Divorce Law and You

People are very happy to meet and enjoy each other's company while dining out once again. However, you and your loved ones could encounter a very unpleasant problem in some cases. You have the right to eat at a restaurant without becoming ill. Those who have been harmed by bad food may be eligible for compensation. Find out more and know what steps to take if you suspect food poisoning after a restaurant meal.

Was it Food Poisoning?

If you are the victim of food poisoning, you could become very ill in a short time. Foodborne illnesses can show up mere hours after consuming the affected food or drink. If you become sick up to 72 hours after a restaurant meal, suspect food poisoning. The symptoms can vary from vomiting and diarrhea to abdominal pain and fever. Take action quickly to avoid becoming dehydrated from the loss of fluids.

What Diners Should Do

Once you know that you are very ill because of a restaurant meal, take actions that protect both your health and your ability to be paid what you deserve. It is the restaurant's fault that you consumed bad food. It cannot be blamed on you, the waiter, or even the cook. The restaurant is responsible for the food that is fed to customers and its safety. Follow the below steps so that all issues are addressed in a timely manner:

1. Seek medical treatment as soon as you notice any signs of illness. Go to the emergency room or make an appointment with your doctor right away. You may need intravenous fluids to avoid dehydration. Be sure to tell medical personnel that you suspect you have food poisoning. Many food-borne illnesses can be confirmed with a blood test.
2. If you dined with others, contact them and let them know about your illness. They may also be suffering from food poisoning. Also, contact your local health department and the restaurant to inform them of your illness.
3. Preserve any evidence such as restaurant bills, medical bills, etc. in case you need proof of the date and time you dined out. You will need evidence to show that you became ill because of the food if you pursue compensation from the restaurant.
4. Once you begin to recover from your bout, make an appointment with a personal injury attorney and explain what happened. The attorney will look at your evidence and advise you on how to proceed.

You may be eligible for compensation that includes medical expenses, lost wages from work, reimbursement for your meal, pain and suffering, and more.

For more information, contact a personal injury attorney near you.