Nursing Home Falls Are Often Caused by Negligence

 Posted on February 24, 2023 in Nursing Home Abuse

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and even death for elderly individuals, especially those in nursing homes. As such, it is essential that staff at these facilities do their utmost to ensure the safety of their patients. Unfortunately, due to negligence or carelessness, falls can still occur, causing serious and potentially life-threatening injuries. When a nursing home resident falls because of negligent care, the resident or the resident’s family may be able to file a claim against the facility.

Falling Presents an Extreme Hazard to Nursing Home Residents 

An estimated 1,800 nursing home residents die because of fall accidents each year. Falling can result in lacerations, broken bones, internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries, and more.

Falling is extremely dangerous - especially for elderly people and those with disabilities.  Fractures, brain injuries, and even death can occur due to a fall. Nursing home staff and management must take steps to reduce the risk of falls as much as possible and provide residents with proper care. This includes ensuring that living quarters are safe and free from potential hazards, monitoring patient mobility, providing appropriate assistive devices for those who need them, and ensuring that the facility is well-lit and secure. 

If a nursing home fails to uphold its duty of care, it may be liable for any resulting injuries or deaths. If you believe that a loved one has suffered an injury due to negligence at a nursing home, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney right away in order to protect their rights. 

Holding a Nursing Home Accountable for an Injury or Death Caused by Falling

A nursing home negligence claim is a civil claim that a nursing home resident or their loved one may bring against the facility. The claim serves as a means of holding the negligent facility or negligent medical providers accountable. A successful claim may also result in the recovery of monetary damages. You may be able to recover financial compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. 

If your loved one died because of lack of supervision, inadequate medical care, environmental hazards, or other problems in a nursing home, you can take legal action on your loved one’s behalf. You may be able to recover damages for economic losses such as funeral expenses as well as non-economic losses. Most importantly, a wrongful death claim may give you a sense of justice and peace of mind after losing someone you love. 

Contact a Chicago Nursing Home Fall Injury Lawyer

Nursing homes have a legal duty to keep the premises reasonably safe. If your loved one was injured or killed because of a nursing home fall, contact Schwartz Injury Law to discuss your legal options. Call our office at 312-535-4625 for a free consultation with an experienced Illinois nursing home injury attorney.

Source:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358