New Mexico nursing home lawsuit results in $54 million verdict
On June 28, a jury awarded $54 million for compensatory and punitive damages in a New Mexico nursing home neglect lawsuit. The verdict, which is possibly one of the largest judgments in New Mexico state history according to the Albuquerque Tribune, not only provides justice for the family, but will hopefully act as an important influence to improve the standard of care rendered in nursing homes throughout the United States.
The nursing home lawsuit was filed following the 2004 death of a 78 year old resident of ManorCare Camino Vista nursing home in Albuquerque. At the time of her death, the resident was scheduled to leave the facility within a week to stay with family. However, the jury found that the nursing home neglected her to the point that she lost her life.
>>INFORMATION: Nursing home wrongful death
The Albuquerque Tribune posted a poll asking readers whether they agree with the jury award. As of last night, nearly 200 votes had been cast and approximately 2/3rds indicate that the verdict was either about right or should have been more.
Approximately $50 million of the verdict was awarded for punitive damages. According to the lawsuit, the nursing home attempted to cover up the neglect after the death by removing sheets and other items from the room.
The New Mexico nursing home was operated by Manor Care, Inc., a large publicly traded corporation which owns and operates at least 500 nursing homes nationwide. They no longer operate any New Mexico nursing homes, with the last of their homes sold in 2005, the year after the death which lead to this wrongful death lawsuit. It was announced last week in an unrelated press release, that a private equity firm will purchase the nursing home operator for approximately $6.3 billion.
>>PRIOR POST (7/4/07): Small nursing homes vs Large corporate owned facilities
NURSING HOME LAWYERS
The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. investigate lawsuits for nursing home neglect and abuse nationwide. Unfortunately, the quality of care rendered in facilities across the country is a national disgrace, and nursing home injuries are suffered with surprising frequency. If you, a friend or family member were injured by negligent care or abuse in a nursing home, request a free claim evaluation.
