Tragic Neglect: A 97-Year-Old Woman’s Preventable Fall in a Nursing Facility Van

Tragic neglect caused a 97-Year-Old woman’s preventable fall in a nursing facility van.

$325,000 Amount
Fall Injury Practice Area
CA State
Settlement Result

When families place their trust in a Skilled Nursing Facility, they expect their loved ones to be safe and well cared for—even during something as routine as a trip to a medical appointment. Tragically, that trust was shattered for a 97-year-old woman whose life was cut short after a preventable fall in a facility van.

The woman, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, was the cornerstone of her family. Known for her love and wisdom, she was deeply loved by those around her. Her family chose the facility with the hope she would receive compassionate, safe care in her final years. Instead, they were met with heartbreak and unimaginable pain.

During transport to a medical appointment, the woman fell from her wheelchair because she had not been properly secured. The fall caused catastrophic injuries, including an avulsion fracture of her shoulder socket, a deep knee laceration requiring sutures, and abrasions to her temple.

The worst part? Despite the severity of her injuries, the facility failed to provide the care she desperately needed. For ten agonizing days, she endured extreme pain, her injuries left untreated. She passed away, leaving her family devastated and searching for answers.


“She was the glue that held our family together.”

Her granddaughter spoke of the family’s grief, saying, “To know her final days were marked by pain and neglect is unbearable. We trusted them to care for her, and they let her down in the worst way.”

The family was left struggling with anger, guilt, and the heartbreak of losing someone so dear under such preventable circumstances.

Accountability and Justice

At Bedsore.Law, we firmly believe that nursing homes must be held accountable for every preventable injury. In this case, it was clear the facility failed in their most basic responsibilities:

This failure led to unimaginable suffering, but through a thorough investigation, Sam Forbes-Roberts and his team uncovered the truth. The case settled for $325,000, providing the family with some measure of justice and sending a powerful message: Neglect is never acceptable. Together, we can stop it.


Why Falls Are Preventable

Falls are one of the most common—and preventable—causes of injuries in nursing facilities. With proper training, safety protocols, and attentive staff, tragedies like this can and should be avoided.

Families can play an active role by asking about safety measures, transportation policies, and emergency care protocols. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Don’t wait for a tragedy to strike.


How We Can Help

At Bedsore.Law, we know how overwhelming it can be to uncover neglect in a facility you trusted. But you don’t have to face it alone. “We’re here to hold nursing homes accountable and ensure justice for your loved ones.”

Our team of experienced attorneys understands that seeking justice is about more than compensation—it’s about dignity, accountability, and ensuring no other family has to endure the same pain.

If you suspect neglect or wrongdoing, don’t wait. “Contact us today for a free consultation. Justice begins with taking the first step—let us guide you.”


Final Thoughts

The story of this 97-year-old woman is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of nursing home neglect. These injuries are preventable, and we can prove it in court. Families deserve answers and the assurance that their loved ones are treated with the care and respect they deserve.

At Bedsore.Law, we fight tirelessly for justice, dignity, and accountability. “Don’t let nursing home neglect go unchecked—speak up for your loved one today!”