When a family member passes away due to the negligence of another individual, a wrongful death lawsuit comes into being. The beneficiaries or surviving dependents could possibly be entitled to compensation resulting from the wrongful actions of the defendant. (*view source below)
However, it is incumbent upon the survivors to prove the individual is liable. To do this the survivors have to establish the person they hold liable had a responsibility to behave in a certain way, and that a death was caused because of the failure of the individual to exercise proper care. Essential to this process is an attorney who is knowledgeable in the section of law that deals with wrongful death.
How to decide if you require a wrongful death attorney:
There is a possibility you have a claim if a loved one was killed accidentally. Determine if the death was the result of …show more content…
These include reckless driving, auto accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, product liability, defective products, workplace accidents, truck accidents, mistaken identity, unsafe premises and negligence or inaction.
Knowing what caused the death can assist families during the healing process by offering closure. If the person liable is not criminally charged, the family may still hold the individual responsible for their wrongdoings.
Who initiates the wrongful death claim and what compensation is due?
Even though money will never make up for the loss of a loved one, the compensation received can greatly relieve some of the burden of financial loss the family suffers. Statutes differ between states, but generally only the children and spouse of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. In some states distant relatives, such as grandparents, stepparents, and siblings are allowed to file a