Two people have died in Louisiana after consuming raw oysters contaminated with Vibrio Vulnificus bacteria. This tragic case is just the latest in an increase in Vibrio cases in the region, where at least 4 other people have been killed in Louisiana alone, and throughout the United States.
At Hill Law Firm, we are investigating the situation and believe that more contaminated oysters from the Gulf Coast region are likely being served in restaurants and sold at markets across several states.
If you or a loved one became seriously ill after eating raw oysters from Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, or Florida, the attorneys at Hill Law Firm are ready to help. We have a strong history of holding large companies accountable in food poisoning cases, and we fight for victims harmed by contaminated food.
Call us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you seek justice.
Why Choose Hill Law Firm for Food Poisoning Cases
Foodborne illness cases are complex and often involve powerful companies and insurance carriers. At Hill Law Firm, we know what it takes to build a strong claim. Here is why people across the Gulf Coast trust us after a serious food poisoning outbreak:
- Decades of experience handling foodborne illness and contamination cases
- A track record of taking on large companies and winning
- Personalized attention for every client and every case
- No upfront fees – we only get paid if we win for you
- Free consultations so you can understand your rights before moving forward
Understanding Vibrio Vulnificus Infections
Vibrio vulnificus is a dangerous bacterium that thrives in warm coastal waters, including the Gulf of Mexico. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people can get sick if they eat raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters. While many strains of Vibrio cause mild illness, Vibrio vulnificus can lead to life-threatening infections. The CDC reports that about one in five people with this infection die, sometimes within a day or two.
The Gulf Coast is a major oyster-producing region in the United States. Oysters feed by filtering out seawater. If that water is ripe with bacteria, a single oyster could contain as many as a million Vibrio vulnificus cells. If the source of the contamination is found to be the Gulf Coast waters, a significant portion of the oysters served in restaurants may be affected.
Gulf Coast oysters are raised in bays and coastal waters across Texas in Galveston Bay, Alabama in Mobile Bay and Dauphin Island, Florida in the Panhandle and Big Bend region, and Louisiana in Caminada Bay and other coastal areas. These oysters are grown both on natural beds using traditional methods and through modern oyster farming with cages suspended in the water.
Common Symptoms of Vibrio Vulnificus Food Poisoning
If you or someone you love ate raw oysters and then became ill, you should know the signs of a possible Vibrio vulnificus infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Fever and chills
- Skin lesions or blisters if the infection spreads to the bloodstream
- Low blood pressure or septic shock in severe cases
Early treatment with antibiotics can be lifesaving. But even with quick care, many victims face long hospital stays and lasting health complications.
Who May Be Liable for Raw Oyster Food Poisoning
Food poisoning cases are not simple. Determining who is responsible often requires an investigation into the food supply chain. Potentially liable parties may include:
- Seafood distributors who sold contaminated oysters
- Restaurants that served raw shellfish without proper warnings
- Retailers or markets that failed to keep oysters at safe temperatures
- Processors or suppliers that did not follow safety regulations
Our team can gather evidence, consult medical experts, and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
Compensation in Vibrio Vulnificus Lawsuits
The financial and emotional cost of a serious infection can be overwhelming. While the total compensation depends on the circumstances surrounding each case, victims and families may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency and ongoing medical treatment
- Lost income during recovery or long-term disability
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one has passed away
Every case is different, but our goal at Hill Law Firm is always to secure the maximum recovery possible for our clients.
How Hill Law Firm Can Help in Food Poisoning Cases
Foodborne illness claims require a deep understanding of laws and regulations, significant legal and financial resources, and a willingness to take on large corporations. Hiring an experienced attorney means you have someone to handle every step of your case, including:
- Investigating where the oysters came from and how they became contaminated
- Working with medical experts to prove your illness was caused by Vibrio vulnificus
- Filing claims against all responsible parties
- Negotiating with insurance companies that try to minimize payouts
- Taking the case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached
By working with Hill Law Firm, you can focus on recovery while our team handles the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vibrio Vulnificus Food Poisoning Lawsuits
How do I know if my food poisoning came from oysters?
Doctors can run lab tests to confirm Vibrio vulnificus. If you became sick after eating raw oysters and a test confirms this bacterium, it is strong evidence that contaminated oysters caused your illness. In such cases, it is likely that others became ill in a similar way, providing more evidence to the source of the contamination.
Can I sue a restaurant for serving tainted oysters?
Yes. Restaurants have a duty to serve safe food. If they served oysters that made you sick, they may be liable for your damages. Additionally, there may be several other liable parties, from food distributors to manufacturers.
What if I have a weak immune system?
People with liver disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems are more likely to suffer severe Vibrio infections. Restaurants and suppliers know the risks of raw oysters and should take extra precautions to protect vulnerable customers.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
Each state has its own deadline, called a statute of limitations. In general, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve evidence.
What if a loved one died from Vibrio vulnificus?
Families may be able to bring a wrongful death claim for medical costs, funeral expenses, and the loss of companionship. Our team can guide you through this difficult process.
Call Hill Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one became seriously ill after eating raw oysters in Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, or Florida, contact Hill Law Firm today. Our food poisoning attorneys have the experience and resources to take on large companies and win for our clients. Do not wait – call us as soon as yo u are able or fill out our online form to get started on your case.