Yes. If the death was preventable and caused by a failure to meet the standard of care, families can pursue a wrongful death claim or an elder abuse lawsuit. These legal actions hold the corporation accountable for their lack of oversight and provide compensation for...
FAQs
How do I report a nursing home for a choking incident in Alameda County?
You should immediately contact the Alameda County Adult Protective Services (APS) at (510) 577-3500 and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Additionally, notifying the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman in Oakland ensures an independent advocate...
Is aspiration pneumonia considered elder neglect in California?
Yes. If a resident develops aspiration pneumonia because a facility failed to monitor them during meals or ignored a physician’s order for thickened liquids, it is often classified as medical neglect or elder abuse under the California Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult...
What are the most common causes of choking in Oakland nursing homes?
Most incidents are caused by systemic neglect, specifically chronic understaffing and a failure to follow Individualized Care Plans. When staff are rushed, they may provide the wrong food consistency (e.g., solid food instead of pureed) or fail to provide the...
How long does a bedsore lawsuit take?
These cases are complex and usually take 12 to 24 months to resolve. We move aggressively to gather evidence and prepare for trial to ensure the facility takes your claim seriously.
What are “enhanced remedies” under California law?
If we can prove "recklessness, oppression, or fraud," the law allows for the recovery of attorney’s fees and pain and suffering damages, providing a path to justice that standard personal injury law does not always offer.
Does the facility have to report the bedsore to the state?
In many instances, yes. However, facilities often "down-stage" wounds in their reports (e.g., calling a Stage III wound a Stage II) to avoid scrutiny. Our independent experts review the photos and records to determine the true severity.
How much is a bedsore case worth in Oakland?
The value depends on the severity of the wound, the level of recklessness by the facility, and the overall impact on the resident’s health. We have secured high six-figure and multi-million dollar results for these specific injuries.
Why is nutrition important in bedsore cases?
Wounds cannot heal without proper protein and hydration. If a facility fails to monitor a resident’s intake or consult a dietitian, they are failing a critical part of wound prevention and treatment.
Can we sue if the bedsore led to our loved one’s death?
Yes. A severe bedsore can lead to sepsis, which is a frequent cause of wrongful death in nursing homes. Under California’s Elder Abuse Act, families can seek damages for the pain and suffering the resident endured before their passing.


