Making a Claim for Food Poisoning

Written By: Ayesha Salim on December 20, 2009 One Comment

Food poisoning is much more common than people realise. With the temptations of numerous cafes and restaurants all around us, the danger of contracting food poisoning has increased rapidly. The impact of food poisoning can vary from being fairly minor to very serious, some cases even leading to fatality.

Food poisoning usually occurs after we eat or drink something that is infected with bacteria. Bacterial poisoning usually occurs when the food has not been heated, stored, or cooked properly. In addition, it can be caused by bad hygiene on the part of the chefs preparing the food. Failing to do simple things like washing hands or using clean utensils can all contribute towards causing food poisoning.

What are some of the symptoms of food poisoning?

Many people react differently after contracting food poisoning. This is why there is no one way of knowing how soon a person will become ill or how their body will react. Some people notice the symptoms straight away, whilst others take longer to react. The individual’s health history and the seriousness of the food poisoning are also determining factors on how ill the person will become. The most common symptoms, however, of food poisoning usually involve prolonged stomach aches, dehydration, vomiting, and fever. These can usually be cleared up after seeking appropriate medical advice. However, the more serious cases can sometimes lead to death.

E-Coli food poisoning

This type of bacteria is found in the lower intestines of healthy mammals. If this bacteria is transferred to food it can cause food poisoning if ingested. A way to avoid this from happening is to make sure that you wash and cook food thoroughly. Washing your hands after touching the food will also be an extra precaution to avoid transferring the bacteria to other food through touch.

Avoiding Salmonella poisoning

Salmonella is usually found in meat and poultry, eggs, and unpasteurised milk. It can also be found in untreated water and seafood. Similar to avoiding e-coli poisoning, it is important to heat food thoroughly. This is especially the case with meat. It is also necessary to wash hands thoroughly after handling the food to avoid transferring the bacteria to other food.

It is important you take these steps as once contracted, salmonella food poisoning is particularly hard to get rid of and has the potential of causing serious long-term health problems. The elderly are especially vulnerable as are the ones with a history of health problems.

Am I entitled to make a claim?

If you ate something which you believe led to you suffering from food poisoning and believe this was as a result of another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to make a personal injury compensation claim. You may even be entitled to compensation if you contracted food poisoning whilst abroad on a package holiday.

If you have been a victim of food poisoning, it is important that you retain any medical evidence that supports your claim from your GP. In addition keep hold of any receipts from the restaurant or cafe you suspect you contracted your food poisoning from. Our solicitors will assess your case and help you in your claim.

Ayesha Salim , editor of the UK Lawyers Network, writes articles about solicitors, Personal injury Lawyer, compensation claims, find a solicitor, legal, lawyer, law help advice, solicitors litigation