If the careless, negligent or reckless actions of another person caused someone you love to die, then you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. These cases are legally complex, but an injury attorney can help you gather evidence, handle settlement negotiations, and litigate your case if it goes to trial.
Car accidents cause more wrongful deaths than any other hazard, but defective products, incorrect prescriptions and other factors can also lead to claims. Unfortunately, the families of victims often face insurmountable debt – especially if the deceased was a primary source of income.
Five common causes of wrongful deaths:
- Medical Malpractice
All medical professionals must provide patients with a reasonable standard of care. Unfortunately, doctors, nurses and other health-care providers can make mistakes.
Every year, thousands of Americans die because of medical malpractice. When medical personnel provide substandard care or neglect their duties, it often results in further injury or death. Here are some examples of malpractice in the medical industry:
- Birth injuries;
- Surgical errors;
- Prescribing the wrong medications;
- Misdiagnosis;
- Delayed diagnosis;
- Nursing home neglect or abuse;
- And anesthesia mistakes.
- Car Accidents
Car accidents are responsible for more than 40,000 American deaths every year. As a result, liable parties often face lawsuits. Surviving family members or loved ones can pursue compensation from all at-fault parties; these may include the driver, vehicle manufacturer or vehicle owner.
- Defective Products
Laws are in place to protect consumers from defective products, but there is still an alarming rate of wrongful death cases related to product malfunctions. Manufacturers, designers, distributors and retailers may be liable for any harmful products they produce or sell.
- Workplace Accidents
An overwhelming number of wrongful death cases are the results of preventable job-related accidents. People working in hazardous environments may be exposed to toxic chemicals and heavy machinery.
Falls, burns and explosions are common. Mines, manufacturing plants and construction sites have high mortality rates compared to other fields
- Truck Accidents
Due to their sheer size and weight, truck accidents are often fatal. If the collision happened because the driver or vehicle owner failed to follow regulations, such as driving within certain weight limits, then you may be able to file a lawsuit for damages.