Wrongful Death Lawyer
Our wrongful death lawyer will share that the connotation associated with wrongful death claims is a tragic and sudden event involving the loss of a loved one, an accident resulting from another party’s negligence that may have been preventable. Whether it’s the result of negligence, medical malpractice, or even a product defect, the untimely passing of a loved one is never easy to handle. However, our team from Ward & Ward Law Firm wants families to know that understanding the most common reasons for wrongful death can help them to take appropriate legal action. The following outlines common causes of wrongful death accidents and what to do if you are a family member left to determine the most appropriate path forward.
Medical Malpractice: Unfortunately, medical professionals sometimes make errors that have serious consequences. Misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, failure to diagnose, or incorrect medication dosage are common causes of wrongful death under medical malpractice. If a loved one has died due to medical negligence, you should seek legal advice immediately.
Automobile Accidents: Many wrongful deaths result from car, motorcycle, or truck accidents. They often occur due to negligence, such as drunk driving, reckless driving, or failing to adhere to traffic laws. A wrongful death claim can be pursued if another party’s negligence leads to a fatal accident.
Workplace Accidents: Particularly in industries like construction or manufacturing, the risk of fatal accidents is high due to equipment failure, inadequate training, or failure to enforce safety measures. If an employer doesn’t provide a safe working environment, they may be held liable for any deaths that happen in the workplace.
Product Liability: If a product is defectively designed, manufactured, or lacks proper safety warnings, it can result in fatal accidents. Companies can be held accountable for wrongful deaths caused by their faulty products.
Criminal Activities: Sadly, illegal activities can lead to wrongful death. Victims of violent crimes or even indirect victims (like those hit by a stray bullet) can seek justice through wrongful death lawsuits alongside criminal proceedings.
Understanding what to do next:
Seek Legal Counsel: If you suspect a loved one’s death was wrongful, your first step should be to consult with a wrongful death lawyer. They will help the family understand their legal rights and guide them through the process.
Investigate and Document: Gather all relevant information surrounding the incident. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other evidence supporting your claim. This will be crucial in seeking damages and proving the claim.
File a Claim: Once you have gathered your evidence and consulted with an attorney, it’s time to file your wrongful death claim. The claim should specify how the defendant’s negligence or recklessness led to the death of your loved one.
Prepare for Trial: Your case may go to trial if a settlement can’t be reached. At this point, you must present your evidence and argue your case before a judge or jury.
The sudden and untimely death of a loved one is a harrowing experience. The pain is often coupled with a burning desire for justice when it’s the result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. While nothing can truly make up for the loss of a loved one, understanding the common causes of wrongful death and the steps to take afterward can provide a roadmap toward closure and justice. Remember, seeking professional legal counsel is essential to navigating the complexities of wrongful death claims. They will provide the guidance and support necessary to hold the responsible party accountable.
