Losing a loved one is a difficult and traumatic experience that can leave a lasting impact on the family. However, if the death was caused by someone else's negligence or intentional act, it can be even more devastating. This is where wrongful death comes into play.
Wrongful death is a legal term used to describe a situation where a person's death is caused by the fault or negligence of another person or entity. Examples of wrongful death include car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and criminal activities. In the United States, there are approximately 400,000 deaths due to medical errors each year, making it the third leading cause of death.
Wrongful death cases can be complex and emotionally charged, which is why it is important to seek the help of experienced professionals. Our team of wrongful death lawyers understands the pain and suffering that comes with such cases and is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. We work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve for their loss.
Definition of Wrongful Death
At its core, wrongful death refers to the untimely passing of an individual caused by the negligence or wrongful action of another party. This can occur in a variety of settings, from car accidents to medical malpractice cases. In the United States, wrongful deaths are unfortunately not uncommon. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were more than 169,000 unintentional injury deaths in 2017 alone.
Wrongful death cases can be complicated and emotional, as they involve not only legal considerations but also the loss of a loved one. As one expert notes, "Wrongful death lawsuits are unique in that they seek to compensate a family for the loss of a loved one, rather than simply awarding damages for injuries sustained by the individual." For this reason, it's important to work with professionals who not only understand the intricacies of the law but also have the compassion and empathy to guide families through the process.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
When a loved one dies due to someone else's negligence or intentional act, the family members left behind may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit seeks to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and provide compensation to the family for their loss.
In California, those who can file a wrongful death lawsuit include the deceased person's surviving spouse, children, and other dependents. If the deceased person had no spouse, children, or dependents, then their parents or siblings may be able to file the lawsuit.
It's important to note that there is a statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in California. Generally, the lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of the deceased person's death.
If you believe that your loved one's death was caused by someone else's negligence or intentional act, it's important to speak with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you understand your legal rights and options and guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit.