If your loved one is in a nursing home, you expect the staff to take great care of them as they live out the rest of their days. This is why uncovering cases of nursing home abuse can be so devastating. You should first report the abuse to the state, but then you should also be prepared to sue for damages. These people need to know how unacceptable their behavior is, and our Queens personal injury attorneys can help you hold them accountable.
What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse can take many forms. Some residents are physically abused while others get neglected. Some are over- or under-medicated. Most types of abuse leave some kind of evidence behind though, so knowing what to look out for can be helpful. Some common indicators of abuse include:
- A change in personality
- Missing belongings
- Unexplained injuries and bedsores
- Nervousness around certain staff members
- Sudden weight loss
- Hunger or dehydration
How Can I Make a Complaint About Nursing Home Abuse?
When you suspect nursing home abuse, you should submit a report to the New York State Department of Health right away. Once you fill out this form, you can send it to the state via email, fax, or mail. You can also call the state and make the report yourself. These reports are confidential, so you do not have to worry that making one will put your loved one in danger.
You should also take the time to gather as much evidence as you can. Photos of the injuries, a diary from your loved one, and eyewitness testimony confirming abuse can all be helpful. Do your best to document everything, including the names of those involved and the dates when incidents occurred.
Can I Sue For Damages If My Loved One Was Abused?
This evidence can help you sue for damages. The compensation can help address:
- Your loved one’s mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- The cost of any treatments needed
You could also receive punitive damages if the behavior of a nursing home and its staff was negligent enough.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
You are not required to hire a lawyer, but an experienced personal injury attorney can do a lot to help you with a nursing home abuse case. Your lawyer can help you:
- Gather evidence
- Hold all liable parties accountable
- Negotiate for compensation
- Prepare to testify
- Build a case that can succeed in court
Whether the insurance companies are ready to settle or we have to take a case all the way to court, we are ready to advocate for our clients for as long as it takes to secure fair compensation.
Talk to an Attorney Today
When you are ready to move forward with a lawsuit, contact the Law Offices of George Poulos. We can take a closer look at your case and tell you more about your legal options.
