How Often Does Financial Abuse Occur in Nursing Homes?
Financial abuse is a fast-growing form of exploitation in residents of nursing homes that can have devastating effects. This type of abuse can be just as damaging as physical or emotional mistreatment, but is usually more difficult to detect and establish. Continue reading to learn about what constitutes elder financial abuse, the warning signs to be aware of, and what you can do to prevent it from happening to you or your loved ones. What is Elder Financial Abuse? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes elder financial abuse as the illegal, unauthorized, or improper use of an elder’s: Money Benefits Belongings Property Assets Essentially, any sort of financial or material exploitation is considered abuse. This can happen to any senior, regardless of their socio-economic status. Nursing home residents are especially prone to this type of mistreatment, as they may be more vulnerable to deceptive practices taking place. In many cases, the victims are completely unaware that this is transpiring. Financial Abuse Examples Financial abuse does not occur in a one-size-fits-all formula. There are many variations of this type of exploitation, but here are some of the most common examples: Depriving an older person of rightful access to their assets Forging their signature Cashing their checks without permission or authorization Stealing or misusing an elderly person’s money or possessions Coercing them to sign documents, such as a contract or will Improper use of guardianship or power of attorney Frequency of Financial Abuse Elder abuse is a serious problem in the United States. There are many different types and unfortunately, they are all quite common. Abuse is experienced by about 1 in 10 people aged 60 and older who live in nursing homes. An Oxford study from February 2019 discovered that about 13.8 percent of nursing home residents have encountered financial abuse. Conversely, only about 6.8 percent of them generally report it. Overall, estimates suggest that 64.2 percent of staff admitted to elder abuse over one year. Signs of Elder Financial Abuse It is important to understand the signs of financial abuse to safeguard your loved one if they are a facility resident. Some of the most common signs include: Unexplained cash withdrawals or transfers Abrupt financial document changes Living conditions that are below means Cheap medications Lacking medical devices Missing cards or noticing unusual charges Fraudulent signatures Becoming reluctant to talk about financial issues Preventing Financial Abuse Understanding the signs of financial abuse is a great start toward preventing it. Additionally, here are some other methods for avoiding this type of exploitation: Check reviews of nursing facilities before hiring anyone to administer care Use automatic bill paying systems Communicate with banks if you notice suspicious activity Consider hiring a geriatric care manager to oversee finances Be wary of caregivers who attempt to excessively isolate your loved one Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here to Help If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of elder financial abuse, report it immediately to your state’s hotline. You should also contact the police and Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton. Our qualified attorneys have experience handling all types of elder abuse cases, including financial abuse. We fight for victims and their families to receive not only fair compensation but also respect and kindness. We have offices throughout Utah County as well as West Jordan in Utah. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
What Are the Odds of Surviving a Motorcycle Accident?
Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating outcomes, so understanding how to protect yourself as an operator is essential. Today, we’re diving deep into the statistics behind motorcycle accidents and sharing tips for staying safe on the road. Chances of Survival Unfortunately, the odds of surviving a motorcycle accident are lamentably grim. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shared that if a motorcyclist collides with another vehicle, they are 27 times more likely to die and 8 times more likely to get injured than those in the other vehicle. Motorcycle Accident Statistics In 2018, there were 4,985 motorcycle fatalities in the United States. Of those fatalities, 91 percent of victims were male, while only 9 percent were female. 28 percent of the fatalities were riders under the age of 30, while riders over the age of 50 accounted for 7 percent. Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Many of these accidents happen while cars are making left turns. In this situation, the motorcycle rider is trying to go straight through the intersection. If the motorist turns without paying attention, they could easily strike the motorcyclist. Attentiveness from both parties is needed to help avoid these types of accidents. Another common cause of motorcycle accidents happens when a car is switching lanes. These collisions usually occur on multi-lane roads where it can be hard to see the motorcyclist. To avoid this type of collision, the burden falls on the car operator. Pay attention to your surroundings and always double-check your blind spot to ensure that the lane is clear. Motorcycle Safety Tips If you own a motorcycle, several steps can be taken to ensure the safety of yourself and others. The most essential tip you should remember is to always wear a helmet. The odds of surviving a motorcycle accident increase by 37 percent if a helmet is worn. Additionally, it’s a good idea to make sure your bike is equipped with ABS brakes. ABS, or anti-lock braking system, adjusts the braking pressure accordingly to prevent the wheel from locking. Brakes that lock up could result in a serious accident or injury. ABS technology has been known to reduce motorcycle fatalities by 31 percent. Another tip is to be aware of the time. Most motorcycle accidents occur from 3-9 pm, and that timeframe is considered the deadliest for motorcycle operators. Furthermore, Saturdays and Sundays are the most hazardous days of the week. When riding during these hectic times, be sure to exercise additional caution. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You A sudden motorcycle accident is a scary and stressful experience and can have unforeseen consequences that ripple through the rest of your life. Fortunately, the accident lawyers at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton are here to help. Since 1993, we have served clients throughout Utah, and we will work tirelessly to maximize the outcome of your case. Our offices are located in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Reach out for your free case evaluation today.
