Seeking Compensation After Getting Sick from a Supplement
Posted on June 21, 2024 in Product Liability
Dietary supplements are a popular choice for many people looking to improve their health and well-being. However, when a supplement causes illness or injury, you have a right to know your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. An Illinois lawyer can help you understand some typical scenarios where you can take legal action against a supplement company and the steps you should take to protect your health and legal interests.
Common Situations Where You Can Sue a Supplement Company
Under Illinois law, you may have grounds for a lawsuit against a supplement company if:
- The supplement contains undisclosed or dangerous ingredients: If a supplement contains ingredients that are not listed on the label or are known to be harmful, the manufacturer may be liable for any resulting injuries.
- The supplement is contaminated: If a supplement is tainted with bacteria, toxins, or other harmful substances due to poor manufacturing practices, you may have a case against the company.
- The supplement makes false or misleading claims: If a supplement company makes unsubstantiated health claims or misrepresents the benefits of its product, the company may be held responsible for any harm caused by its deception.
Steps to Take If You Believe a Supplement Has Made You Sick
If a supplement has made you ill, here is what you should do:
- Seek medical attention: If you experience any adverse health effects after taking a supplement, you should seek medical care immediately. Your health should be your top priority; a healthcare professional can help diagnose and treat your condition.
- Document your experience: Keep a record of the supplement you took, including the brand, dosage, and lot number. Also, document any symptoms you experienced and any medical treatment you received. This information will be valuable evidence in a potential lawsuit.
- Report the incident: Notify the supplement company and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) about your experience. The FDA collects reports of adverse events related to supplements and can investigate potential safety issues.
- Preserve the evidence: If you have any remaining supplements from the bottle or package that made you sick, save them for testing. This evidence can help prove that the supplement was contaminated or contained dangerous ingredients.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Under Illinois law, supplement companies have a legal duty to ensure that their products are safe and free from harmful ingredients or contaminants. If the company fails to meet this obligation and you suffer injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
It is important to note that product liability cases involving supplements can be challenging. Supplement companies often have significant resources and may vigorously defend against legal claims. However, with the help of an attorney, you can potentially have a better outcome when trying to get compensation.
Contact a Kane County, IL Product Liability Attorney
If you have been harmed after taking a supplement, you may have legal options. By working with an Aurora, IL product liability lawyer, you can strategize the following steps to take and organize the evidence you have to create a solid case. Call Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. at 630-907-0909 to start with a free consultation.