Wrongful death refers to the unfortunate and untimely death of a person caused by the negligence, carelessness, or reckless actions of another person or entity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 170,000 deaths occur each year in the United States due to unintentional injuries alone. Many of these deaths could have been prevented if proper care and attention were exercised.
In such cases, the surviving family members or dependents of the deceased may be entitled to compensation for the loss they have suffered. Wrongful death cases are complex legal matters that require the expertise of a wrongful death lawyer. Our team of professionals has extensive experience in handling such cases and can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.
If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of another, we understand how devastating and overwhelming it can be. Our goal is to help you navigate the legal process and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. We believe that every family deserves justice and will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Definition of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death is a legal term used to describe a death caused by the negligence or intentional harm of another party. In other words, it is a death that could have been prevented if someone had acted differently. Wrongful death can occur in a variety of situations such as car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and more.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 167,127 unintentional injury deaths in the United States in 2018. Of those deaths, 39,404 were caused by motor vehicle accidents and 48,344 were caused by falls. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding wrongful death and the need for legal representation in such cases.
Wrongful death cases can be emotionally and legally complex. It is important to have a team of professionals who understand the laws and can help navigate the legal system. As one expert states, "Wrongful death cases require a high level of expertise and compassion. It is important to work with a lawyer who can help you get the compensation you deserve while also being sensitive to your emotional needs."
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
When a loved one dies due to someone else's negligence, it can be a devastating experience. In such situations, filing a wrongful death lawsuit may be an option. However, not everyone is eligible to file such a lawsuit. The laws vary by state, but typically, only certain family members or the deceased person's estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit.
In California, the deceased person's spouse, domestic partner, children, or grandchildren can file a lawsuit. If none of these people are alive, then anyone who would inherit from the deceased person's estate can file the lawsuit. It's important to note that only one wrongful death lawsuit can be filed, and it must be filed within two years of the person's death.
Wrongful death lawsuits can provide financial compensation for the deceased person's family, including for lost income, medical bills, funeral expenses, and other losses. However, the emotional toll of losing a loved one can never be fully compensated. Our team of professionals understands the complexities of wrongful death lawsuits and can help guide you through the legal process to ensure your family receives the justice they deserve.