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Nursing Home Fall Injuries in Oregon: Know Your Rights and Legal Options

In Oregon, falls in nursing homes are a serious issue affecting many elderly residents. This article explores the responsibilities of nursing homes to prevent such incidents and what you can do if negligence occurs.

Nursing Home Fall Injuries in Oregon: Understanding Your Legal Rights – Pacific Injury Law Firm, Portland

Oregon injury law context

Use this article as general information to understand the issue, preserve useful records, and identify the next questions to ask an attorney about your own facts.

Published December 4, 2023

Understanding Nursing Home Fall Injuries: Your Rights in Oregon

Did you know that approximately 33% of adults over 65 experience falls each year? Sadly, many of these incidents occur in nursing homes, where residents are expected to receive attentive care. When falls happen due to negligence, the consequences can be devastating, leading to serious injuries and emotional distress for both the victims and their families.

At Pacific Injury Law Firm, we understand the trust families place in these facilities. When that trust is broken, it is critical to recognize that nursing homes have a legal duty to provide safe environments for their residents. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a fall in a nursing home, we are here to help you navigate your legal options.

The Duty to Identify Fall Risks

Nursing homes are required to assess residents for fall risks diligently. This includes:

  • Regular evaluations of each resident's mobility and health status
  • Implementing care plans that address identified risks
  • Ensuring that residents who are at risk for falls receive assistance when moving about the facility

When nursing home staff fails to identify or address these risks, and a resident who is at risk suffers a fall, it may be considered negligence. For instance, if a resident attempts to get out of bed unassisted and falls, resulting in a fracture, the nursing home may be held liable for not providing appropriate supervision and assistance.

Importance of Proper Safety Equipment

Another critical aspect of preventing falls in nursing homes is the availability of safety equipment. Essential safety measures include:

  • Handrails in hallways and bathrooms to provide support
  • Non-slip mats in showers and common areas
  • Bed rails to prevent residents from inadvertently getting out of bed unassisted
  • Call buttons within easy reach for residents to alert staff when assistance is needed

When nursing homes neglect to provide this equipment, they increase the risk of falls, which can lead to severe injuries such as broken bones or head trauma. It is the facility's responsibility to ensure that residents have access to the necessary tools to remain safe.

Holding Nursing Homes Accountable

At Pacific Injury Law Firm, we take nursing home negligence seriously. We believe that facilities must be held accountable for their actions, especially when they compromise the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals.

If your loved one has suffered injuries due to a fall in a nursing home, it is crucial to seek legal assistance. Our experienced attorneys understand Oregon's personal injury laws and can guide you through the process of seeking compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. Remember, you do not have to face this challenge alone.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

Don't allow a nursing home to evade responsibility for its negligence. At Pacific Injury Law Firm, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and help you understand your rights. Our team is committed to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

To speak with our skilled attorneys, call us at 971-277-3811 today. Together, we can work towards holding negligent facilities accountable and protecting the rights of injured residents across Oregon.

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Insurance calls, medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty tend to arrive at the same time. The first job is to steady the situation: understand the facts, preserve useful records, and talk through the legal options that fit your Oregon injury claim.

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