Philadelphia Nursing Home Wrongful Death Lawyer

The decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is often made with the expectation that they will receive proper care and support. Unfortunately, negligence, abuse, and inadequate medical attention can lead to tragic consequences, including wrongful death.

What Is Nursing Home Wrongful Death?

A wrongful death in a nursing home occurs when a resident dies due to neglect, abuse, or medical malpractice caused by the facility or its staff. These deaths are often preventable and result from inadequate care, lack of supervision, or intentional harm. Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to seek compensation for their loss and hold responsible parties accountable.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Nursing Homes

Wrongful death in nursing homes can occur due to various forms of neglect or misconduct, including:

• Medical neglect: Failing to provide necessary medical care, misdiagnosing conditions, or administering incorrect medication.
• Malnutrition and dehydration: Inadequate nutrition and hydration can lead to severe health complications and fatalities.
• Falls and injuries: Lack of supervision, improper safety measures, and failure to assist residents with mobility issues can result in fatal falls.
• Bedsores and infections: Untreated pressure ulcers and infections, such as sepsis, can become life-threatening.
• Physical abuse: Mistreatment by staff members or other residents, including hitting, pushing, or restraint-related injuries.
• Medication errors: Overmedication, under-medication, or administering the wrong drugs can have deadly consequences.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In Philadelphia, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate, typically appointed in their will or by the court. While the claim is filed on behalf of the estate, compensation is distributed to the deceased’s eligible family members, including the spouse, children, or parents. If there are no surviving spouses, children, or parents, other beneficiaries may be entitled to compensation.

Compensation in a Philidelphia Nursing Home Wrongful Death Claim

Families who file a wrongful death lawsuit may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Costs related to treatment prior to the resident’s death.
• Funeral and burial costs: Expenses for laying the loved one to rest.
• Pain and suffering: Emotional trauma experienced by the deceased before passing.
• Loss of companionship: Compensation for the loss of love, guidance, and support.
• Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, additional damages may be awarded to punish the nursing home.

How a Philadelphia Nursing Home Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help in a Nursing Home Wrongful Death Case

An experienced Philadelphia nursing home wrongful death lawyer can guide families through the legal process and fight for justice. Here is how a lawyer can help:

• Investigating the case: Gathering medical records, witness statements, and surveillance footage to uncover evidence of neglect or abuse.
• Identifying liable parties: Determining whether the nursing home, staff members, or third-party contractors were responsible for the wrongful death.
• Handling legal filings and deadlines: Ensuring that the lawsuit is filed within Pennsylvania’s two-year statute of limitations and that all paperwork is properly submitted.
• Negotiating with insurance companies: Pushing back against low settlement offers and securing fair compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and emotional suffering.
• Representing families in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, an attorney will advocate in court to hold the nursing home accountable.

By working with a skilled nursing home wrongful death lawyer, families can focus on healing while ensuring their loved one’s death does not go unanswered.

Contact a Philadelphia Nursing Home Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you suspect that a loved one’s death was due to nursing home negligence, consult a wrongful death attorney immediately. We will fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves. Call (215) 569-0200 or contact Rosenbaum & Associates online today to arrange a free consultation.