When a family places a loved one in a nursing home, they’re putting their trust — and their hearts — in the hands of others. So when that trust is broken by neglect or unsafe conditions, the consequences can be devastating. Falls in nursing homes are one of the most common and preventable causes of injury among seniors in Oklahoma. The question is: what can you do if it happens?
At Aldridge Teasdale, we’ve helped families hold negligent facilities accountable after serious falls. Here’s what you should know if a loved one was injured in a nursing home accident.
1. Falls Are Often a Sign of Neglect
Not every fall is caused by negligence — but many are. Nursing homes have a legal duty to provide a safe environment, especially for residents who are elderly, disabled, or prone to balance issues. Common causes of preventable falls include:
- Wet or slick floors without warning signs
- Poor lighting in hallways and bathrooms
- Loose handrails or missing grab bars
- Cluttered walkways or obstacles in rooms
- Understaffing or delayed assistance when residents need help
When a facility cuts corners on safety or staffing, residents pay the price — and families deserve answers.
2. Injuries from Falls Can Be Life-Altering
For older adults, even a single fall can cause catastrophic harm. We’ve seen cases involving:
- Broken hips or pelvic fractures
- Head trauma and brain injuries
- Spinal injuries and chronic pain
- Loss of independence and mobility
These injuries often trigger a permanent decline in health and quality of life. That’s why investigating the cause quickly is so important.
3. Nursing Homes Must Report and Document Falls
Oklahoma nursing homes are required by law to document every resident fall and provide appropriate medical care. Unfortunately, we’ve seen facilities try to downplay or hide what happened to avoid liability. Families should:
- Request the full incident report immediately
- Ask for medical records related to the fall
- Document visible injuries with photos
- Keep written notes on what staff say about the event
If the facility refuses to provide information or gives inconsistent answers, that’s a red flag that neglect may have played a role.
4. You Have the Right to Investigate
Falls in nursing homes often go unreported or are brushed off as “accidents.” But if you suspect negligence — like understaffing, poor maintenance, or ignored safety protocols — you have every right to seek legal help. An experienced slip and fall lawyer can help uncover the truth by reviewing facility policies, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining surveillance footage.
5. Holding Nursing Homes Accountable
When a nursing home fails in its duty to protect residents, families can file a claim for compensation. This may include:
- Medical costs and rehabilitation expenses
- Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Costs of transferring to a safer facility
- In extreme cases, damages for wrongful death
Legal action doesn’t just help your loved one — it can prevent the same harm from happening to someone else’s family.
Free Case Review for Nursing Home Falls
If your loved one fell in a nursing home and you suspect it could have been prevented, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving evidence and protecting their rights.
Request your Free Case Review or call (405) 447-HURT today. Aldridge Teasdale proudly stands up for Oklahoma families when nursing homes fail to keep their residents safe.
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