Nursing homes in New York are meant to be a safe and secure haven for our elderly loved ones. Nevertheless, accidents can happen due to negligence or maintenance problems. If your loved one has been injured due to maintenance issues at a nursing home around New York, it’s important to take immediate action to ensure their well-being by seeking the appropriate legal remedies.
At Dalli & Marino, LLP, we can help people get justice for their loved ones who were injured by nursing home maintenance issues. This guide will detail some important steps to take if your loved one was injured.
Steps to Take If Your Loved One Is Injured at a Nursing Home
Taking care of our aging loved ones is imperative, especially as they age. Here are some important steps to take if your loved one was injured at a New York nursing home:
1. Prioritize Your Loved One’s Health and Safety
If you discover your loved one has been injured due to a nursing home’s maintenance issues, ensure they receive prompt medical attention. Contact their primary healthcare provider or seek emergency medical care depending on the severity of their injuries. Keep a record of all medical records, including diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care, as this will help if you need to take legal steps as well.
2. Get a Report of the Incident
Request a written report from the nursing home about the incident that led to your loved one’s injuries. Keep a copy of the same for your records. Maintaining a clear and accurate record of all communication with the nursing home throughout this process is crucial, especially if it was due to negligence or not staying up-to-date with proper maintenance needs.
3. Document Evidence
If possible, take photographs of the maintenance problem that caused the accident, such as broken handrails, loose floorboards, or faulty lighting. Note the date and time of the incident, as well as the names of staff members or witnesses present. Keep records of any conversations or correspondence related to the incident, such as emails or letters exchanged with the nursing home administration.
4. Consult With an Attorney
We highly recommend you seek legal advice from an experienced New York nursing home negligence attorney immediately after you know about the situation. A skilled attorney will assess the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s injuries, guide you through the legal process, and advocate for your rights.
5. File a Complaint with the Relevant Authorities
Consider filing a complaint with the appropriate agencies. Depending on the injury or nursing home, this could be the state health department or another relevant governing body. Provide them with all the necessary details, including documentation of the incident, your correspondence with the nursing home, and medical records. These agencies can conduct investigations and take appropriate action against the facility.
6. Consider Relocation
If you have serious concerns about the safety and well-being of your loved one in their current nursing home, it may be worth exploring other care options. Research alternative facilities that have a solid reputation for safety and quality care. Visit prospective facilities and inquire about their maintenance practices, staff training, and safety protocols. Relocating your loved one to a more reliable environment will help alleviate your concerns and ensure their ongoing safety.
7. Pursue Legal Action
If negotiations with the nursing home or their insurance company fail to reach a satisfactory resolution, your lawyer may advise you to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your loved one’s injuries. Remember that each case is unique, and the timeline and outcomes will depend on various factors, including the jurisdiction and the specifics of the incident.
Take Action to Protect Your Loved One’s Rights and Seek Compensation
Discovering that your loved one has been injured due to nursing home maintenance issues can be distressing. Therefore, it’s crucial you take immediate action to protect their rights and well-being.
Contact our experienced nursing home negligence attorneys at Dalli & Marino, LLP to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. We are dedicated to advocating for the rights of elderly individuals in New York and ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable. Schedule a consultation today by contacting us online or calling (888) 465-8790, and let us fight for the justice your loved one deserves. We also speak Spanish.
