Nursing Home Negligence Attorneys in Buffalo

Nursing home negligence refers to a failure on the part of a nursing home or long-term care facility to provide the proper standard of care to a resident, resulting in harm or injury.  This can include issues such as neglect, abuse, inadequate staffing, or failure to provide necessary medical care.  Neglect can manifest in many ways, for example, failure to provide adequate nutrition, hydration, hygiene, or medical attention, or failure to protect residents from accidents.  Negligence can also occur when a nursing home staff member or caregiver mistreats a resident, such as through physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.  If you suspect that a loved one has been a victim of nursing home negligence, it is important to speak with an attorney who can investigate the matter and help protect the rights of the affected resident.

What Injuries Do People in Nursing Homes Experience?

People living in nursing homes may be at risk for a variety of injuries due to a variety of factors, including:

1. Falls: Many older adults in nursing homes are at risk of falling due to mobility issues, poor vision, and other health conditions.  Falls can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, and internal bleeding.
2. Pressure ulcers:  Also known as bedsores, pressure ulcers are injuries caused by prolonged pressure on the skin.  People who are immobile or bedridden are at an increased risk of developing pressure ulcers.
3. Medication errors:  Nursing home residents may be at risk of medication errors due to improper dosing, wrong medication, or a lack of monitoring for side effects.
4. Malnutrition and dehydration:  Nursing home residents may not receive the proper nutrition and hydration they need, which can lead to serious health complications.
5. Physical and sexual abuse:  Sadly, some nursing home residents may be at risk of abuse by staff members or other residents.
6. Neglect:  Neglect can include not providing adequate care, not providing enough staff to meet residents’ needs, and not ensuring that residents are safe and comfortable.

These injuries can occur in any type of long-term care setting, not only nursing homes.  It is important that long term care facilities have a good reputation, is properly staffed, and have proper protocols in place to prevent injuries and mistreatment.

Should I Make a Report if a Loved One Is Hurt in a Nursing Home?

You can make a complaint about a nursing home in New York. There are several ways to do so, including:

1. Contacting the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH): The NYSDOH is responsible for licensing and regulating nursing homes in the state. You can file a complaint with the department by calling their toll-free complaint hotline or by filling out an online complaint form on their website.
2. Contacting the New York State Office of the Attorney General (OAG): The OAG investigates and takes action against nursing homes that are suspected of abuse or neglect.  You can file a complaint with the office by calling their toll-free hotline or by filling out an online complaint form on their website.
3. Contacting the New York State Long-Term Care Ombudsman: The Long-Term Care Ombudsman is responsible for protecting the rights and welfare of nursing home residents. You can file a complaint with the ombudsman by calling their toll-free hotline or by filling out an online complaint form on their website.
4. Contacting the local Department of Social Services: Many counties in New York have a local Department of Social Services that can investigate complaints about nursing homes.
5. Contacting the local police department:  It’s important to note that in case of an emergency such as abuse, neglect or mistreatment, you should contact the local police department immediately.

It’s always a good idea to keep records of any complaints you file and to follow up with the agency to ensure that your complaint is being investigated and that appropriate action is taken.

Who Can I Sue if a Family Member Is Injured in a Nursing Home?

In New York, a nursing home negligence lawsuit can be filed against a nursing home or long-term care facility if the staff or management is found to have acted negligently or failed to provide the proper standard of care to a resident, resulting in harm or injury. This can include issues such as neglect, abuse, inadequate staffing, or failure to provide necessary medical care.

Should I Contact a Lawyer if Someone I Love Is Injured in a Nursing Home?

Yes.  There are important and complex issues that need to be evaluated related to how the injury happened, who may be at fault, and what deadlines exist to bring a claim.  If you believe that a loved one has been a victim of nursing home negligence in New York, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can review the specific details of your case and advise you on your legal options.

The personal injury attorneys at The Coppola Firm have decades of experience representing people who have been injured. We are conveniently located in suburban Amherst, New York, with a ground floor office, close, free parking, and easy office access.  Our lawyers will come to meet you at your home, office, or hospital, or via call or videoconference to minimize your need to travel, if you like.  The lawyers at The Coppola Firm represent people in across the State of New York. Contact us today at 716-839-9700 or fill out our contact form for a case evaluation.