When you or a loved one enters a nursing home facility, you expect that they will receive the highest level of care possible. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Nursing home abuse and neglect can occur, causing serious injuries or even death. It is heartbreaking to see our loved ones suffer as a result of someone else’s negligence. In this blog post, we will be exploring the monetary damages that victims of nursing home abuse can obtain in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
1) Medical Expenses: Victims of nursing home abuse can incur significant medical expenses as a result of their injuries. These expenses may include hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. It is important to seek medical attention immediately after the abuse is discovered so that a record of the injuries can be made. The victim can then seek compensation for their medical expenses as part of their damages.
2) Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional pain and suffering are entitled to compensation as well. The victim can claim damages for the harm caused to their physical and emotional well-being as a result of the abuse. This can include psychological distress, anxiety, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and any other emotional harm. These damages are often difficult to quantify, but an experienced nursing home abuse attorney can help in determining the appropriate amount of compensation.
3) Punitive Damages: If the nursing home staff acted with extreme recklessness or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded in addition to compensatory damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant for their actions and to deter similar actions in the future. These damages are often awarded in cases where the abuse was particularly heinous or involved intentional harm.
4) Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one dies as a result of nursing home abuse, the surviving family members can seek damages for their loss. These damages may include compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost wages, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
5) Attorneys’ Fees and Costs: Victims of nursing home abuse may be entitled to reimbursement for attorneys’ fees and costs associated with their case. This can include expert witness fees, court fees, and other costs incurred during the litigation process. Some attorneys may work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if the victim wins their case.
Nursing home abuse and neglect can be a devastating experience for victims and their families. Victims have the right to seek compensation for the harm caused by the nursing home staff. It is important to hire an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to help navigate the legal process and to obtain the monetary damages that victims are entitled to. If you or a loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse in Pennsylvania, do not hesitate to seek legal help. Act fast and get the help you deserve.