If you placed a loved one in a long-term care facility in South Carolina, only to learn that he or she suffered physical or emotional harm, you have the right to take legal action on his or her behalf. Civil claims for nursing home abuse can be complex, but you have the right to seek help in order to ensure that you receive the appropriate amount of damages for all pain and suffering.
Validating your claim against a nursing home
When you bring a civil claim against a nursing facility, it is important to present sufficient evidence. One of the best ways to do this is to provide as much information as possible about your loved one’s situation, financial losses and injuries as a result of the abuse, including documentation proving the following:
- Medical needs
- Reasonable expenses for future medical care
- Evidence of issues caused by immobilization
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of ability to enjoy life
- Financial losses
For many nursing home residents, the impact of abuse is much more than physical. The mental anguish experienced by these individuals can be such that they are afraid to reach out for help, depressed and afraid to remain in the long-term care facility. In addition to recovery of financial losses experienced as a result of the abuse, you may also be able to seek damages related to:
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Permanent disability
- Decreased life expectancy
Securing the appropriate amount of damages for your loved one is crucial for your ability to provide care, meet medical needs and cover future expenses.
Fighting for the right amount
In some cases, nursing home abuse victims and families may receive offers of a settlement. Whether you are considering such an offer or will litigate for rightful recovery, you are entitled to an amount of money that reflects your loved one’s physical and financial needs, as well as appropriately compensates for other types of mental and emotional trauma.
The abuse and neglect of nursing home residents is unacceptable. If you believe that your loved one is a victim, you have no time to lose in seeking help and holding liable parties accountable.
