Are Mission Viejo and Anaheim nursing homes liable when a patient is injured in a fall? A recent study by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports the risks of falling increase as we age, and between 50% and 75% of these falls occur in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility. Nationally, these facilities average between 2 and 3 falls per bed per year. Who is responsible and liable for nursing home falls which result in injuries to our beloved family members?
Many Anaheim nursing homes and facilities across the Orange County work diligently to prevent patient falls. Not every patient fall or injury is the fault of the provider. Unfortunately, in many cases the nursing home or skilled nursing facility is absolutely responsible for the fall and liable for the medical expenses and other compensation based upon those injuries.
The nursing home may responsible due to neglect and the failure to make a detailed plan for each patient and take steps to protect any patient who is a known fall risk. Challenges such as beds which are too high or the design of a patient’s room, as well as poor lighting, slippery floors and other conditions in the facility contribute to the risk of a fall and injury.
Even if the facility was not responsible for the fall they may be liable for the care and follow through which happens after a fall and injury. Did the facility seek or provide immediate medical care and treatment? Did they develop a documented plan to assist in recovery and ongoing care? Have they complied with federal and California standards of care including proper care techniques, access to call buttons or the implementation of care alarms?
Are Mission Viejo and Anaheim nursing homes liable when a patient is injured in a fall? We invite you to review the recommendations of our clients and the legal industry and contact the Law Firm of Rivers Morrell or call 949-305-1400 for a free consultation. Ask to speak with Rivers personally to discuss what has happened and how to protect you and your loved one’s rights.
