A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal claim that seeks compensation for the death of a person caused by the negligence or intentional harm of another. These lawsuits can arise from a variety of situations, including car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and more. In the United States, wrongful death claims are subject to state laws, which vary in terms of the types of damages that can be recovered and who can bring a claim.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were approximately 170,000 deaths due to unintentional injuries in the United States in 2017. Of those, 39,404 were motor vehicle deaths and 2,813 were due to medical malpractice. While no amount of money can bring a loved one back, a successful wrongful death lawsuit can help provide financial security for the deceased's family and hold the responsible party accountable.
Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming during a time of grief, which is why it's important to work with experienced professionals who can guide you through the process. Our team of wrongful death lawyers is dedicated to helping families in Montrose and the surrounding areas seek justice for their loved ones.
What Constitutes Wrongful Death?
When someone dies due to the negligence or intentional actions of another person or entity, it may be classified as wrongful death. This could include situations such as a car accident caused by a drunk driver, medical malpractice, or even a defective product. In the United States, wrongful deaths account for approximately 4.8 deaths per 100,000 people.
It is important to note that not all deaths can be classified as wrongful death. To be considered as such, the death must have been caused by the actions or inactions of another party that failed to fulfill their duty of care.
In order to pursue a wrongful death claim, the deceased person's family or estate must show that there was a duty of care owed to the deceased, that this duty was breached, and that the breach of duty directly caused the person's death. It is a complex legal process that requires the expertise of a qualified wrongful death lawyer.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with the legal repercussions can be overwhelming. Our team of professionals understands the emotional toll of wrongful death cases and is here to help guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
If someone you love has passed away due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another person or entity, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit seeks to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and provide compensation for the damages suffered by the surviving family members.
The specific rules regarding who can file a wrongful death lawsuit vary by state, but generally, it is the surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased who have the right to file. In some cases, other relatives or dependents may also be eligible to file.
It's important to note that wrongful death lawsuits are not criminal cases and do not result in jail time for the responsible party. However, they can provide financial compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages.
Navigating the legal process of a wrongful death lawsuit can be complex and emotional, which is why it's important to have the guidance of experienced professionals. Our team of wrongful death lawyers is dedicated to helping clients seek justice for their loved ones and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.