Can You Sue a Physical Rehabilitation Center for Negligence?

By David M. Schloss
Attorney

Physical rehabilitation centers are meant to support people recovering from injuries, surgeries, or other physical setbacks. These facilities play a critical role in the healing process. However, when a physical rehab center fails in its duty of care—resulting in further injury—patients may understandably wonder if legal action is possible.e.

When Physical Rehabilitation Turns Harmful

Research shows that up to 29% of patients in physical rehab centers may suffer harm due to preventable incidents such as medication errors, bedsores, or falls. These cases often stem from negligence—either by the facility itself or by staff members failing to follow proper medical protocol.

At Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP, we represent individuals in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia who were injured while under the care of physical rehabilitation facilities. These institutions owe a legal duty of care to their patients—and when they fail in that duty, legal action may be warranted.

When Can You Sue a Physical Rehabilitation Facility for Negligence?

Rehab centers have a legal duty of care to the patients they agree to serve. When the facility or its staff members violate that duty through negligence, you have the right to file a claim for compensation or even pursue further legal action.

Common reasons for which you can sue a rehab facility for negligence include:

  • You sustained an injury due to the treatment provided.
  • You sustained an injury that staff members were able to prevent.
  • Staff members injured you through direct action or lack of action.

Examples of Negligence at Physical Rehab Facilities

You may have a viable claim if:

  • You were injured as a result of inadequate or improper treatment
  • Staff failed to monitor or assist you when needed
  • The facility caused or worsened your condition through inaction or negligence

Proving Negligence in a Physical Rehab Center

To file a successful malpractice claim, you must prove:

  • A duty of care existed between you and the facility
  • That duty was breached through negligent actions (or inaction)
  • You suffered actual harm as a result
  • There is a direct link between the breach and your injury

Medical records, facility reports, and witness statements all play a role in establishing this connection. Our team can help you determine if the evidence supports a strong claim.n sue a rehab facility for negligence successfully with the evidence available to you.

What Can a Personal Injury Attorney Do for You?

A couple shakes hands with their attorney who is helping to file a suit for a rehab facility demonstrating negligence.

Working with a Washington, D.C., personal injury attorney at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP, can make all the difference when you are tackling a medical malpractice claim. Your lawyer from our firm can conduct a thorough investigation and present compelling evidence during settlement negotiations. If you decide to sue the rehab facility for its staff’s negligence, you can choose us to represent you in the courtroom.

We do not charge for your initial consultation with our firm. You will not have to pay any fees unless we succeed in securing the compensation owed to you.

How Our Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help

Our attorneys are experienced in handling claims against physical rehab centers, including injuries due to neglect, improper care plans, and understaffing. We offer free consultations, and you won’t owe us anything unless we secure compensation on your behalf.

Have Questions About a Physical Rehabilitation Injury?

If you were injured in a physical rehabilitation facility, reach out to Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP. We’ll review your case and help you determine your legal options.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

About the Author
David M. Schloss is an injury attorney and partner in the law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP. He joined the law firm in 1987 and has earned a reputation as one of the leading personal injury and workers’ compensation attorneys in the District of Columbia.