The warm weather of the summer months makes food poisoning a common occurrence. People in North Carolina can make sure they prepare food in safe and hygienic ways. However, everybody is vulnerable when they eat at functions, picnics, restaurants and hotels. Freshly prepared foods from salad bars could also be contaminated, and the personal injury consequences can be severe.
Foodborne illnesses or food poisoning is caused by consuming food or drinking water that is contaminated by viruses, parasites, bacteria or toxins. Contamination can occur during production, processing, preparation and service, and it can also occur during the growth, harvesting, shipment, and storage of food products. Common carriers include fish, meat, eggs, shellfish, dairy products and mayonnaise.
Typical symptoms of food poisoning include stomach cramps, upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, fever and vomiting. They can develop within hours of consuming contaminated products or even days later. Mild cases can resolve themselves, but more severe cases need medical treatment to avoid brain damage, chronic arthritis, nerve damage or kidney damage.
Anyone in North Carolina who suffers food poisoning as the result of consuming contaminated food might have grounds to file claims for recovery of damages through the civil justice system of the state. This could lead to either a premises liability claim if the contaminated food was served at an establishment or a product liability claim if the illness was caused by eating purchased produce. This might seem like a daunting task, but an experienced personal injury attorney can provide the necessary support and guidance throughout the ensuing legal proceedings. If the case is successfully presented, economic and non-economic damages might be recovered.