What is a Medication Error?
Medication errors injure thousands of people every year in the U.S., but fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself against this statistic. Continue reading to learn more about medicinal errors and ways you can take an active role in preventing this from happening to you. What are Medication Errors? According to the National Coordinating Council for Medication Error, medication errors are preventable events that can cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm. This can be caused by a healthcare professional, patient, or consumer. Unfortunately, these errors are quite common. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shared that they receive more than 100,000 reports each year associated with a suspected medication error. How do Medication Errors Happen? There are many ways medication errors can occur throughout the medication-use system. The following are some of the most common scenarios: While prescribing a drug Upon entering information into the computer When the drug is being prepared When the drug is dispensed When the drug is being taken Harmful Results This is a serious topic of conversation within the medical community because the results can be incredibly harmful. Serious outcomes may include: Life-threatening situations Death Hospitalization Disability Birth defect Four Tips for Prevention Although the effects of these errors can be deadly, many organizations are working tirelessly to reduce this problem. In the end, knowledge is your best defense. Ask Questions Whenever you start a new medication, be sure to know the answers to the following questions as outlined by Mayo Clinic: What is the name of the medication? What is it supposed to do for me and how long will it be until I see results? What is the prescribed dose and how long should I be taking it? What should I do if I miss a dose or accidentally take more than the recommended dose? Is there anything I should avoid while taking this medicine? What are the possible side effects and what should I do if they occur? Medication Reconciliation Medication reconciliation is a safety strategy that involves comparing the medications you are already taking to the new ones you are being prescribed. This should be done at every transition of care in which new drugs are introduced or refills are requested. Be sure to be transparent with your healthcare provider about which drugs you are currently taking, if you are allergic to any medications, or if you might be pregnant. Avoid These Common Mistakes Confusing ear drops and eye drops Chewing non-chewable medication Cutting up pills Using the wrong measuring spoon Practice Safe Habits Here are a few safety habits you should implement if you currently take any kind of medication: Keep an up-to-date list of all your medications Keep them in their original containers Save information sheets Use the same pharmacy for all prescriptions Double check prescriptions labels when you pick them up Never take someone else’s prescription Flicking Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You If you or a loved one have been injured because of a medication error caused by a healthcare professional, you need the help of an experienced medical malpractice attorney. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton assists clients in holding careless doctors, technicians, and pharmacists accountable and will fight to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Our offices are located in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. To find out how our attorneys can help, please contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Types of Car Accidents: Car Rollovers
Accidents are traumatic events that can leave a lasting impression on everyone involved, especially if the accident included a car rollover. Car rollovers are not incredibly common but tend to cause significant damage whenever they occur. Fortunately, there are ways to educate yourself and prevent these types of incidences. What is a Rollover Accident? Rollover accidents happen when a car flips on its side or rolls over to its roof during a collision. Car rollovers are the most dangerous type of accidents due to the high number of vehicle ejections and head injuries that result. These types of accidents only account for about 3 percent of all crashes, yet are responsible for over 35 percent of all motor vehicle occupant deaths. Common Causes There are a variety of factors that can contribute to a rollover accident. Here are a few of the most common causes: Vehicles with a higher center of gravity – While any type of automobile can experience a rollover, those with a higher center of gravity are more at risk. The most common culprits are SUVs, vans, pickup trucks, and commercial trucks. Overcorrection – It’s not unusual for drivers to overcorrect to avoid an accident or object in the road. The problem with overcorrection is that steering the wheel too sharply can lead to a rollover. Risky Maneuvers- Reckless driving such as speeding, taking a corner or curve too fast, or driving aggressively