Choosing to place a loved one in a nursing home is an incredibly difficult decision. You trust the facility to provide a safe environment and meet their medical needs. Unfortunately, the reality is that at least one in ten people over the age of 60 in nursing homes or assisted living facilities suffer from abuse.
If your loved one has been affected, an Oakland nursing home abuse lawyer can help hold those responsible accountable. At Arias Sanguinetti, we are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring that your family member’s rights are upheld.
With over $1.5 billion recovered for our clients, we have the experience to tackle even the toughest cases. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or financial abuse, an Oakland personal injury lawyer from our firm will work to secure the justice your loved one deserves.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse in Oakland
Several types of abuse may occur in nursing homes, each with its own warning signs. Here are some common forms of abuse and what to look out for:
Emotional abuse: This type of abuse involves actions that cause fear, anxiety, or sadness. For example, a caregiver may belittle a resident or intentionally isolate them from others, leading to emotional distress.
Physical abuse: Physical abuse includes unexplained injuries like bruises, cuts, or fractures. Residents may also show signs of being restrained, like marks on wrists or bedsores from prolonged immobility.
Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse can include unexplained infections, STDs, or physical signs like vaginal or anal bleeding. Torn or bloody clothing can also be a sign.
Financial abuse: Financial abuse occurs when a caregiver exploits the resident’s money. This can include large withdrawals from bank accounts, sudden changes in financial documents, or possessions going missing.
Neglect: Neglect happens when a resident’s basic needs are not met, such as poor hygiene, extreme weight loss, or untreated pressure sores. Residents may also be denied visits or medical care.
If you suspect any of these signs in a loved one, it’s essential to act quickly and seek help from an Oakland nursing home abuse attorney to protect their rights.
Nursing Home Abuse Laws in California
In Oakland, California, nursing homes must adhere to strict regulations to ensure residents’ safety and well-being. These guidelines, outlined in Title 22, dictate how nursing homes should care for their residents. Notable requirements include:
- Providing nutritious food and proper meals.
- Making sure personal care needs are met.
- Offering access to appropriate medical and dental care.
- Monitoring and supervising residents to maintain safety.
- Providing planned activities to engage residents.
- Maintaining secure and safe living accommodations.
If a nursing home fails to meet these standards or there are signs of abuse or neglect, it’s important to act quickly. Our experienced nursing home abuse lawyers in Oakland understand Title 22 regulations and are here to protect your loved one’s rights and seek justice.
California’s Treble Damages Laws
Under California law, victims of nursing home abuse may be entitled to “treble damages” in certain cases. This law allows for three times the actual damages if the abuse was particularly malicious or done with intent. Treble damages are meant to serve as a deterrent to prevent further abuse and encourage accountability within nursing homes.
If you believe your loved one’s abuse may qualify for treble damages, our team can help investigate and ensure that all available avenues for compensation are explored.
Oakland Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Near Me 310-844-9696
What Will an Oakland Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Do to Help Your Case?
When you suspect something isn’t right with your loved one’s care in a nursing home, it can be hard to know where to turn.
An Oakland nursing home abuse lawyer is here to help lift that burden from you, taking care of the details so you can put your energy where it matters most: your loved one’s well-being. Here’s how we can help:
- Collecting important evidence, such as video footage, nursing home records, safety violation history, medical records, and eyewitness accounts.
- Assessing the total damages, including medical expenses, pain, and emotional suffering caused by the abuse.
- Working with insurance companies and defense teams to secure the compensation your loved one needs.
- Taking the case to trial if the responsible party refuses to offer a fair settlement.
We are here to ensure that your loved one’s voice is heard, protect their rights, and pursue the justice they need to heal.
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Is There a Time Frame to File a Nursing Home Abuse Case in California?
In general, lawsuits for nursing home abuse in Oakland must be filed within two years of the resident’s injuries or wrongful death. This time frame begins when the injury occurs or is discovered.
There are exceptions to this rule. For example, if the resident was legally incompetent and unable to report the abuse, the time frame may be extended.
In addition, if a government agency operates the nursing home, the time to file a California government claim is only six months. It’s important to consult with a nursing home abuse attorney to understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case.
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How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Oakland, California
If you suspect nursing home abuse in Oakland, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your loved one. Here are the steps to report abuse and ensure the safety of your family member:
- Call 911 if there is immediate danger or a medical emergency. This will ensure that your loved one is safe from harm immediately.
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH): Report abuse or neglect to the CDPH’s Licensing and Certification Program by calling their toll-free complaint hotline at 1-800-236-9747 or by visiting the CDPH Nursing Home Complaint Form.
- Ombudsman Services of Alameda County: The local ombudsman is dedicated to investigating complaints and advocating for residents. You can reach them at 510-638-6878 or submit a complaint online at Ombudsman Services.
- Adult Protective Services (APS): If the abuse involves an elderly resident, you can contact APS at 866-225-5277 for assistance in investigation and intervention.
- Contact a lawyer: An Oakland nursing home abuse attorney can guide you through the legal process and help make sure the right actions are taken to protect your loved one’s rights.
It’s important to act as soon as you notice signs of abuse. Reporting promptly can help prevent further harm and ensure your loved one receives the protection and care they deserve.
Get the Justice Your Loved One Deserves Today
If you suspect nursing home abuse, it’s important to take action right away to protect your loved one. An Oakland nursing home abuse lawyer from Arias Sanguinetti can help you move forward with confidence, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
With over 300 years of combined experience, our team knows how to handle these cases. We’ll investigate thoroughly, gather the evidence, and work to secure the justice your loved one deserves. Whether it requires negotiating a fair settlement or taking the case to court, we’re committed to standing up for you.
Your loved one’s safety is crucial, and we’re here to support you throughout this process. Please reach out for a free consultation, and let us help you get the resolution you need.
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