Nursing Home and Assisted-Living Facility Slip and Fall Accidents
Unfortunately, slip and fall accidents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities are all too common. These types of accidents can lead to severe injuries and even death, particularly among elderly residents who may have preexisting medical conditions that make them more vulnerable to trauma.
Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are legally obligated to provide a safe environment for their residents. This duty includes ensuring the premises are free of hazards that could cause accidents. Unfortunately, some facilities fail to meet this duty and neglect their responsibility to maintain a safe living environment.
As a result, it is crucial for families of loved ones living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities to be aware of the risks associated with slip and fall accidents and to take steps to help prevent them. It is also essential for facilities to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of their residents and to respond promptly and appropriately when accidents do occur.
Reasons for Slip and Fall Accidents in Nursing Homes
There are several reasons for slip and fall accidents in nursing homes. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Environmental hazards: These may include wet floors, uneven surfaces, cluttered hallways, poorly maintained flooring, and inadequate lighting.
- Medication side effects: Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and balance problems, increasing the risk of slip and fall accidents.
- Mobility issues: Residents with mobility issues or who use walking aids, such as canes or walkers, may be more susceptible to slip and fall accidents.
- Cognitive impairments: Residents with cognitive impairments, such as dementia, may be at a higher risk of accidents due to confusion and disorientation.
- Lack of staff supervision: Nursing homes without adequate staffing levels or supervision may be at a higher risk for slip and fall accidents.
- Inadequate training: Staff members who are not properly trained to identify and address fall risks may contribute to the occurrence of slip and fall accidents.
- Poor resident assessment: Nursing homes that fail to properly assess and address the individual fall risk of each resident may contribute to slip and fall accidents.
Can You File a Personal Injury Lawsuit Against a Nursing Home for a Slip and Fall Injury?
Yes, it is possible to file a personal injury lawsuit against a nursing home for a slip and fall injury. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are legally obligated to provide a safe living environment for their residents. This includes taking reasonable steps to prevent slip and fall accidents.
Suppose a resident is injured in an accident due to the nursing home’s negligence. In that case, the resident or their family may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the nursing home. To establish a personal injury claim, the resident or their family will need to prove the following elements:
- The nursing home had a duty to provide a safe living environment for the resident.
- The nursing home breached that duty by failing to take reasonable steps to prevent slip and fall accidents.
- The resident was injured due to the nursing home’s breach of duty.
- The resident’s injury resulted in damages, such as medical expenses and pain and suffering.
To prove these elements, the resident or their family may need to provide evidence of the nursing home’s negligence, such as witness testimony, medical records, and safety inspection reports.
It is important to note that filing a personal injury lawsuit against a nursing home can be complex, and it is advisable to consult an attorney with experience with nursing home negligence cases. An attorney can help evaluate the strength of the case, gather evidence, and navigate the legal process.
Roeser Law Firm
If a loved one is injured in an accident while a resident of a nursing home or assisted living facility, call the Roeser Law Firm for help. We have helped numerous clients obtain the justice and compensation they deserve. We can be reached at (202) 660-4070 or contact us online.
