The Takoma Park hospital in Maryland has been sued for wrongful death in a case involving a man who died under their care in 2006. The staff couldn’t find the key to his locked bathroom, leading to his death.
Jose R. Valladares was admitted to the hospital for chest pain in the spring of 2006. Several days later, Valladares went to the bathroom in his room and locked the door. While in the bathroom, his heart monitor indicated that his heart rate was slowing. None of the staff on his floor had a key to the locked bathroom, and Valladares’ condition continued to deteriorate as he remained locked inside.
A hospital employee called 911 and asked for help. Minutes later, the bathroom door was broken down by local fire and EMS crews, but Valladares had already died.
His family is suing the hospital for wrongful death. They are claiming that the staff failed to provide a safe environment for Valladares in a medical emergency. They are asking for $30,000 in damages to cover their loss.
Shortly following the incident, the hospital got rid of all the locks on bathroom doors and distributed more keys to their staff for other doors that still have locks on them.
If your loved one has been the victim of a wrongful death case, it is important to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you receive proper compensation for your losses.
If you have a wrongful death claim in the Washington, D.C. area, please contact the law offices of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. today to schedule an initial consultation.
