Can I Sue the Nursing Home if My Parent Fell and Got Hurt?

 Posted on September 25, 2025 in Nursing Home Abuse/ Neglect

For elderly residents in nursing homes, a single fall can cause serious injuries like broken hips or head trauma. Families are often shocked and angry when they learn their loved one was hurt in a facility that was supposed to keep them safe. If your parent or relative has been injured in a nursing home, understanding the protections Illinois law provides can make a major difference in how you move forward. A qualified Glenview, IL nursing home injury lawyer can review your case and help you make informed decisions about what to do next.

Why Are Nursing Home Falls So Serious?

Elderly residents are more likely to suffer severe injuries because they tend to have weaker bones and heal more slowly than younger patients. A fall that might leave a younger person with bruises could put an older adult in the hospital for weeks. These injuries can often lead to lasting disability and even wrongful death.

How Are Nursing Homes Expected to Prevent Falls?

In Illinois, nursing homes are legally required to provide safe conditions for their residents. The Illinois Nursing Home Care Act (210 ILCS 45) outlines specific rights that people in nursing facilities are entitled to. These rights include protection from neglect and the expectation that staff will take reasonable steps to prevent harm.

If someone’s fall happens because staff ignored safety rules, left hazards in walkways, or did not monitor residents properly, the nursing home may be held responsible.

What Should You Do if a Loved One Falls in a Nursing Home?

When a nursing home resident falls and gets hurt, families can take action. Some of their options include:

• Filing a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health

• Requesting medical records and incident reports from the facility

• Pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages

These steps not only help your family but might also push the facility to improve its policies and protect other residents from future harm.

Contact North Shore, IL Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer

If your loved one has been hurt in a nursing home fall, you do not need to try and take care of everything on your own. At Gruzmark Law, Ltd., we understand the pain and frustration these cases bring. Our Glenview, IL nursing home neglect attorneys can explain your options and fight to protect your family’s rights. Call us today at 847-729-7660 to schedule a free consultation.