Chiropractors must be held accountable for sexually abusing innocent people. These doctors owe their patients a duty of care, and they face serious consequences for any kind of unwanted sexual touching. If you were abused, you are not alone, and there are legal professionals waiting to assist you. Contact an experienced San Francisco chiropractor sexual abuse lawyer, and you can take decisive legal action against not only abusers but also the healthcare facilities who employ them. How does a lawsuit of this nature work?
Do Sexual Abuse Laws Apply to Chiropractors?
Yes, chiropractors are subject to the same sexual abuse laws as any other treatment provider in California. Although there is some debate in the medical community as to whether chiropractors are “real doctors,” it is a moot point in regard to sexual abuse. As far as the law is concerned, chiropractors provide treatment to patients, and they can abuse this position of trust in the exact same way as a physician.
Perhaps most notably, a chiropractor is required to place their hands on the patient while providing treatment. This creates a higher potential for abuse when compared to many other treatment providers, such as radiologists or psychologists.
What are Some Examples of Chiropractor Sexual Abuse?
Chiropractor sexual abuse may occur in various ways. Perhaps the most obvious example is a chiropractor who insists you take off your clothes, since there is no real legitimate reason to disrobe for most chiro appointments. The only real exception is during an X-ray, as it may be necessary to wear a medical gown during this process. However, many chiropractors only need to X-ray the neck area, so it all depends on their specific technique.
In any case, you should not have to take off your clothes during appointments after the initial x-ray. Some chiropractors may claim that you are wearing clothing that interferes with their treatment in an effort to force you to take off your clothes, but this could be a form of abuse. To discuss the specifics of your situation, consider a consultation with a lawyer.
Another example involves unwanted touching of your body. Chiropractors generally need to touch you in order to manipulate the spine, but you should not be subjected to any groping in your private areas. If a chiropractor tries to convince you that they need to insert their fingers or other objects into your body, this is a clear form of sexual abuse.
A common issue for some women is back pain caused by larger breasts. These women may visit chiropractors in order to address their posture and rounded shoulders. While chiropractic treatment is a legitimate way to solve these musculoskeletal problems, your chiropractor does not need to touch your breast tissue in order to provide treatment. The manipulation should only involve your spine, and your back problems do not give chiropractors an excuse to grope your breasts.
Of course, some forms of abuse may have little or no physical contact. For example, your chiropractor may have sent you explicit text messages or images. Dating relationships between patients and doctors are generally frowned upon.
Can You Hold Healthcare Facilities Accountable for Abusive Chiropractors?
While you can certainly sue the chiropractor directly for your abuse, you might also be able to sue their employer. This is often a healthcare facility of some kind, and they may be liable for the abuse you have experienced. Facilities may face serious questions if they knowingly hired a chiropractor who had abused patients in the past.
Often, these facilities have considerable insurance policies against various lawsuits – including sexual abuse lawsuits. It may be possible to pursue a financial settlement with the insurance company without going to court. This could be an attractive option for some patients, especially if they feel embarrassed about telling their story in a public courtroom. For more guidance, speak with a lawyer.
Can a Sexual Abuse Attorney in San Francisco Help Me?
A chiropractor sexual abuse attorney in San Francisco may be able to help you strive for justice and closure. Although it might be difficult to take the first step toward legal action, you are not alone in this process. A consultation provides an opportunity to discuss your legal options in a respectful, dignified environment. A lawsuit can provide considerable compensation for everything you have been forced to endure, including both economic and non-economic damages. Reach out to Mary Alexander & Associates today, speak with our experienced lawyers, and get started with an action plan.
