Have you experienced a recent unexpected death in the family? Do you suspect (or even know) that someone else is at fault?
You might have a wrongful death on your hands. This is a stressful time for you and your loved ones, but if you want to seek damages, it’s best to act quickly.
Keep reading to learn the wrongful death definition and if your situation qualifies for a potential wrongful death lawsuit.
Table of Contents
What Is the Wrongful Death Definition?
Before you consider suing someone for wrongful death, you want to make sure that you know what you’re talking about. You need to know what it is first.
A wrongful death lawsuit happens when the actions of the defendant have resulted in the death of the victim. This is regardless of whether the death was intentional or unintentional. The deaths are often due to negligence, but they can also be malicious.
What Qualifies as Wrongful Death?
There are plenty of things that fit under the “wrongful death” umbrella. These are a few examples, but it’s always best to talk to a wrongful death lawyer if you’re unsure whether you have a qualifying case.
Wrongful Death Examples
Medical malpractice cases are common for wrongful deaths. When someone goes into the hospital or pharmacy for treatment and end up dying as a result of professional negligence, the medical professionals involved are held accountable.
Proving medical malpractice isn’t always easy. This is when a good lawyer comes into play.
Automobile accidents can also cause wrongful deaths. The burden isn’t always placed on the person driving the offending car, though this is the most common situation. If someone was driving recklessly, they’ll be considered responsible for the death.
It’s also possible that the car manufacturer or another driver is held responsible. There are many variables that go into automobile accidents.
If someone has an aggressive dog that kills the victim, the owner of the dog is going to be liable for wrongful death. While the owner isn’t responsible for the death, they displayed negligence by not restraining their dog. There are exceptions to this. If the victim was provoking the dog or trespassing, then the case may not be viable.
Accidents on private property can also result in wrongful deaths. You’re probably familiar with caution signs in stores that warn of wet floors or dangerous items. These are there for liability.
What if someone slips and falls (and dies as a result) in a building and the fall was due to hazards left negligently in the open? The survivors may have a case against the owners of the establishment.
Wrongful Death Definition and More
If you’re confident in the wrongful death definition and the different things that qualify, it might be time for you to contact an attorney. It’s time to get justice for your loved one and receive the damages that you deserve.
Don’t hesitate. Time is of the essence.
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