all contribute to car rollovers. Location – These types of accidents most commonly occur in rural areas that lack a divider between directional traffic lanes. Driving Under the Influence – Nearly half of all rollover accidents involve alcohol or drug impairment. Driving under the influence inhibits speed control, reaction times, and the ability to avoid hazards on the roadway. Tripped vs. Untripped There are two different types of rollover accidents- tripped and untripped. Tripped – Tripped rollovers, which account for 95 percent of rollover accidents, happen when a car leaves the roadway hitting some object that serves as a tripping mechanism. This is usually a curb, median, or guardrail. Untripped – Untripped rollovers are much less common and generally happen to top-heavy vehicles. They are caused by high-speed collision avoidance maneuvers. Preventing and Surviving a Rollover Common sense and safe driving can greatly increase your odds of avoiding a rollover and being able to survive one if it happens. Here are a few tips: Always wear safety belts Regularly inspect your tires Don’t overload your vehicle Follow the speed limit Beware on country roads Always drive sober Be aware and avoid distractions Share the road What to Do if You Are Involved in a Rollover Accident No accident is enjoyable, but rollovers can be particularly scary, especially if you’re in the middle of nowhere on a rural road. Below are some important tips to remember if you ever find yourself in this situation: Stay calm Assess your injuries Check on all passengers Exit the vehicle safely Call 911 or flag down help Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You Car rollovers are traumatic for all involved, but Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help to ease some of your burdens. Our skilled attorneys will help you understand the legal options you have for obtaining compensation and will ensure you receive the money you need to recover. We have offices in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us to discuss your options today.
What are Some Examples of Wrongful Injury Cases?
Wrongful injury is a broad field that encompasses numerous kinds of injuries; however, there are a few types of cases that are common in the U.S. Continue reading to learn about four of the most common examples of personal injury claims that are pursued with the help of an attorney. Car Accidents One of the most common examples of wrongful injuries is car accidents. Most accidents happen because one of the drivers involved is driving carelessly. The motorist who is at fault can be held liable for any injury sustained in the accident. Utah is considered a no-fault state. This means that drivers will receive compensation from their own insurance company instead of from the driver who was at fault. Under no-fault laws, motorists may sue for severe injuries only if the case meets certain conditions. Slip and Fall Cases Property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their location free of potential hazards. Not all injuries that happen on a property will lead to liability; this is determined on a case-by-case basis. If you are wounded on some else’s property, make sure you report the injury to the owner first. Next, if there are any witnesses, get their name and contact information. If possible, take pictures of the damage and what caused it. Seek medical treatment, if needed. While you are receiving care, make sure you explain the nature of your injuries to your healthcare provider. Medical Malpractice Medical malpractice is another major example of a wrongful injury. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, medical negligence is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and there are between 80,000 and 100,000 deaths every year. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional fails to treat their patients at the minimum standard of care. When the lack of proficient medical care leads to injury, the health care professional and the facility could be held liable. Dog Bites Dog bites are an additional example of wrongful injuries. In most cases, the owner of the dog will be held responsible. There are two different types of dog bite laws that most states have adopted: strict liability and “one bite” laws. Strict liability means that even if a dog has shown no aggression in the past, the owner will be held accountable if their dog bites someone. Utah, among 35 other states, is a strict liability state. A few states carry “one bite” laws. This allows dogs that have a history of being calm “one bite” before the owner is held financially responsible. Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton for Personal Injury Cases If you have incurred a wrongful injury due to the actions of others, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help. Our personal injury attorneys handle cases involving a wide range of injuries, and will help you build a case against those responsible for your injury. We have offices in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Reach out for your free case evaluation today.
