Independence Elopement Lawyer

How to Get Compensation for Elopement-Related Injuries in Missouri

When a person is not properly supervised in a nursing home or similar care facility and wanders off the premises, it is called “elopement.” Elopement is a serious problem that can lead to severe injuries and even death. If you or your loved one has been injured or killed because of nursing home negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.

At the Law Office of Tom Wagstaff, we understand how devastating it can be to learn that your loved one was injured or killed in an elopement incident. That’s why our Independence elopement lawyer is committed to fighting for the fair recovery you are owed. We have a proven track record of success and are prepared to put our extensive experience to work for you.

To learn more about how our team can assist you with your case, contact us online or call us today at (816) 597-4556.

What is Elopement?

Nursing home elopement refers to a situation where a resident of a nursing home or long-term care facility wanders away or leaves the premises without supervision or authorization. This can be a serious concern as it poses risks to the safety and well-being of the resident, especially if they have cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Common causes of nursing home elopement include:

• Dementia or cognitive impairment: Residents with dementia may wander due to confusion or disorientation, leading them to leave the facility without realizing the potential dangers.
• Inadequate supervision: Shortage of staff or insufficient monitoring can make it easier for residents to elope undetected.
• Poor facility design: Inadequate security measures or poorly designed facilities with easy access to exits can facilitate elopement.
• Staff negligence: Failure to properly assess and monitor residents' needs or failure to implement appropriate safety measures can contribute to elopement incidents.
• Lack of proper communication: Ineffective communication among staff members or between staff and family members may result in lapses in supervision and increase the risk of elopement.
• Medication side effects: Certain medications may cause confusion or disorientation, increasing the likelihood of wandering behavior.
• Unmet needs: Residents may elope in search of something they feel is lacking, such as social interaction, stimulation, or a desire to return to a familiar environment.

Types of Facilities Where Elopement May Occur

Elopement can occur in any type of facility where patients are not properly supervised. This includes:

• Nursing homes
• Assisted living facilities
• Memory care facilities
• Group homes
• Rehabilitation centers

How Elopement Can Be Prevented

Facilities that care for patients who are prone to wandering should have several safety measures in place to prevent elopement, including:

• Secure doors: All doors that lead to the outside should have alarms on them that can be heard throughout the facility. They should also be locked at all times.
• Practiced staff: All staff members should receive regular training on how to prevent elopement. This includes how to recognize when a patient is likely to elope and how to properly supervise them to ensure they do not wander off.
• Properly trained staff: All staff members should be properly trained and supervised to ensure that they are providing the best possible care to all patients.
• Supervision: All patients who are prone to wandering should be properly supervised at all times.
• Properly trained staff: All staff members should be properly trained and supervised to ensure that they are providing the best possible care to all patients.
• Supervision: All patients who are prone to wandering should be properly supervised at all times.

What to Do After an Elopement Injury

If your loved one has been injured or killed because of elopement, it is important to take the following steps:

1. Take pictures: Take pictures of the scene of the accident, as well as your loved one’s injuries.
2. Talk to witnesses: If anyone saw the accident occur, be sure to talk to them and get their contact information.
3. Seek medical attention: If your loved one has been injured in an elopement incident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Even if your loved one does not appear to be injured, it is still a good idea to schedule a check-up with their doctor.
4. Contact a lawyer: An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim.