Nursing home abuse and neglect is sadly a common problem in the United States, but only a handful of cases are reported. If you or a loved one is a victim of abuse or neglect, you must take swift legal action to prevent future abuse and ensure future safety.
But who exactly is entitled to take legal action against a nursing home?
Victims of Nursing Home Abuse
Victims can take legal action and advocate for themselves. This action can be taken against management, staff, and owners. If the nursing home resident cannot speak for themselves, it is often left to another party to file a lawsuit.
Family Members
Often, nursing home claims are brought by concerned family members who suspect mistreatment. These cases can be brought by a conservator or a victim’s legal representative if such a person has been appointed.
Know the signs of nursing home abuse, and if you suspect your loved one is being abused, make several unannounced visits and take notes to support your claim. You can take your concerns to management; however, you are advised to speak with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to learn more about your legal rights.
Wrongful Death
Unfortunately, many do not know of abuse until it’s too late to save their family member. If a loved one has died from abuse or neglect, some family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Often these cases are brought by a surviving spouse, child, or a representative of the estate. A personal injury attorney will help you determine if you are eligible and the best course of action.
Contact an Experienced Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
It’s up to everyone to hold the nursing home accountable and prevent abuse. Staff, family members, law enforcement, and the agencies responsible for keeping residents safe should remain hyper-vigilant to ensure the safety of seniors in nursing facilities.
Saladino & Schaaf has decades of experience representing Kentuckians in personal injury lawsuits, including elder abuse or neglect. If you or a loved one have been injured or otherwise abused while residing at a nursing home, contact us online or at 270-444-0406 (Paducah Office) or 270-753-1592 (Murray Office) to schedule a free consultation today. You may be entitled to significant compensation, but the clock is ticking.