Bedsores—also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers—are among the most common and preventable injuries in California nursing homes. When left untreated, they can lead to severe infection, tissue necrosis, and even death. In legal terms, bedsores are often considered “never events,” meaning they should not occur in facilities that provide adequate care. As a result, lawsuits involving bedsores frequently result in substantial settlements, especially when gross negligence or wrongful death is involved.
This article examines the top bedsore lawsuit settlements in California, the factors that influence compensation, and what families should know when pursuing legal action.
Understanding Bedsore Liability in California
Under California law, nursing homes and long-term care facilities have a duty to prevent bedsores through proper monitoring, repositioning, nutrition, and hygiene. When they fail to meet this standard of care, they may be held liable for:
- Negligence
- Elder abuse (California Welfare and Institutions Code § 15657)
- Medical malpractice
- Wrongful death (California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60)
Facilities may also face regulatory citations from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and federal agencies.
Bedsore Severity and Legal Impact
Bedsores are classified into four stages:
- Stage I: Redness and irritation without skin loss
- Stage II: Partial skin loss with blistering or shallow wounds
- Stage III: Full-thickness skin loss with damage to underlying tissue
- Stage IV: Extensive tissue loss involving muscle, bone, or supporting structures
Stage III and IV bedsores are considered serious medical conditions and often trigger litigation. The more advanced the ulcer, the greater the likelihood of significant damages.
Notable Bedsore Lawsuit Settlements in California
While many settlements are confidential, several high-profile cases have been publicly reported:
$7.75 Million – Los Angeles County
A nursing home resident developed multiple Stage IV pressure ulcers that became infected and led to sepsis. The facility failed to reposition the patient, monitor skin integrity, or provide wound care. The jury awarded $7.75 million, including punitive damages for gross negligence.
$4.2 Million – San Diego
A 79-year-old woman died from complications related to untreated bedsores. Her family sued the facility for elder abuse and wrongful death. The case settled for $4.2 million after evidence showed falsified care logs and chronic understaffing.
$3.5 Million – Sacramento
A man with limited mobility developed a Stage IV ulcer on his lower back that exposed bone and required multiple surgeries. The facility had prior citations for similar incidents. The settlement included compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and future care.
$2.1 Million – Riverside County
A resident with dementia suffered from severe bedsores that led to amputation of a limb. The lawsuit alleged that staff ignored repositioning protocols and failed to notify physicians. The case settled before trial.
$1.6 Million – Orange County
A woman developed a Stage III ulcer while recovering from hip surgery in a skilled nursing facility. The wound became infected, and she required long-term wound care. The settlement covered medical costs and emotional distress.
Factors That Influence Settlement Amounts
Several variables affect the value of a bedsore lawsuit:
1. Severity of Injury
Stage IV ulcers, infections, amputations, and death result in higher compensation than minor wounds.
2. Evidence of Negligence
Clear documentation of neglect—such as missed repositioning logs, falsified records, or ignored physician orders—strengthens the case.
3. Facility History
Facilities with prior citations or a pattern of abuse may face larger punitive damages.
4. Impact on Quality of Life
Long-term disability, disfigurement, and emotional trauma increase non-economic damages.
5. Insurance Coverage
The facility’s liability insurance limits may cap the settlement amount, unless punitive damages are awarded.
Average Bedsore Settlement Values
According to recent legal data:
- Claims against individual providers average around $400,000
- Claims against hospitals range from $1.5 to $2.5 million
- Claims against nursing homes range from $4 to $7.75 million
These figures reflect both jury verdicts and pre-trial settlements. Most cases settle out of court to avoid public scrutiny and legal costs.
Legal Process for Filing a Bedsore Lawsuit
Families pursuing a bedsore claim in California should:
- Document the injury: Take photos, obtain medical records, and request care logs.
- Report the incident: File complaints with CDPH and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
- Consult an attorney: Choose a nursing home abuse lawyer experienced in elder abuse and medical negligence.
- File a civil complaint: Outline the allegations and damages sought.
- Engage in discovery: Exchange evidence and take depositions.
- Negotiate settlement or proceed to trial: Most cases resolve before trial, but litigation may be necessary.
Statute of Limitations
In California, the statute of limitations for elder abuse and personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury or discovery. For wrongful death, the limit is two years from the date of death. Exceptions may apply for delayed discovery or incapacitated victims.
Final Thoughts
Bedsore lawsuits in California reflect the serious consequences of neglect in long-term care settings. When facilities fail to provide basic care, residents suffer—and families have the right to seek justice. High-value settlements send a clear message: preventable injuries will not be tolerated.
If your loved one has developed a pressure ulcer in a nursing home, act quickly. Document the injury, report the abuse, and consult legal counsel. Compensation can help cover medical costs, improve care, and hold negligent providers accountable.
References
- California Welfare and Institutions Code § 15657. (n.d.). Civil actions for elder abuse.
- California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60. (n.d.). Wrongful death actions.
- Berman & Riedel LLP. (2021, November 25). Average bedsore settlement for nursing home negligence.
- Silva Injury Law. (2022, August 16). How much is a bedsore lawsuit worth in California?
- Nursing Home Truth. (2025, May 3). Pressure ulcer lawsuit settlement values.