What we handle
Families trust nursing homes to keep their parents and grandparents safe. When a facility is understaffed, cuts corners or ignores warning signs, residents get hurt. Evan Goldberg represents nursing home residents and their families throughout Rockland County, Westchester, Orange County and New York City.
If you suspect a loved one is being neglected or abused, call (845) 545-0448 for a free, confidential consultation. We can meet you at home or at the hospital.
Warning signs of nursing home neglect and abuse
- Bedsores (pressure ulcers), especially ones that get worse
- Unexplained falls, fractures, bruises or head injuries
- Sudden weight loss, dehydration or malnutrition
- Medication errors or over-sedation
- Poor hygiene, soiled bedding or untreated infections
- Wandering or elopement from the facility
- Fear, withdrawal or sudden changes in behavior around certain staff
- Unexplained changes in finances
Your rights under New York law
New York Public Health Law §2801-d gives nursing home residents the right to sue a facility that violates their rights under state or federal law. These include the right to adequate care, dignity, and freedom from abuse and neglect. Federal nursing home rules set standards for staffing, care planning, fall prevention and pressure ulcer prevention. When a facility breaks those rules and a resident is harmed, the facility can be held responsible.
What to do if you suspect a problem
- Make sure your loved one is safe and gets medical attention.
- Take dated photos of injuries and conditions in the room.
- Write down names, dates and what staff told you.
- Ask for a copy of the care plan and the medical chart.
- File a complaint with the New York State Department of Health, which accepts nursing home complaints online and by phone.
- Call an attorney before signing anything from the facility or its insurer.
What a claim can cover
A claim can cover medical costs, pain and suffering, and, in appropriate cases, punitive damages for willful or reckless violations. If a resident died because of neglect, the family may also have a wrongful death claim.
We also handle medical malpractice cases. Watch Evan discuss negligent nursing homes and residents' rights.
Serving clients across Rockland County — see our Rockland County personal injury lawyer page.
FAQ
Often, yes. Advanced pressure ulcers are usually preventable with proper turning, nutrition and monitoring, and their development can show neglect.
Many claims must be filed within three years. A wrongful death claim generally must be filed within two years of the death. Deadlines vary, so ask early.
Retaliation against residents is prohibited. If you're worried, we can help you plan a move to a safer facility.
Talk to Evan about your case.
Free, confidential consultation. Home and hospital visits available.
More practice areas
Other cases we handle
Workplace Accidents
Workplace injuries in Spring Valley, Rockland County, and New York City — protecting injured workers' rights.
Car & Motor Vehicle Accidents
Auto, truck, motorcycle, pedestrian, bicycle, and rideshare collisions.
Construction Accidents
NY Labor Law §240 and §241 scaffold, ladder, and site-injury claims.
Undocumented Worker Injuries
Immigration status does not matter. Undocumented workers have the same right to full compensation under New York Labor Law.
Slip, Trip & Fall
Snow and ice, broken stairs, defective sidewalks, and wet floors.
Wrongful Death
Compassionate representation for families pursuing accountability.