Are Hoyer Lift Accidents a Sign of Nursing Home Neglect?

Unfortunately, Hoyer lift accidents are often signs of nursing home neglect. These lifts are designed to help a resident out of bed without the need for several nursing home staff to assist.

If your loved one suffered an injury due to a Hoyer lift accident, the nursing home or its staff could be to blame. Before you move forward with legal action, consider hiring an attorney to help you with your loved one’s claim.

Common Causes of Hoyer Lift Accidents

Despite their usefulness, Hoyer lifts are not without their risks and a number of factors must be assessed before they can be used safely, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Because these lifts are not anchored to the floor or ceiling, there remains a risk of falling at any time. These tools are particularly dangerous when used by untrained personnel or when operated without the necessary preparations.

Some of the injuries involving these devices result from the negligence of those charged with using them. There are different factors that could lead to an accident. Some of the reasons for Hoyer lift accidents include:

Inadequate Training

A Hoyer lift can be a complex machine to operate safely. Without following detailed instructions for use, a nursing home caregiver could put a resident in a dangerous position. Nursing home employees with little to no experience handling these lifts could cause a resident to fall.

Understaffing

Understaffing is a major issue when it comes to Hoyer lift accidents. Appropriate use of the lift typically requires at least two staff members to operate. However, an understaffed facility might not have the manpower necessary.

If an employee attempts to use a Hoyer lift on their own, they could cause an accident.

Neglect

In some cases, nursing home staff will leave a resident unattended while on or near a Hoyer lift. When this type of neglect occurs, a resident could fall or injure themselves.

Poor Maintenance

Some accidents occur due to the poor maintenance of the Hoyer lift itself. Like all medical devices, it is the responsibility of the facility and its employees to ensure that a Hoyer lift stays in appropriate working order. The failure to do this could result in liability for any injuries that occur.

Any of these accidents have the potential to cause serious bodily injuries. From broken bones to lacerations, these injuries could be especially dangerous for nursing home residents. In severe cases like traumatic brain injuries, a fall from a Hoyer lift could have fatal consequences.

For a free legal consultation, call (855) 605-2959

Consider Filing a Claim for Compensation After a Hoyer Lift Accident

Not every accident involving a Hoyer lift will result from an act of negligence. This is important, as negligence is required in order to seek compensation through an injury claim. Your attorney can investigate the facts surrounding your loved one’s fall and determine who is responsible for their injuries.

Then, your lawyer may be able to pursue compensation for your loved one’s medical costs and even their pain and suffering–both past and future–resulting from their Hoyer lift accident injuries.

Call an Attorney Today for Help After a Hoyer Lift Accident

If you are ready to learn more about your family’s legal options, High Stakes Injury Law is here to help. We can review your Hoyer lift accident case for signs of nursing home neglect. To get started with your claim, call us at (702) 707-5934 for a free consultation right away.

Call or text (855) 605-2959 or complete a Free Case Review form