Caring for an aging loved one should never lead to worry about their safety. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is a reality that too many families in Dundalk, MD, face. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or financial abuse, these injustices can occur in facilities trusted to provide care. If you suspect your loved one has suffered harm at a local nursing home, we can help.
At Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers, our Dundalk personal injury lawyers understand the pain and frustration families experience when nursing home abuse happens. The legal system offers options for holding negligent facilities accountable, and we are here to pursue justice for your family.
Protect your loved one’s rights and well-being. Call us today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss how we can take your family From Hurt to Help®.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse in Dundalk
It can be difficult to recognize nursing home abuse, especially if your loved one cannot communicate their experiences clearly. However, certain signs may indicate mistreatment or neglect. As family members, it’s important to stay vigilant and know what to look for. Here are some common signs of abuse that should not be ignored:
Physical Signs of Abuse
Physical abuse may leave visible marks or affect your loved one’s health. Watch for the following signs that could indicate mistreatment:
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or broken bones
- Marks from restraints or pressure sores
- Sudden weight loss or signs of malnutrition
- Poor hygiene, including soiled clothing or bedding
Emotional and Behavioral Signs
Abuse doesn’t always leave physical evidence but can show up in your loved one’s emotional state. Be aware of changes in their behavior, such as:
- Sudden withdrawal from social activities or isolation
- Unexplained anxiety, depression, or fearfulness around certain staff members
- Changes in mood, such as agitation or anger
- Refusal to speak about their care or avoid certain topics
Financial Exploitation
Nursing home residents can also be targets for financial abuse. Some warning signs include:
- Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts
- Missing personal belongings or property
- Changes in wills or other legal documents
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers to discuss your concerns and how we can help during a free case consultation. Adam Fights for the families of abused nursing home residents. We will get you in touch with any of our top-tier medical providers in our network and keep you up to date on your case via a special text number we provide.
Contact Us Today And Take The First Step Towards Justice In Your Case! Call (410)777-8960
Filing Your Nursing Home Abuse Claim for Damages in Dundalk
To seek compensation for nursing home abuse, the process involves several key steps to ensure all evidence is gathered and the appropriate legal actions are taken. Here is an overview of the steps you can expect:
Document the Nursing Home Abuse
You should start by gathering any evidence that you can that supports your claim, such as:
- Photographs of injuries
- Medical records
- Witness accounts
Our personal injury attorneys can assist with evidence collection.
Report the Abuse to the Proper Authorities
Your next step should be to report the incident to the nursing home administration and file an official complaint with state agencies like the Maryland Department of Health or Adult Protective Services. These agencies will investigate the event and create an official report. Their investigation may also uncover additional violations, all of which will go toward strengthening your claim for compensation.
Speak With Our Legal Team
During your free consultation, you can discuss the situation with our legal team and explore your legal options. This would be the time to learn how we will handle your case. We will answer any questions you may have and resolve any of your concerns.
Independent Investigation by Our Team
Once you hire us, our nursing home abuse attorneys will investigate the nursing home abuse. Our law firm will gather what evidence you have collected on your own, plus any additional evidence we discover, such as personal logs and complaints against the facility. We will also speak with medical professionals about your case to strengthen your claim.
File a Personal Injury Claim With All Liable Insurers
We will identify all the liable parties to your loved one’s abuse and injuries. We will handle all the necessary paperwork and file claims with every insurance company, seeking compensation for such damages as:
- Medical expenses, including medications
- Lost income while you care for your loved one
- Transportation costs for moving your loved one
- Pain and suffering
We will compile a full list of damages to your case and pursue the fair compensation you and your loved one deserve.
Negotiate or Go to Trial
If we cannot reach a fair settlement with the insurance companies, you can count on us to fight back. We will proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome of your case.
Dundalk Nursing Home Abuse Attorney (410)777-8960
You Have a Three-Year Deadline on Your Nursing Home Abuse Case
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a nursing home abuse claim places a time limit on when you can take legal action. Under Md. Cts. & Jud. Proc. Code § 5-101, you generally have three years from the date the abuse was discovered—or reasonably should have been discovered—to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If you wait too long, you may lose the right to seek compensation for your loved one’s injuries through the courts.
It’s important to act quickly because gathering evidence, investigating the abuse, and building a case can take time. In some instances, nursing home abuse may go unnoticed for a while, but as soon as you recognize signs of mistreatment, it’s crucial to consult an attorney to ensure your case is filed within the legal time frame.
Failing to file within the statute of limitations may prevent you from holding the responsible parties accountable for the harm caused.
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Protect Your Loved One and Call Us Today
If your family has been affected by nursing home abuse in Dundalk, Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers is here to help. We will guide you through the legal process, investigate the abuse, and work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Your loved one deserves justice and protection.
Call us today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss how we can help you seek the compensation and peace of mind your family needs.
Call or text (410)777-8960 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form