San Francisco E. Coli Attorney

Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is a type of bacterium that lives in the intestines of humans and animals. Most E. coli strains are harmless and play a vital role in digestion, but some can cause serious illness. Pathogenic strains, such as E. coli O157:H7, can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal cramps and diarrhea. These infections typically arise from contaminated food or water, highlighting the need for good hygiene and food safety practices.

Symptoms of E. coli

Indicators of E. coli poisoning include experiencing severe abdominal pain and cramping, which are often the first symptoms to appear. Persistent diarrhea that becomes bloody is a strong sign. Other indicators are nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration. Signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination, dry mouth, and lightheadedness, can also suggest E. coli poisoning.

What Can Cause E. coli Infections?

Escherichia coli (E. coli) infections can be caused by several factors, primarily involving consuming or handling contaminated food and water. Here are the common causes:

• Undercooked Ground Beef: E. coli bacteria are often found in cattle intestines and can contaminate meat during the slaughtering process. Eating undercooked or raw ground beef is a common source of infection.
• Unpasteurized Milk and Dairy Products: Raw milk can carry E. coli from cows.
• Unwashed Vegetables and Fruits: Fresh produce can be contaminated by E. coli from soil, water, or handling.
• Unpasteurized Juice: Similar to dairy, unpasteurized juices can be contaminated.
• Drinking Contaminated Water: E. coli can enter water supplies through sewage or animal waste.
• Swimming in Contaminated Water: Natural bodies of water, like lakes and rivers, can be contaminated by animal or human feces.
• Poor Hygiene Practices: E. coli can spread from person to person, especially if individuals do not wash their hands properly after using the bathroom or changing diapers.

Preventing E. coli Infections

Preventing E. coli infections involves proper food handling and cooking, good hygiene practices, ensuring safe water sources, and careful interaction with animals.

• Proper Cooking: Ensuring that meat, especially ground beef, is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Handwashing: Regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the restroom, handling raw food, or coming into contact with animals.
• Food Safety Practices: Washing fruits and vegetables, avoiding raw milk, and ensuring that food handlers maintain high hygiene standards.
• Safe Water: Drinking treated water and avoiding recreational water activities in potentially contaminated bodies of water.
• Sanitize Surfaces: Frequently clean and disinfect kitchen countertops, cutting boards, and utensils using hot, soapy water, particularly after they come into contact with raw meat, poultry, or seafood.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Store perishable foods in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) without delay, and ensure that cooked foods are not left out at room temperature for more than two hours (or one hour if the temperature exceeds 90°F or 32°C).

How Much Will an E. coli Attorney Cost?

E. coli lawyers often accept cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning their payment depends on the successful resolution of your case. You don’t have to pay any upfront legal fees or retainers; instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of the compensation you receive from a settlement or court award. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to clients who might not afford it otherwise. The lawyer assumes the financial risk, covering costs such as filing fees and expert witness fees. If successful, their fee is deducted from the total recovery; if not, they receive no payment, and you typically only cover basic court costs. This fee structure aligns the lawyer’s and client’s interests, ensuring the lawyer is motivated to maximize your compensation while providing peace of mind about legal bills during the case.

Statistics on E. coli Cases in San Francisco

In 2017, the incidence rate of E. coli in San Francisco was 6.0 per 100,000 residents, which was an increase from 3.9 the previous year. The increase in illnesses in 2017 can be attributed to a multistate E. coli outbreak linked to leafy greens.

In 2018, California was affected by a large multistate E. coli outbreak caused by romaine lettuce. 36 states were affected, and of the 210 illnesses recorded, 49 were from California.

Other notable E. coli outbreaks in California include:

• I.M. Healthy SoyNut Butter
• Flour
• Baby Spinach
• Raw Cheddar Cheese
• Organic Walnuts

Contact Us Now

Facing E. coli complications? Contact The Lange Law Firm at (833) 330-3663 or message us online today for your free consultation. We will provide you with comprehensive legal support, from case investigation to litigation, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.