Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.FindLaw IM Template2024-03-08T20:12:38Zhttps://www.sarklawfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1402322/2019/12/cropped-favicon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503322024-03-05T20:13:57Z2024-03-08T20:12:38Z1. Poor staffing levels
One indicator of a bad nursing home is inadequate staffing levels. When there are not enough staff members to care for residents properly, it can lead to neglect and substandard care. Look out for signs of overworked or stressed staff, such as high turnover rates and frequent use of agency or temporary workers.
2. Unsanitary conditions
A clean and hygienic environment is important for the health and well-being of nursing home residents. Signs of poor hygiene practices include dirty or foul-smelling living areas, unclean bedding or clothing and unsanitary bathroom facilities, all of which can lead to infections and other health issues and signal neglect on the part of the workers.
3. Lack of personalized care
Each resident in a nursing home has unique needs and preferences, including medical ones, and facilities need to take the time to get to know residents and provide individualized care plans. Nursing homes should have some routine for developing these they can explain to you.
4. Lack of opportunities for interaction and fun
Engaging activities and social interaction are important for mental and emotional well-being. A lack of organized activities or opportunities for socialization, such as planned group activities or regular social events, can lead to feelings of isolation and depression.
5. Unhappy residents
As you tour a facility, if most or all of the residents seem unhappy or down in spirits, it is a red flag. Nursing home abuse and neglect often go unreported, but even if they are not present, dissatisfied residents may indicate conditions are not satisfactory.
It is important to be vigilant when choosing a nursing home for a loved one. By being aware of potential signs of a bad nursing home, you can help ensure that your loved one receives the care and support they deserve. Individuals who suspect ongoing abuse have legal and reporting options.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503212024-02-21T15:02:34Z2024-02-23T15:02:26ZFrequent misinterpretation of speech
People with severe hearing loss may frequently misinterpret speech, leading to misunderstandings and confusion. They may respond inappropriately to questions or comments, often due to only catching parts of the conversation. This can strain relationships and create frustration for both the individual with hearing loss and those around them.
Withdrawal from social activities
Individuals experiencing severe hearing loss may withdraw from social activities and gatherings due to difficulty communicating effectively. They may avoid situations where hearing and understanding speech are challenging, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Withdrawal from social interactions can negatively impact mental health and overall well-being.
Increased volume of television or radio
Another common sign of severe hearing loss is the need to increase the volume of the television or other devices to levels that others find uncomfortably loud. This behavior may be a way for individuals with hearing loss to understand the audio clearly.
Struggles with telephone conversations
Severe hearing loss can make telephone conversations particularly challenging. Individuals may struggle to hear the caller's voice clearly, leading to frequent misunderstandings and frustration. They may also avoid making or receiving phone calls altogether, preferring alternative methods of communication such as text messaging or email.
Difficulty hearing alarm clocks or doorbells
Individuals with severe hearing loss may have difficulty hearing auditory cues, such as alarm clocks or doorbells. This can pose safety risks and inconveniences in daily life.
Recognizing the signs of severe hearing loss may be tough at first after an injury. However, by seeking timely intervention, individuals can learn more and reduce the impact of hearing loss on their lives.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503172024-02-07T02:15:11Z2024-02-10T02:14:18ZWho can pursue a wrongful death claim?
Indiana statutes limit the right to file a wrongful death claim to certain individuals. Typically, only the personal representative of the deceased person's estate is eligible to initiate such a legal action. The personal representative is the person appointed by the court to manage the affairs of the deceased's estate.
Additionally, state law allows certain family members to benefit from the wrongful death claim. The surviving spouse and dependent children of the deceased are usually the primary beneficiaries. If there is no surviving spouse or dependent children, other family members, such as parents or siblings, may have the right to pursue the claim.
What are the time limits for filing a claim?
It is important to be aware of the time constraints associated with filing a wrongful death claim. The state has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for initiating legal action. Typically, a person must file a wrongful death claim within two years of the date of the deceased person's death. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
If a wrongful death claim is successful, the compensation awarded can cover various damages. These may include medical and funeral expenses, loss of the deceased person's earnings and the emotional suffering experienced by the surviving family members.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503192024-02-08T04:01:05Z2024-02-08T04:01:05ZDistracted driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating or adjusting the radio can divert a driver's attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Speeding
Driving above the posted speed limit reduces a driver's ability to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of collisions. Speeding contributes to a significant number of accidents and fatalities on Indiana roads each year.
Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major contributor to car accidents. These drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment and decreased coordination, making them more likely to cause accidents.
