When you move your loved one into a nursing home, you expect them to be well cared for. If they end up passing away due to neglect or malicious actions, then those parties who caused your loved one harm need to be held accountable. A San Angelo, Texas wrongful death lawyer from our firm can help you and your family in this difficult time. We are ready to help you fight for the compensation that you deserve.
What Are Common Causes of Death for Nursing Home Residents?
There are all sorts of potential hazards and negligent behaviors that can endanger nursing home residents. Whether the staff is not watching over residents closely enough or actually guilty of abuse, they need to be held accountable when someone gets hurt. Some common causes of wrongful death in such facilities include:
- Medication errors
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Injuries from falls
- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Neglect
- Physical abuse, from staff or another resident
Who Can Be Sued When a Nursing Home Resident Dies?
There are often a few liable parties in wrongful death cases like this. The nursing home staff are often the direct cause of a resident’s untimely passing, but this culture of negligence and lack of care can essentially be encouraged by administrators or even the owners of the facility. If you can show that there is a pattern of neglect and an issue with how the facility itself is run, then there may be multiple people to sue for damages after the death of your loved one.
Who Can Sue For Wrongful Death?
Not just any relative can sue for wrongful death damages and only one suit can be filed on behalf of the deceased. In nursing home abuse cases, the person who would get first priority would be the spouse of the deceased. If they are no longer living, the children can sue. If no one brings a wrongful death claim forward within three months, the personal representative of the decedent’s estate, the executor, can sue for damages.
What Kinds of Damages Can Families Win?
If you sue a nursing home for wrongful death damages, your compensation should be calculated with the following in mind:
- Your loved one’s medical costs
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of guidance and companionship
- Pain and suffering of your family members
Do Nursing Home Cases Like This Go to Trial?
They can, but many cases like this settle before they have to go to court. If you are worried about having to try your case in court, we understand how that can be stressful. Your lawyer is ready to back you up though. We can help you build a compelling case that can succeed in front of a judge and jury.
Talk to a Wrongful Death Attorney
If your relative passed away before their time, we may be able to help. Contact the Mathis Law Firm and ask us about our free case consultations. We are ready to tell you more about your legal options.
