Daycare Cases

When families place loved ones in adult day care or long-term care programs, they expect a safe environment and proper supervision. A recent federal audit shows that Maryland inspectors failed to identify serious hazards in adult day care centers, raising alarms about whether similar problems also affect nursing homes. If your family member suffers harm in one of these facilities, you may have legal grounds to pursue a claim with the help of an attorney.

Oversight Gaps Put Patients at Risk

The audit by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reviewed 20 adult day care centers across Maryland. Investigators found dangerous conditions, including exposed wires, unsecured exits, toxic chemicals stored in unlocked cabinets, broken bathrooms, and even dirty kitchens where meals were prepared. These hazards were not cited adequately during state inspections, leaving vulnerable participants exposed to avoidable risks.

Recently, a state appellate court issued a written opinion in a personal injury case brought by the family of an infant who was beaten to death by a nanny. The case was filed against the nanny, as well as the daycare centers that previously employed the nanny. The court was tasked with determining whether the daycare centers that previously employed the nanny could be held liable for the nanny’s criminal conduct.

The case is important to Maryland personal injury victims, including victims of nursing home abuse and neglect, since it illustrates the outer limits of the liability of a facility – whether daycare or nursing home – for former employees.

The Facts of the Case

The plaintiffs found a nanny on a child-care website to watch their infant son. The plaintiffs ran a background check on the nanny, and after finding that there had been no reports, they hired the nanny. About a month after the nanny started watching the plaintiff’s son, they discovered that she had beaten the young boy badly. He later died from the injuries he sustained.

Articles Posted in Daycare Cases

Maryland Audit Exposes Oversight Failures That Endanger Vulnerable Adults

Oversight Gaps Put Patients at Risk

Court Finds Daycare Was Not Responsible for Criminal Acts of Employees