Sexual Abuse Statistics Everyone Should Know
Sexual abuse statistics reveal that this is a significant public health problem in the United States. Experiencing sexual abuse can affect how a person thinks, acts, and feels over a lifetime. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this type of mistreatment and numerous resources out there for healing. Essential Statistics Sexual abuse is a rampant problem spanning our nation. Understanding its severity can enable people to act and make an ongoing difference. Here are a few unsettling sexual abuse statistics that currently plague our country: An American is sexually abused every 73 seconds. From 2009-2013, Child Protective Services concluded that 63,000 children were abused each year. 66 percent of minor victims are between the ages of 12 and 17, and 33 percent are under the age of 12. 55 percent of sexual assaults happen at or near the victim’s home. Authorities respond to a report of child sexual abuse every nine minutes. Warning Signs in Young Children and Adolescents Considering the gravity of these horrifying numbers, everyone must be able to recognize the warning signs of sexual assault in young children and adolescents. Warning signs in young children: Not speaking as much as normal Overly compliant behavior Exceedingly worrisome Unexplained health problems Avoiding removing clothes, such as to take a bath Regressive behaviors, such as thumb sucking or bedwetting Warning signs in adolescents: Having extensive knowledge about sexual topics Drug and alcohol abuse Self-harm Sexual promiscuity Running away from home Depression and anxiety Keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list. If anything feels off while interacting with a child, pay attention to that feeling and look into it further. Sexual Abuse Prevention Stop It Now is an organization that aims to prevent sexual exploitation by mobilizing adults to take actions that protect children before they are harmed. They share an endless amount of helpful tips and resources for sexual abuse prevention, including: Create a safety plan for your loved ones to follow if they ever find themselves in an abusive situation. Here are the key aspects of a family safety plan: Educate the entire family on warning signs and what healthy sexual development is. Have clear and open communication. Set well-defined familial boundaries. Involve safe adults that children feel comfortable talking with. Become familiar with local resources. Have the courage to reach out for help. Speak up and have open dialogue when you suspect mistreatment. Learn about what makes a child vulnerable to exploitation and be aware of these factors. Resources If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse, several beneficial resources can help you on your path to healing. First, you can call the sexual assault hotline at 800-656-4673 any time; they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Additionally, many websites share excellent resources, including: Public Health RAINN SAMHSA Mental Health Services Locator Stop It Now National Sexual Violence Resource Center Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Can Help Sexual abuse statistics prove that this problem is severe and ongoing. At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton, we know how difficult it is to come forward and pursue a case against another individual after sexual assault. Our legal team also understands the importance of having compassionate, personalized attention on your side during this difficult time. Our professional sexual abuse attorneys can help hold those who hurt you accountable for their actions. We have offices in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Reach out for your free case evaluation today.
