Illinois regulations require nursing homes and assisted living facilities to provide adequate care and safety for their residents. When one of these facilities fails to meet those standards, elderly residents become vulnerable. From poorly-trained staff to failure to provide timely medical care, nursing homes may be liable for personal injury to residents. If you suspect that you or a loved one was abused in a nursing home, a Hazel Crest nursing home abuse lawyer can investigate your case and, if needed, help you file a personal injury claim.
Abuse can take many forms, the most common of which include:
While some signs of nursing home abuse are readily apparent, others may be harder to detect. Some common signs of abuse include bedsores, malnourishment, poor hygiene, unexplained bruising, loss of possessions, or the sudden change in financial documents. Hazel Crest nursing home abuse attorneys are experienced in investigating these cases and identifying the evidence to build a nursing home abuse claim.
Nursing homes are required by federal and state law to have sufficient nursing staff to provide for the quality physical, mental, and emotional well-being of each resident. A facility may be liable for personal injury damages when they fail to provide training and oversight to staff, maintain inadequate staffing levels, or fail to implement monitoring systems. Merely having the policies in place does not shelter them from liability. If a resident suffers as a result of a nursing home’s failure to meet federal and state standards, the facility may be liable for injury damages.
To file a nursing home abuse case in Hazel Crest, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant was negligent by establishing:
If nursing home abuse is suspected, it is essential to get in touch with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Under Illinois law, there is a two-year statute of limitations requiring plaintiffs to file a lawsuit within two years from the date of injury, though there are a number of exceptions.
Families may pursue a negligence claim if they believe their loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home. The total amount awarded to the plaintiff will vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the injuries and losses. If the claim is successful, the victim may be awarded damages, which could cover medical expenses, lost wages, facility expenses, and noneconomic damages like pain and suffering.
You can take to steps to help your loved one who is suffering. Hazel Crest nursing home abuse lawyers are skilled at representing individuals who have been abused in a nursing home. They are equipped to provide you with the support and legal guidance you need to pursue damages. Contact an attorney today to discuss your case.