning may include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Shock

Though food poisoning is often only a minor inconvenience, it can at times result in serious illness or even death. If you suspect you have suffered food poisoning or if a loved one has suffered a wrongful death related to food poisoning, you may wish to seek financial compensation from those responsible. Victims of food poisoning and their families may file a personal injury lawsuit for the illness which has been suffered.

back to top

Contact Knowledgeable Washington Product Liability Attorneys

The personal injury attorneys at Phillips & Webster are experienced in product liability cases and have successfully fought on behalf of many victims of food poisoning. Contact Phillips & Webster for a case evaluation at no cost to you.

back to top