Dram Shop Laws in Utah
Alcohol-related accidents can be traumatic, but dram shop laws in Utah offer injury victims a powerful legal option to receive compensation. Dram shop laws hold establishments responsible to properly serve alcohol. Today, we are taking a closer look at how these laws work in Utah. What is Dram Shop Liability? Dram shop liability allows a car accident victim to pursue compensation against a bar, tavern, or restaurant for providing a drunk driver with alcohol. These laws are implemented at the state level, so each gets to decide the terms surrounding alcohol-related incidents. Violations of the Dram Shop Act Section 32B-15-201 of the Utah Code specifies that a vendor is responsible for injuries and damages in a DUI accident if the drinks were served under the following circumstances: The patron is under 21 They are already under the influence of drugs or alcohol They are a known interdicted person Utah Social Host Liability Laws According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nine states, including Utah, have social host liability laws that are applicable to minors. These laws extend dram shop liability to cover social hosts who serve alcohol to minors at their own private parties. A social host cannot be held responsible for damages caused by an intoxicated adult, only a minor under age 21. A lot of elements come to play in these cases, so here is an example. Suppose Jane, a 20-year-old, attends a party hosted by her 23-year-old friend, Lucy, and liquor is served. If Jane causes an accident on the way home from the party, Lucy can be held liable by the victim that was involved in the crash. In this scenario, Jane would not be able to seek damages from Lucy, even if she was injured. Only the third-party individual can seek damages in an under-the-influence car accident. Statute of Limitations Like any other civil lawsuit, dram shop laws are controlled by a statute of limitations. This serves as a legal time limit in which someone can pursue legal action. The statute of limitations for dram shop laws in Utah is two years from the date of the incident. How a Lawyer Can Help A dram shop liability lawyer can help determine if an establishment or person breached their civil responsibility in some way that directly contributed to the accident or injury. Here are some ways this breach can occur: Serving alcohol to a patron who was already drunk Exceeding the cap amount Not requesting proof of age Serving an underage patron Providing alcohol after closing time A lawyer will work for you, protect your rights, and seek maximum compensation from all responsible parties. Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Dram shop laws in Utah allow the victims of DUI accidents to pursue compensation from every party responsible. If you or a loved one have been injured in an alcohol-related crash, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help you receive the justice you deserve. We have offices in Saratoga Springs, Orem, Provo, and West Jordan, Utah. Reach out to receive your free case evaluation today.
Causes of Accidents: Tire Blowout
Tire blowouts can happen in the blink of an eye, forcing drivers to react quickly and in a dangerous manner. If drivers are unprepared for this type of incident, they might cause more harm in the process of trying to stop their vehicle. Continue reading to learn about potential causes of tire blowouts, ways you can help prevent this from occurring, and how to stay safe if you find yourself in this situation. What Are Tire Blowout Accidents? Tire blowout accidents occur when a tire is damaged severely enough that it loses all of its air at once. This immediately makes the vehicle difficult to control. Drivers may jerk and swerve, slam on their brakes, or struggle to move safely to the side of the road. In all cases, a blown out tire makes it nearly impossible to continue driving safely. Causes of Tire Blowouts Since tire blowouts usually happen in a flash, most drivers have no warning beforehand. These kind of flats can occur for a variety of reasons, including: Potholes Over or under inflated tires Debris on the road Overloading the vehicle Small puncture damage that grows Uneven tire wear Driving on expired tires Manufacturing defects How to Prevent Tire Blowouts According to the NHTSA, there were 738 traffic fatalities in 2017 from tire-related crashes. To protect yourself from harm, you must have the tools necessary to avoid these types of accidents. Only 19 percent of consumers properly check and inflate their tires, so here are a few ways you can be more “TireWise” as recommended by the NHTSA: Regularly check your tire pressure Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles Frequently check your tires for wear and tear and replace them when needed Drive safely and keep your attention on the road at all times Avoid road hazards that could damage your tires Slow down as you travel over potholes If your tire blows out, do not slam on your brakes. Steer toward the side of the road and slow down cautiously. Steps to Take After an Accident If you are involved in a tire-related accident, there are steps you should take to ensure your safety. Do not leave the scene of the accident. Call 911. Talk to witnesses. Take pictures of the damage. Contact your insurance company. Seek medical attention. Evaluate the tire and determine the cause of why it blew out. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Can Help You Receive Compensation If you are involved in an accident due to a tire blowout, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is here to help. Our goal is to provide tailored, client-centric legal solutions. We work closely with our clients to ensure they receive a positive outcome to their case. We know how stressful an accident can be, so we will do what we can to help you rebuild your life. Our offices are located in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us to set up your free case evaluation today.