A nursing home abuse attorney knows that the physical and emotional abuse of older Americans in residential facilities is an epidemic that largely goes unrecognized. In fact, more than 30 percent of nursing homes inflict some form of abuse on their patients. Some studies show that more than 40 incidents of aggression can take place during a caretaker’s single shift.
Too often, the abuse goes unreported by a victim due to fear of reprisal or other consequences. Abuse should never be ignored or tolerated and a nursing home abuse attorney can help give a voice to those who may be silenced by the damage done by abuse.
Below is more information that will help you determine if you or someone you love could benefit by using a nursing home abuse attorney.
Do I Need a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney?
Do I need the services of a nursing home abuse attorney? There are some questions you can ask yourself, a friend or a family member if you are considering hiring a nursing home abuse attorney:
- Were basic human rights as a resident violated?
- Were all measures to avoid a potential accident or incident taken?
- Did a caretaker knowingly display negligence?
- Did the actions of a caretaker inflict physical or emotional damage?
- Is the level of care being received meeting basic needs?
- Is everything being done to ensure safety, security, comfort and well-being?
- Are the best interests of patients being considered at all times?
If you answered yes to any of those questions, a nursing home abuse attorney will be happy to help you and pursue a case. If you are unsure, a nursing home abuse attorney can provide a free consultation to determine if there is sufficient evidence to pursue litigation.
Why Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney?
Do I really need to hire a nursing home abuse attorney? While it is possible to attempt to file a claim or a suit on your own, hiring a nursing home abuse attorney who specializes in the area will help you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
The fact is nursing homes are protected by their own lawyers who will attempt to get you to take a settlement offer that can potentially be far less than what you should receive. The nursing homes will also want to get the matter resolved as soon as possible in order to avoid any bad publicity.
In addition to the financial benefits that will come with hiring a nursing home abuse attorney, they will also shine a spotlight on the facility so that the abuse can stop and other residents are protected in the future.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of abuse in a nursing home, contact the proper local and state authorities. Removing yourself from a dangerous situation and alerting the proper organizations of the abusive person or persons should be the top priority. Once safety is ensured, contacting a licensed nursing home abuse attorney should be your next step.