Nursing home neglect and accident cases are probably more common than most people realize. However, oftentimes, these types of cases do not get much publicity. In addition, many accident and injury lawyers in Pennsylvania do not handle nursing home negligence cases. One of the often cited reasons is that these types of cases are just not worth the time and effort. That view is entirely wrong. Victims in these types of cases deserve justice, whether it’s an elderly nursing resident or a disabled resident of a group home.
The elderly, infirm and disabled are often underrepresented and are incredibly vulnerable; many cannot speak up for themselves. This is one of the main reasons why long term care facility abuse and neglect occurs, and it is also one of the main reasons our law firm focuses on handling these cases. In order to prevent abuse and neglect in long term care facilities like a nursing home, injured victims must take a stand and assert their legal rights. Otherwise, the very institutions responsible for such residents carry on, and abuse/neglect continues.
Over the last few months, there have been a slew of cases involving abuse or neglect of nursing home residents in the tri-state area. In New York, there are two ongoing cases of serious allegations of nursing home abuse/neglect. In March, the NY Attorney General announced arrests of 10 employees at a nursing home in Rochester, NY. The resident was a double amputee with serious health conditions, including diabetes, impaired cognition and blood pressure fluctuation. In addition, he was partially paralyzed in his upper body. His son became suspicious of abuse and set up a camera which revealed disturbing abuse. The resident was left alone for long periods of time, and his medical treatment regimen was ignored. Medications were not dispensed and blood pressure and blood sugar levels were not measured. Six nurses and four nursing aides face a range of charges, including falsifying records. Source: www.ag.ny.gov, Press Release 3/25/14
Another New York nursing home faces similar charges after a resident died due to failure to keep her ventilator operating. At least six nursing home employees have been arrested thus far. The most serious charge is negligent homicide. Other charges include falsifying records and tampering with physical evidence. Source: http://www.newsday.com, Medford nursing home administrator, employees indicted on charges of fatal neglect
Justice in the Criminal and Civil Courts
These types of criminal investigations can function to punish the wrongdoers and can deter future acts of abuse and neglect. In addition, the victims and/or their families may obtain justice via the civil courts. In civil nursing home injury lawsuits, victims may obtain financial recovery for medical bills, lost wages if applicable, and pain and suffering damages.
Pennsylvania & New Jersey Nursing Home Injury Lawyers
If you or a loved one was injured at a nursing home or other care facility, please call our office to arrange a free case review with our PA and NJ nursing home abuse/neglect lawyers. (215) 985-0777
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