Extreme fatigue has similar effects on the body, so stay off the roads if you are too tired to function safely. It is illegal and highly dangerous to operate a vehicle while impaired.
Weather conditions
The Hoosier State experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, including snow, ice, rain and fog, which can make driving hazardous. Poor weather conditions reduce visibility and traction, increasing the risk of accidents.
Drivers must exercise caution and adjust their driving behavior to accommodate changing weather conditions.
Failure to obey traffic laws
Disregarding traffic laws, such as running red lights, failing to yield or making illegal turns, contributes to many car accidents. Drivers who disregard traffic laws put themselves and others at risk of serious injury or death.
Inexperienced drivers
Inexperienced drivers, including teenagers and those who have recently obtained their driver's licenses, are more prone to accidents due to a lack of driving skills and judgment. Inexperience combined with distractions or speeding can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
Help reduce car accidents
Drivers should prioritize safety, follow traffic laws and practice defensive driving techniques to avoid accidents and ensure the well-being of everyone on the road.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503102024-01-22T21:03:25Z2024-01-31T21:02:27ZFile a claim with your insurance company
If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own auto policy, you can file a claim to get compensation for your losses up to the limits of that coverage. This protects you in instances where the at-fault driver either has no insurance or does not have enough to fully cover your damages.
Take the other driver to court
You may be able to recover losses by suing the uninsured driver in Indiana small claims court. This legal process offers a quick and simple resolution for small disputes. Even without insurance, the at-fault driver may have assets you can pursue, such as bank accounts or property. The court can issue a judgment that obligates the responsible party to compensate you.
When an uninsured driver hits you, getting compensation for your injuries and the damage to your car is more challenging than it would otherwise be. Understanding the options available to you for restitution can help you choose the path that best fits your needs. Make sure your insurance policy includes uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to help ease this financial burden and take the steps to seek compensation when possible.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503082024-01-22T21:01:33Z2024-01-29T21:00:50ZOversharing details of your injury
Do not provide too many details about your injury on social platforms. Photos, videos and excessive written information about the specifics of your injury or how the accident happened could complicate your claim. The less said online, the better.
Disclosing confidential case details
Do not discuss any confidential details about your workers' comp case online, including information about hearings, negotiations or settlements.
Venting negatively about your employer
It may be tempting to air grievances about your employer or job online. Unfortunately, negative comments and rants could weaken your case, especially if they contradict any details you have provided in your claim.
Posting about physical activities
Be mindful of sharing fitness progress and physical activities on social media. Posts about training for a 10K or rock climbing trip may not align with claimed injury limitations from your work accident. Avoid posts that suggest you are less injured than claimed. This even includes tags in pictures that your friends or family share, so be mindful of those as well.
A workers' compensation case means your social media activity is under scrutiny. Avoid oversharing injury details, bashing your employer or portraying exaggerated abilities. Your posts could jeopardize your claim. Statistics show that the average workers’ compensation award in 2020-2021 was $41,757. Moderate your social media use to maximize your chances of adequate compensation.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503012024-01-29T18:00:44Z2024-01-29T18:00:44ZForms of neglect
Nursing home neglect can manifest in various forms, affecting residents physically and emotionally. Physical neglect includes insufficient assistance with daily activities. Common signs of neglect include bedsores, falls, unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, malnutrition and inadequate medical care.
Emotional neglect, on the other hand, may result from isolation or lack of social interaction, impacting the mental well-being of residents. Signs may include withdrawal, depression, anxiety and a lack of engagement.
Consequences for patients
The consequences of neglect can be severe for nursing home residents. Untreated medical conditions, infections and dehydration may arise, worsening health issues. Emotional neglect can contribute to depression and anxiety, diminishing the overall quality of life for those in care.
Common causes of nursing home neglect
Nursing home neglect often stems from:
Inadequate staffing levels
Insufficient training
Poor supervision
Budget constraints
Lack of resources
Improper facility management can increase neglect. None of these causes excuse neglecting patients.
Advocating for residents
Families and friends can play a crucial role in advocating for nursing home residents. Regular visits allow for the observation of living conditions and the well-being of loved ones. If you are close enough, make unscheduled and unannounced visits to the facility where your loved one lives. This may give you a better chance of detecting neglect.
Open communication with staff can address concerns promptly and ensure that residents receive the care they deserve.
Preventing neglect
To prevent neglect, families should stay informed about the care plans for their loved ones and actively participate in the care process. Inquiring about staffing levels, training programs and resident activities can contribute to a safer and more supportive nursing home environment.
