It is possible to sue a tattoo artist for bad work. However, whether or not you have a valid case depends on the specific circumstances of your situation.
If the tattoo artist was negligent in some way, such as using unsterilized equipment or failing to follow proper safety procedures, you may have a claim to pursue compensation for your injuries.
A victim can file a personal injury lawsuit with the guidance of an experienced Fort Myers personal injury lawyer. A skilled lawyer can evaluate the facts of your claim and assist you in pursuing a just resolution.
Common causes of tattoo infections
Tattoo infections can be caused by various factors that include the following:
- Contaminated Tattoo Equipment: If the tattoo needles, ink, or other equipment used during the tattooing process are not properly cleaned or sterilized, they can introduce bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens into the skin, potentially leading to an infection.
- Poor Hygiene Practices: Improper hygiene practices during the tattooing process, such as failure to wash hands, wear gloves, or use disposable materials, can increase the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms into the skin, leading to an infection.
- Inadequate Aftercare: Improper or inadequate aftercare of a fresh tattoo can increase the risk of infection.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to tattoo ink or other substances used during the tattooing process can cause inflammation, irritation, and skin damage, which may increase the risk of infection.
- Contaminated Water: Exposure of a fresh tattoo to contaminated water, such as in swimming pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water, can introduce harmful microorganisms into the skin and increase the risk of infection.
Understanding the different types of tattoo infections
Tattoo infections can manifest in different ways and may be caused by various microorganisms. Some types of infections include:
- Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections are the most common type of tattoo infection. They can be caused by different types of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species, which can enter the skin during the tattooing process.
- Viral Infections: Viral infections can also occur due to getting a tattoo, although they are less common than bacterial infections. Viruses such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can be transmitted through contaminated tattoo needles or ink
- Fungal Infections: Fungal infections are relatively rare in tattoos but can occur when the skin is exposed to fungi during the tattooing process or through contaminated tattoo equipment.
- Allergic Reactions: While not necessarily infections, allergic reactions to tattoo ink or other substances used during the tattooing process can cause inflammation, swelling, and discomfort at the tattoo site.
Legal options for recovering compensation for tattoo damage
If you have suffered tattoo damages due to an infection caused by the negligence of a tattoo artist or a tattoo studio, you may have legal options to recover compensation for your damages. There are several different theories upon which a claim can be based:
- Personal Injury Lawsuit: You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the tattoo artist or the tattoo studio if their negligent actions, such as using contaminated equipment or failing to follow proper hygiene practices, directly result in your tattoo infection and subsequent damages.
- Product Liability Lawsuit: If the tattoo infection was caused by a defective tattoo ink or other product used during the tattooing process, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or seller of the product.
- Breach of Contract: If you had a contract with the tattoo artist or the tattoo studio that specified the services to be provided, and they failed to fulfill their contractual obligations, you may have a breach of contract claim.
- Negligence or Professional Malpractice: If the tattoo artist or the tattoo studio fails to meet the standard of care expected of them in the tattoo industry, you may have a claim for negligence or professional malpractice.
- Insurance Claims: If the tattoo artist or studio has liability insurance, you can file a claim with their insurance company to seek compensation for your damages. This could include medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Suffering from tattoo infections? Contact law firm
Individuals may respond differently when getting tattoos, and the effects can vary depending on individual health, tattooing techniques, aftercare practices, and other factors.
It is essential to follow proper aftercare instructions provided by the tattoo artist and to seek medical attention if you notice any unusual or concerning symptoms at the tattoo site.
With an experience of more than 3 decades, we have helped numerous clients pursue compensation for tattoo infections and many other kinds of injuries in Miami, Florida. If you have been hurt or suffered tattoo injuries, you may call the Nationwide Disability Representatives (Berke Law Firm, P.A.), at 800-572-3753 or fill out our contact form online.