No one deserves to suffer abuse or neglect in a nursing home, yet too many vulnerable residents experience mistreatment at the hands of those entrusted with their care. Your Charlotte nursing home abuse lawyer is ready to fight for justice and hold negligent facilities accountable.
Your Charlotte personal injury lawyer with Shane Smith Law has 100+ years of combined experience and is committed to protecting your loved one’s rights. Contact us today to find out more about how you can demand accountability and total compensation.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Many nursing home residents are unable to report abuse, making it essential for family members to recognize warning signs. Physical injuries, sudden mood changes, and unexplained financial issues can all indicate mistreatment. If you suspect that your loved one is suffering in a long-term care facility, understanding the signs of abuse can help you take action.
Physical and Emotional Abuse in Nursing Homes
Physical abuse can leave clear warning signs, including bruises, fractures, or burns. Unexplained injuries or repeated trips to the hospital may indicate that a resident is being harmed.
Emotional abuse can be harder to detect, but sudden mood changes, fear of caregivers, and withdrawal from social activities can signal mistreatment.
Under North Carolina General Statutes § 131D-21, nursing home residents have the right to be free from physical and mental abuse. If a caregiver, staff member, or another resident causes harm, they may be held responsible. If you notice behavioral changes or physical injuries, further investigation may be necessary to protect your loved one.
Neglect and Malnutrition in Nursing Homes
Nursing home neglect is often the result of understaffing, improper training, or poor facility management. Residents who do not receive proper care may suffer from dehydration, bedsores, or sudden weight loss. Failing to provide necessary hygiene assistance, medication, or mobility support can also indicate neglect.
Financial Exploitation of Elderly Residents
Financial abuse is another serious issue in nursing homes. Residents with cognitive impairments or limited financial oversight are often targeted for fraud, theft, or coercion. Signs of financial exploitation include missing personal belongings, unauthorized account withdrawals, or sudden changes to wills or power of attorney documents.
For a free legal consultation with a nursing home abuse lawyer serving Charlotte, call 980-246-2656
Legal Protections for Nursing Home Residents in North Carolina
Federal and state laws establish safety standards for nursing homes and protect residents from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. If a facility violates these rights, legal action may be taken to hold them accountable.
North Carolina’s Nursing Home Bill of Rights
Under North Carolina General Statutes § 131E-117, nursing home residents have the right to quality care, dignity, and protection from abuse. These rights include access to medical treatment, freedom from restraints, and the ability to communicate freely with family members.
If a nursing home violates these rights, legal action may be taken to ensure that residents receive the care they deserve. Your Charlotte nursing home abuse attorney from Shane Smith Law can help determine whether a facility has failed to meet legal standards and pursue justice on behalf of your loved one.
Federal Protections Under the Nursing Home Reform Act
The 1987 Nursing Home Reform Act sets national care standards for facilities receiving Medicare and Medicaid funding. This law requires nursing homes to provide adequate medical care, hygiene, and protection from abuse. If a facility fails to meet these requirements, it may lose federal funding or face legal consequences.
Nursing home residents are protected under both state and federal laws, which guarantee:
- The right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation
- Access to proper medical care and treatment
- The right to privacy and personal dignity
- Protection from unnecessary restraints
- Access to family visitation and communication
- The ability to report abuse without retaliation
- The right to participate in decisions about care and treatment
Charlotte Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Near Me 980-246-2656
When Nursing Home Abuse Leads to Serious or Fatal Injuries
Nursing home residents are among the most vulnerable individuals, relying on caregivers for basic needs, medical attention, and safety. When abuse or neglect occurs, the consequences can be devastating, leading to catastrophic injuries or even wrongful death. If your loved one suffered serious harm in a nursing home, understanding the severity of these injuries can help you take legal action.
Catastrophic Injuries in Nursing Home Abuse Cases
Severe injuries in nursing homes often result from physical abuse, neglect, or lack of proper medical care. Falls are one of the most common causes of catastrophic injuries, leading to broken hips, fractures, and head trauma. Bedsores left untreated can develop into life-threatening infections, and physical assaults can result in brain injuries or internal bleeding.
Medical evidence plays a critical role in proving neglect or abuse. Hospital records, expert medical opinions, and witness statements can help establish that a facility failed to provide proper care.
If your loved one suffered severe injuries due to neglect or mistreatment, your Charlotte catastrophic injury lawyer can help hold the nursing home accountable.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits After Nursing Home Abuse
If nursing home abuse or neglect leads to a resident’s death, their family may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and the pain and suffering endured by the victim before their passing. Holding negligent facilities accountable can also help prevent similar tragedies from happening to others.
Under North Carolina General Statutes § 28A-18-2, wrongful death claims allow families to recover damages for financial losses and emotional distress caused by a loved one’s death.
Your Charlotte wrongful death lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you have the support and resources needed to seek justice for your family.
Holding Negligent Nursing Homes Accountable
When a nursing home fails to provide safe and adequate care, legal action can help force change. A successful lawsuit can lead to penalties against the facility, the revocation of operating licenses, and compensation for the victim’s suffering. These legal actions not only provide justice but can also protect future residents from harm.
Click to contact our Charlotte Personal Injury Lawyers today
Demand Justice With Help From Your Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Charlotte
Nursing home abuse can leave your loved one with serious injuries and emotional trauma, but you have the power to take action. Your nursing home abuse attorney in Charlotte with Shane Smith Law will work tirelessly to secure compensation and demand accountability from those responsible.
Fill out our contact form or call today to get the legal help your family needs.
Call or text 980-246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
