San Francisco Neglect and Abuse Lawyer
It is a tragic fact that some of society’s most vulnerable sectors, such as children, the disabled, and the elderly, are also most vulnerable to suffering from abuse and neglect. These individuals often greatly rely on others to help with their daily care, financial management, and other tasks that are critical to ensuring they live their best lives.
Abuse and neglect are both betrayals of that trust. If you or someone you love has suffered at the hands of someone who was meant to provide quality care, you may be eligible for compensation. Our San Francisco neglect and abuse lawyer can help you obtain the full damages you and your family deserve.
Differentiating Between Abuse and Neglect
Many people often refer to abuse and neglect as they are the same thing, but that is not true. There are important differences between the two and it is important to understand what these are, as they may have an impact on any future personal injury claim you may file.
Neglect refers to an unintentional act that was not intended to cause another person harm. For example, a staff member in a nursing home may be overworked due to a lack of staffing. This may cause them to forget about a resident who is bedridden. The resident may then develop bed sores because the staff member failed to reposition them regularly. Although the staff member did not intend to cause the resident harm, they can still be held liable because they had a duty to provide for the resident’s needs.
On the other hand, abuse is intentional. Using the above example, a nursing home staff member may intentionally leave a resident in bed. They may want to punish them for requiring care, or isolate them for other reasons. This behavior is intentional and so, it is different from neglect.
Who are Most Often Victims of Abuse and Neglect?
Nursing home residents are often victims of abuse and neglect. Unfortunately, there are others that are susceptible, as well.
Disabled individuals are very susceptible to abuse and neglect for the same reasons as nursing home residents. These individuals rely heavily on other people for their daily care. These caretakers are often in-home nurses, family members, and other individuals. Caretakers are even more likely to become frustrated and stressed when caring for another person, but this is never reason to engage in neglect or abuse.
Lastly, while no one wants to think about it, children can also become victims of abuse and neglect. This can happen at daycares, schools, and other facilities entrusted to provide children with the best possible care. Sadly, foster children are particularly vulnerable to neglect and abuse, often because they are quite isolated and do not believe they have anyone to confide in.
Our Neglect and Abuse Lawyer in San Francisco Can Help with Your Case
At Venardi Zurada, our San Francisco neglect and abuse lawyer is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable sectors of society and we can help you and your family, too. Call us today at (833) 893-6763 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help you claim the full settlement you deserve.