Legionnaires’ Disease Compensation Claims
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria. Whilst uncommon, it can be serious, leading to long-term health problems and even death. It is possible to be exposed to the bacteria while travelling abroad or in the UK, and if you believe you have contracted Legionnaires’ disease as a result of contaminated water during travel, you are entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Our expert solicitors have a wealth of experience when it comes to dealing with illnesses that have their origins in travel, with Legionnaires’ disease being one of a number of illnesses that clients of ours have suffered from and pursued claims for. We can help to ensure you receive compensation, so get in touch with us as soon as you know you would like to make a claim.
To speak to a solicitor about making a Legionnaires' disease compensation claim, call us today on 0345 872 6666, or complete our online enquiry form and a member of the claims team will be in touch at a time convenient for you.
How JMW Can Help
Our expert solicitors will work with you to understand exactly how the disease has affected you, what sacrifices you have had to make in your life, and to what extent you have been left out of pocket as a result. Once we know all of this, we will work hard to get you the compensation that realistically addresses all of these sacrifices and puts you back in the position you would have been in, were it not for your illness.
If you have travelled abroad on a package holiday, or have enjoyed a staycation in the UK, you have protection under the relevant regulations. We can help you claim compensation from your tour operator if you contracted Legionnaires’ disease in your hotel abroad. If you didn’t travel as part of a package holiday, you may still be able to bring your claim against the responsible insurer in the UK.
The normal time limit for pursuing a Legionnaires' disease compensation claim against your tour operator is three years. However, in certain circumstances, the time limit may be much shorter, so our advice is always to seek specialist legal input from our team as soon as you decide you'd like to claim, to allow time for a thorough investigation.
What Our Clients Say
What is Legionnaires' Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is an infection of the lung that you can catch by inhaling bacteria from droplets of water from an infected source, such as a fountain, air conditioning unit or a hot tub, making it possible to contract while staying in a hotel or other accommodation abroad.
Initial symptoms are similar to that of flu, and may include a temperature, muscle ache, headaches and confusion. If you have symptoms and are concerned that you may have contracted Legionnaires’ disease, speak to your GP and raise your concerns. If you have travelled abroad to anywhere there has been an outbreak, you should let your GP know.
There is an incubation period for Legionnaires’ disease, so it is vital you instruct specialist solicitors, such as the team at JMW, who can investigate your case if the source is unclear and help you make a claim for compensation.
What Are Common Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease?
If you contract Legionnaires' disease, recognising the symptoms is key for timely diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms can vary but often include the following:
- High fever, often above 38°C
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Persistent cough (dry or producing mucus)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea)
- Confusion or changes in mental status
- Progression to pneumonia in severe cases
- Weakened immune system
If you exhibit these symptoms after potential exposure to contaminated water sources, seek medical attention promptly.
Who is Most at Risk of Contracting Legionnaires' Disease?
Anyone can be susceptible to Legionella bacteria; however, there are certain groups who can be more at risk, including:
- Those aged over 50
- Those who have pre-existing breathing problems
- Those who suffer from diabetes or kidney, lung or heart disease
- Smokers or those who used to smoke heavily
- Heavy drinkers
- Those who have a weakened immune system
FAQs About Legionnaires' Disease
- How do I know if I am eligible to make a Legionnaires' disease compensation claim?
Determining eligibility for a Legionnaires' disease compensation claim involves several key factors. Firstly, you must have been diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease by a medical professional. It is essential to establish a clear link between your illness and exposure to Legionella bacteria, often found in contaminated water sources. If the exposure occurred while staying in a hotel, cruise ship or other accommodation, you might be eligible. Evidence of negligence, such as poor maintenance of water systems, strengthens your claim.
Additionally, if you were part of a package holiday, you have specific protections under relevant regulations. You should also consider if the incident occurred within the last three years, as this is the typical time limit for making a claim. Documenting your travel details, accommodation records, and any reported outbreaks at your location is key.
- How much compensation can I claim for a Legionnaires' disease claim?
The amount of compensation you can claim for Legionnaires' disease varies significantly depending on several factors, and there is no fixed amount. Compensation typically takes into account the severity of your illness, the duration of your recovery, and any long-term health effects. It also considers financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost earnings, and costs for ongoing care or rehabilitation. The specific circumstances of your exposure, including evidence of negligence and the impact on your quality of life, play a critical role in determining the compensation amount.
- What evidence do I need to support my Legionnaires' disease compensation claim?
To support your Legionnaires' disease compensation claim, you will need several pieces of evidence. Firstly, obtain medical records confirming your diagnosis of Legionnaires' disease. Documenting your travel itinerary and accommodation details is necessary, as it establishes where and when you were exposed to the bacteria. Any reports or documentation of Legionella outbreaks at your accommodation or travel destination can significantly strengthen your case. Photographs or records of poor maintenance, such as faulty air conditioning units or water systems, can also be valuable. Collecting witness statements from others who experienced similar symptoms or noticed unsafe conditions is beneficial. Finally, keeping receipts and records of all medical expenses and financial losses related to your illness will help quantify your compensation claim.
- How can you prevent Legionnaires' disease?
Hotels, leisure facilities, restaurants and cruise ships are particularly at risk of outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease. Infection can be prevented by maintaining water systems, including plumbing and air-conditioning systems, as poor hygiene provides the conditions for the bacteria to multiply.
The property owner, landlord, employer or local authority is legally responsible for having procedures in place to prevent the spread of Legionnaires’ disease. These include:
- Conducting regular inspections of water systems
- Cleaning and disinfecting water systems
- Eliminating any rust, algae, limescale and any other substance that would encourage bacterial growth
- Maintaining temperatures to reduce the chances of bacterial growth
A claim for compensation can be made if those responsible for cleaning and maintaining systems and equipment acted negligently and this resulted in an outbreak.
Talk to Us
To make a claim for Legionnaires' disease compensation after contracting the disease through wrongful exposure abroad, call us now on 0345 872 6666, or complete our online enquiry form and someone will get in touch with you. Our personal injury claim team is experienced in securing compensation for Legionnaires' disease claims and will help you every step of the way.