Reporting your concerns
If you suspect nursing home neglect, take immediate action by reporting your concerns to the appropriate authorities. Some forms of nursing home neglect may give you grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Providing detailed information and evidence about observed neglect can aid in addressing the issue promptly.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503052024-01-19T20:43:58Z2024-01-26T20:43:49ZSize disparity
One of the primary reasons small vehicles are at risk on the road is the glaring size difference between them and trucks. Towering, giant trucks can weigh up to several times more than the average car, dwarfing any smaller vehicles on the road. In the event of a collision, the smaller vehicle often bears the brunt of the impact, leading to severe injuries.
Limited visibility
Truck drivers grapple with limited visibility, especially in their blind spots. Small vehicles traveling in these blind spots become virtually invisible to the truck driver.
Braking challenges
Trucks require a significantly longer distance to come to a complete stop compared to smaller vehicles. This difference in braking capabilities poses a huge risk, especially in situations where sudden stops happen. Small vehicles may find themselves unable to react in time, resulting in rear-end collisions.
Swinging turns
The wide turns executed by trucks can catch smaller vehicles off guard. As trucks make turns, they swing wide to accommodate their extended trailers. This swinging motion can lead to crashes with adjacent smaller vehicles in this scenario.
5,904 American trucks and buses were in deadly crashes in 2021. While trucks are important for the economy, truckers need to stay vigilant and understand the risks associated with sharing the road. By acknowledging the challenges, people can take proactive measures to help ensure safer travels for everyone on the road.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=503032024-01-19T10:53:43Z2024-01-24T10:52:29ZCompensation after injury accidents
After an injury accident, you may have the right to seek compensation from those at fault. Whether it is a car crash or a slip and fall, those injured can file a claim with the at-fault party's insurance to cover medical expenses, property damage and other losses.
Insurance companies investigate accidents, searching for evidence of fault. They often look at social media posts during their search, trying to identify reasons they can use to justify paying lesser amounts of compensation.
There are several compelling reasons to exercise caution and restraint in the online realm after accidents.
Admissions of fault
Individuals may unintentionally admit fault on social media. Insurers can use posted details about the accident or expressed opinions against you, making it harder to get fair compensation.
Privacy invasion
Sharing personal updates may invite intrusion into your private life. Insurance companies and opposing parties can exploit anything you post to argue the severity of injuries or dispute the legitimacy of claims.
Inconsistent narratives
Inconsistencies between the information shared on social media and the official account of the accident can cast doubt on the validity of your injury claim. This can potentially lead to reduced compensation or claim denial.
Surveillance and scrutiny
Insurance companies often conduct surveillance on claimants. Posting on social media provides them with a window into your life, possibly giving them ammunition to challenge claims. Even if you later delete posts, they may still be available to use as evidence.
Exercise caution
In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of daily life. By understanding the potential pitfalls and avoiding unnecessary online disclosures after an injury accident, you can safeguard your claims for compensation and navigate the legal process more effectively.]]>On Behalf of Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates P.C.https://www.sarklawfirm.com/?p=502992024-01-12T16:43:10Z2024-01-12T16:43:10ZMind the signs and signals
Signs and signals designed to guide drivers through altered traffic patterns are present in all construction zones. Paying close attention to these indicators can provide important information about lane closures, speed reductions and potential detours. Failure to heed these warnings increases the risk of collisions. Stay alert, read and comprehend the signage, and adjust your driving accordingly.
Reduce speed and increase following distance
Speed limits in construction zones are not arbitrary; they are carefully set to accommodate the altered conditions. Reduce your speed as soon as you enter road work areas, giving yourself ample time to react to unexpected changes. Additionally, increase your following distance to account for sudden stops or slowdowns. This precautionary measure gives you the necessary space to respond to the movements of other vehicles and construction equipment, reducing the likelihood of rear-end collisions.
Stay in your designated lane
Construction zones often feature narrow or shifting lanes, demanding precision from drivers. Avoid unnecessary movement and stay within your designated lane to maintain a steady traffic flow. Sudden changes can lead to confusion and increase the chances of sideswipes or collisions. Patience and adherence to lane discipline are essential for a safe passage through these areas.
Be cautious around heavy machinery
Road work areas are buzzing with heavy machinery and equipment. Exercise extreme caution when navigating around these vehicles, as they may have limited visibility and restricted maneuverability. Give construction vehicles ample space and avoid lingering in their blind spots to minimize the risk of accidents.
By adopting these proactive measures, you can contribute to a safer environment whenever you encounter road construction areas.]]>