The loss of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a person can go through, especially when someone else’s carelessness causes that death. This is known as a “wrongful death.” If you find yourself in this heartbreaking situation, our team is here to provide caring support and helpful information during this difficult time.
You may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. This can provide a sense of justice and hold the responsible party accountable. It can also ease the financial burden that often comes with an unexpected loss.
To help you better understand what qualifies as a wrongful death, let’s go over some of the most common causes of wrongful death. If any of these scenarios sound similar to what happened to your loved one, please reach out to our caring team to learn more about your legal options. We are here to help in any way we can.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice is one of the most common wrongful death examples in the United States. This occurs when a healthcare provider fails to provide an acceptable standard of care, which results in a patient’s death.
If you suspect your loved one died due to medical negligence, know that you have the right to hold the doctor, hospital, or other parties responsible. Medical malpractice wrongful death cases can be complex, but our team can guide you through the process and connect you with experienced attorneys. You should not have to deal with this alone.
Car and Truck Accidents
Tragically, fatal car and truck accidents are an everyday occurrence across the country. When a crash is caused by negligent or reckless driving behaviors, the at-fault driver can be held liable through a wrongful death lawsuit. This applies whether the deceased was another driver, passenger, motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian.
Some common examples of negligent driving that can lead to fatal wrecks include:
- Distracted driving, like texting or eating behind the wheel
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Excessive speeding or aggressive driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Unsafe lane changes
- Fatigued driving, especially among truck drivers
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Tailgating or following too closely
Losing a family member in a sudden car accident is utterly devastating. The shock and grief can feel overwhelming. While taking legal action may be the last thing on your mind, it is important to explore this option as you may be entitled to significant compensation. The at-fault driver’s insurance company should be held accountable. Let our compassionate team provide the support and guidance you need during this painful time.
Workplace Accidents
While some occupations are more dangerous than others, a fatal accident can happen in any type of workplace. When an employee dies on the job, the surviving family members are usually entitled to workers’ compensation death benefits.
However, there are situations where you may also be able to file a wrongful death claim for greater compensation.
This may be an option if your loved one’s death was caused by:
- Defective equipment or machinery
- Toxic substance exposure
- Explosions or fires
- Falls from heights
- Trench or building collapses
- Employer-sanctioned transportation vehicle accidents
For example, say your spouse worked in construction and was killed when scaffolding collapsed due to known defects or poor installation. In this case, you may be able to sue the manufacturer or contractor in addition to collecting workers’ comp. A wrongful death lawsuit would allow you to recover damages not available in a workers’ comp claim, like pain and suffering and loss of companionship.
Workplace wrongful death claims are often challenging and require exploring multiple avenues of compensation.
Defective Products
We use countless consumer products each and every day. When one of those products has a defect that causes fatal injuries, the manufacturer, retailer, or distributor can potentially be held liable through a wrongful death lawsuit. This area of law is known as product liability.
No matter how your loved one came into contact with the defective product – as a consumer, bystander, or even employee – you may still have grounds for a claim if the death can be linked to one of the following:
- Design defects: The product was inherently dangerous based on its design, even if made correctly according to specifications.
- Manufacturing defects: The product became unsafe during production due to an error or substandard materials.
- Warning and labeling defects: The product had inadequate safety warnings or instructions for proper use.
Trust Our Care Team
Wrongful death lawsuits serve a vital purpose – to provide justice and compensation to grieving families while deterring future negligent acts. While taking legal action may feel overwhelming right now, know that you do not have to go through the process alone.
At Wrongful Death Lawyer, we understand the profound heartbreak and challenges you are facing.
Our mission is to be a source of compassion, support, and trustworthy guidance. When you are ready, give us a call or fill out our online form. One of our Care Team members will reach out to learn more about your situation and provide helpful information on what to do next.
Let us help you explore your legal options, protect your rights, and work toward holding the responsible parties accountable.
You do not have to carry this burden on your own. We are here for you.