Chicago Nursing Home Physical Abuse Lawyer

Recovering Compensation for Victims of Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes

If your loved one has suffered physical abuse in a nursing home, it is crucial to take immediate action. Nursing home residents are entitled to care and dignity and should be free from harm. 

Unfortunately, mistreatment in assisted living centers is more common than many may think. A lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of holding abusive caregivers and negligent nursing homes accountable.

Our Successful Nursing Home Abuse Settlements

When families face the devastating effects of nursing home abuse, successful legal settlements can bring some measure of justice. 

These settlements provide compensation for the victims and their families while holding facilities and staff accountable for their actions. 

Here are some examples of settlements that demonstrate accountability and the pursuit of justice:

• $1,500,000 Physical Abuse Lawsuit – This settlement was awarded in a case where residents suffered physical abuse at the hands of other residents, and the facility failed to intervene and provide adequate supervision.
• $810,000 Senior Care Sexual Assault Settlement – A dementia patient was sexually assaulted by a maintenance worker in a nursing facility
• $2,333,000 Settlement for Sexual Assault – Two women were sexually assaulted by a CNA at an assisted living facility.

These settlements show the importance of seeking legal action to bring nursing facilities to justice for the harm caused to vulnerable residents.

If your loved one has been affected by abuse or neglect, we are here to help. Contact our team for a free consultation, and we can guide you through the legal process, making certain your loved one’s rights are protected.

What Constitutes Physical Abuse in Chicago Nursing Homes?

Physical abuse involves intentional or negligent actions by nursing home staff that result in harm to residents. This can include acts such as hitting, slapping, or kicking, which are clear signs of elder abuse. 

Additionally, improper use of physical restraints or rough handling during transfers or medical procedures may also qualify as physical abuse, leaving residents vulnerable to injuries.

Unexplained injuries, like broken bones, bruises, or cuts, often indicate excessive force and may be linked to physical abuse or neglect. Pressure ulcers (commonly known as bedsores) can also result from neglect and may signal a failure to provide adequate care, such as failing to reposition immobile residents. 

Another form of abuse is forcefully administering medication or withholding it as a form of punishment, contributing to medication errors. These actions not only harm the physical well-being of the residents but also violate their rights to receive proper and respectful care.

If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to act swiftly to protect your loved one and seek legal recourse in the event of physical abuse.

Warning Signs of Physical Abuse in Nursing Home Residents

Many families are unaware of the warning signs of physical abuse. Some common indicators include sudden weight loss, unexplained bruises, or frequent falls. 

Residents may also exhibit behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety, fear, or withdrawal from social activities. 

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to take them seriously and seek immediate help.

How Nursing Homes in Chicago Try to Conceal Abuse

Unfortunately, some care homes attempt to conceal instances of physical abuse. Common tactics include blaming the injuries on falls or medical conditions or failing to document the incidents properly. 

In some cases, staff members may discourage relatives from asking questions or intimidate residents into silence. 

If you suspect mistreatment, do not accept vague explanations and continue investigating the situation to protect your loved one.

Legal Rights of Family Members Under Illinois Law

In Illinois, several laws protect the rights of elderly individuals living in homes from mistreatment, abuse, and personal injury.

The Illinois Nursing Home Care Act provides a strong legal framework to make certain that residents are entitled to live in a safe, healthy, and dignified environment free from harm. 

The law states that individuals living in care homes have the right to be treated with respect and to be free from harmful treatment, including mistreatment by staff members or other residents.

People who suspect their loved ones have been subjected to neglect cases or personal injury due to the actions of nursing home staff have the legal right to take action. 

This includes filing complaints with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), which is responsible for investigating allegations of mistreatment. 

Families can demand a thorough investigation by the IDPH, which can lead to penalties or corrective actions against the facility, including a change in staffing or operations.

Moreover, Illinois law allows for personal injury claims to be filed against senior living facilities for damages resulting from neglect or physical assault. Families can seek compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needed as a result of the malpractice.

In addition to state law, federal protections under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987 require caregiving facilities to comply with strict standards to prevent elder abuse. 

These regulations make sure that care facilities are adequately staffed, trained, and equipped to prevent injuries. 

Facilities that fail to comply with these federal standards can face significant consequences, including loss of funding or licenses. Families have the right to report any violations of these federal regulations as well.

These laws are essential for protecting vulnerable individuals in assisted living facilities and giving them the care they deserve. 

If you suspect that a loved one has been harmed due to abuse and neglect, it is important to consult with a skilled personal injury attorney who can help navigate the complex legal process and fight for the justice your family member deserves.

Attorney fees in these cases are typically contingent on the outcome, meaning families don’t have to pay upfront fees but only pay if they win their case.

How a Nursing Home Physical Abuse Lawyer Can Help

A personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in investigating the cause of abuse and gathering the necessary evidence to support your case. This may include medical records, eyewitness testimony, and expert opinions that confirm the abuse or neglect. 

The lawyer can also work to hold the facility and staff accountable for their actions, either through settlement negotiations or a trial, getting your loved one to receive the compensation they deserve.

Free Consultation with a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

If your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in a nursing facility, it’s essential to take immediate action. Reach out to our Chicago nursing home abuse attorneys for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. 

Our team is here to answer your questions about personal injury and make certain your loved one’s rights are protected. Call (800) 926-7565 or fill out our online form.