Wrongful death claims are similar to personal injury lawsuits in many ways except that they are brought when a person is killed and not just injured in an accident as a result of the negligence or intentional actions of another party. These claims seek justice and compensation for the deceased person’s family members who have suffered emotional and financial losses. Wrongful death claims can hold responsible parties accountable for their actions and help deter similar incidents from occurring in the future. These claims promote safety and accountability within society.
If you believe that you lost a loved one due to the preventable action (or inaction) of another party – whether that be a drunk driver, a negligent medical provider, a careless property owner, or a greedy company – a wrongful death claim may be an option. Contact an experienced, local wrongful death attorney to discuss your circumstances and legal rights.
5 Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death Claims
The most common types of wrongful death claims include:
- Automobile Accidents
Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are the number one cause of wrongful death claims in the U.S. The behaviors that most often lead to wrongful death claims are reckless driving, drunk driving, distracted and aggressive driving.
- Medical Malpractice
A medical malpractice claim for wrongful death occurs when a healthcare professional’s negligent actions or failure to provide proper care leads to a patient’s death. Examples include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication errors, or failure to diagnose a serious condition.
- Workplace Accidents
Fatal accidents in the workplace can lead to wrongful death claims, especially in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or transportation. These accidents may result from unsafe working conditions, lack of proper training, or failure to follow safety protocols.
- Defective Products
If a defective product causes someone’s death, such as a faulty vehicle part, defective medical device, or hazardous consumer product, the manufacturer, distributor, or seller may be held liable for wrongful death.
- Premises Liability
Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises for visitors. Wrongful death claims can arise from incidents such as slip and fall accidents, drowning in a poorly maintained pool, or assaults due to inadequate security on the property.
How Can a Wrongful Death Lawyer Help?
A wrongful death lawyer plays a crucial role in assisting with a wrongful death claim by providing legal expertise, guidance, and advocacy to the surviving family members.
- A wrongful death lawyer helps navigate the complex legal process involved in filing a wrongful death claim. The lawyer will ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and within the statute of limitations.
- A wrongful death lawyer investigates the circumstances surrounding the death. The lawyer will gather evidence to establish liability and demonstrate the negligence or wrongdoing of the responsible party.
- A wrongful death lawyer accurately assesses the damages suffered by the surviving family members. Expenses include medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
Ultimately, a wrongful death lawyer serves as a compassionate advocate for their clients, fighting for justice and ensuring that they receive the compensation and closure.
Seek the help of a wrongful death attorney
If you lost a loved one due to a preventable medical error or the reckless/negligent behavior of another, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced wrongful death attorney fight for justice on your behalf. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a wrongful death lawyer. Call the most experienced practicing wrongful death attorneys Bellingham has at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing grieving family members in Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
