Legionnaires’ disease, also known as Legionella pneumonia, is a serious form of pneumonia that is caused by the legionella bacteria. In some cases, it can even be fatal. Legionella bacteria grow quickly in warm water, and while it is found in natural environments, it is also sometimes found in artificial water systems such as cooling towers, hot tubs, and hot water tanks. When people inhale vapor or mist that contains the legionella bacteria, they can become sick. The first symptoms start to appear two days after exposure and become worse over time. If you have become sick and believe you were exposed to the bacteria due to someone else’s negligence, our Compton Legionnaires’ disease lawyer can help you file a claim for compensation. The steps involved in the process are outlined below.
Seek Medical AttentionAs in any personal injury claim, after you have been injured or become sick, it is essential that you see a doctor. Your health is the main priority, and it is critical that you receive treatment for your illness. Seeking medical treatment will also document and confirm the illness, which can help you prove your case in the future.
Call a Compton Legionnaires’ Disease AttorneyAfter you have received a diagnosis from your doctor, it is critical that you speak with a Compton Legionnaires’ disease lawyer. An attorney can accurately value the damages in your claim and prepare a strong case that will hold the liable party accountable for paying the full compensation you deserve.
Identify the SourceLegionella bacteria can be found in any artificial water source. To determine the source of exposure, create a list of any place you visited in the two to 18 days before you started experiencing symptoms. Your attorney will then conduct an investigation to obtain samples from the source, which can prove how you were exposed.
Determine if There Was an OutbreakIf many other people became sick with Legionnaires’ disease after using the same water source that made you sick, that could also help prove your case. Proving that multiple people had the same outcome as you can greatly strengthen your case. Still, you can file a claim even if you were not part of an outbreak.
Report the ExposureAfter receiving a diagnosis, it is important to report your confirmed case to the state and local health departments. Your lawyer can advise you on how to do this and will keep you updated on the epidemiological and environmental investigations the departments will conduct. These include identifying the water source, speaking to people who may have become sick due to the same source, and testing the source to confirm the presence of the legionella bacteria.
Our Legionnaires’ Disease Lawyer in Compton Can Guide You Through the ProcessThe personal injury claim process is complex, but it may be necessary to receive the financial compensation you deserve. At Brod Law Firm, our Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Compton can help you through the process and overcome any challenges that arise so you obtain maximum compensation. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free case review with our experienced attorney.