At its core, wrongful death is a legal term that refers to a death caused by the negligence or intentional actions of another party. In order for a wrongful death claim to be successful, it must be proven that the defendant's actions were the direct cause of the victim's death.
According to the National Safety Council, accidental injury is the third leading cause of death in the United States, with over 169,000 deaths reported in 2017 alone. Many of these fatalities could have been avoided if not for the negligent or reckless behavior of another person or entity.
Wrongful death cases can arise from a variety of situations, including medical malpractice, product defects, and automobile accidents. In some cases, they may also involve intentional acts, such as assault or murder.
At our firm, we understand the devastating impact that a wrongful death can have on a family. Our team of professionals is dedicated to helping our clients seek justice and compensation for their losses. We believe that holding those responsible accountable for their actions is not only important for our clients, but also for the safety of our community as a whole.
Definition of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death is a legal term used to describe a situation where someone has died due to the negligence or intentional act of another person or entity. This can include accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, and even criminal activity. In the United States, an estimated 125,000 people die each year due to preventable medical errors alone.
A wrongful death lawsuit can be brought by the surviving family members of the deceased individual in order to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, and loss of companionship. While no amount of money can bring a loved one back, it can help provide some financial relief and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
Navigating the legal process of a wrongful death lawsuit can be overwhelming and emotional. That's why it's important to have a team of experienced professionals on your side to help guide you through the process. Our team of wrongful death lawyers are dedicated to fighting for justice for our clients and their loved ones.
Elements of Wrongful Death
When it comes to wrongful death cases, there are several elements that need to be present for a successful claim. First, the death must have been caused by the negligence or intentional actions of another party. This can include actions such as drunk driving, medical malpractice, or workplace accidents.
Second, the surviving family members must have suffered financial losses as a result of the death. This can include medical bills, funeral expenses, and loss of income or support.
Finally, the claim must be filed within a specific time frame, known as the statute of limitations. In California, this is generally two years from the date of the death.
Navigating a wrongful death case can be incredibly complex and emotional. That's why it's important to work with a team of experienced professionals who can guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.