Maryland Wrongful Death Attorneys

Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

At Wilson & Parlett, we handle a wide variety of wrongful death cases. Our team is experienced in representing families who have lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. Here are some of the most common types of wrongful death cases we handle:

• Car Accidents
  Car accidents are one of the leading causes of wrongful death. Whether the crash is caused by a distracted driver, speeding, or other forms of negligence, we can help families seek justice.
• Truck Accidents
  Truck accidents often result in devastating injuries and fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. We handle cases involving trucking company negligence, driver fatigue, and unsafe driving practices.
• Medical Malpractice
  When medical professionals fail to provide the standard of care, it can lead to wrongful death. We assist families in cases involving misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, and more.
• Workplace Accidents
  Fatal accidents in the workplace can happen in various industries, from construction to manufacturing. We help families hold employers accountable for unsafe working conditions and failure to follow safety regulations.
• Defective Products
  If a defective product causes a fatal accident, the manufacturer or seller may be held liable. We handle wrongful death cases related to faulty vehicles, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and more.
• Nursing Home Abuse
  Unfortunately, neglect or abuse in nursing homes can lead to wrongful death. We represent families whose loved ones have died due to substandard care or mistreatment in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
• Criminal Acts (Homicides)
  In tragic cases of intentional harm or homicide, families can file a wrongful death lawsuit in addition to criminal charges. We support families seeking justice in these devastating situations.

Steps to Take After the Wrongful Death of a Loved One

Losing a loved one unexpectedly can be overwhelming. If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, here are the immediate steps to take:

• Seek Medical Care if Needed
  If you or anyone else is injured, get medical attention right away.
• Gather Documents
  Collect important documents such as the death certificate, accident reports, and medical records. These are vital for your claim.
• Consult with a Wrongful Death Attorney
  Speak with a qualified attorney to understand your legal rights and options. They can guide you through the process.
• Preserve Evidence
  Preserve any evidence related to the incident, such as photos, videos, medical records, or damaged property. This will strengthen your case.
• Contact Witnesses or Experts
  If possible, reach out to witnesses or experts who can provide valuable testimony about the incident.

How a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

A skilled wrongful death lawyer can be a powerful ally during this difficult time. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Investigating the Cause of Death
  We thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death to uncover any evidence of negligence or wrongdoing.
• Determining Liability
  We identify all parties who may be responsible for the death, whether it's an individual, company, or another entity. We may also bring in expert witnesses to help establish liability.
• Handling Complex Negotiations
  Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our attorneys are experienced in negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Offering Emotional and Legal Support
  We provide compassionate legal guidance and emotional support as you navigate this challenging time.
• Maximizing Compensation Claims
  Our goal is to help you recover the maximum compensation possible, including economic damages (lost wages, funeral costs) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of companionship).

At Wilson & Parlett, we are committed to helping families seek justice and compensation after the wrongful death of a loved one. Let us support you through this difficult journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Wrongful Death Claims

• What qualifies as a wrongful death?
  A wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to the careless, negligent, or intentional acts of another party. Common causes include car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and defective products. If your loved one’s death was caused by the wrongdoing of another, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
• What types of compensation can be awarded in a wrongful death case?
  Compensation can vary, but common damages include:
  • Economic damages: This includes lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, and medical and funeral expenses.
  • Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, loss of consortium (companionship), and emotional distress.
  • Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, the court may award punitive damages to punish the responsible party.
• Can I file a wrongful death lawsuit if my loved one was partly at fault?
  Yes, you can still file a wrongful death lawsuit even if your loved one was partially at fault. In Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC, comparative negligence laws may reduce the amount of compensation you can receive based on the degree of fault assigned to the deceased. However, you may still be entitled to compensation.
• How do I prove that my loved one's death was caused by negligence?
  To prove negligence in a wrongful death claim, you must show:
  • The responsible party had a duty of care to the deceased.
  • The responsible party breached that duty.
  • The breach directly caused your loved one’s death.
  • Your family has suffered financially and emotionally as a result of the death.
• Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit?
  Typically, immediate family members such as spouses, children, and parents can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, the estate of the deceased may also file a claim on behalf of other potential beneficiaries. A wrongful death attorney can help determine if you are eligible to file based on your relationship to the deceased.
• How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington DC?
  The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC is generally three years from the date of death. However, this deadline can be affected by various factors, so it is important to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed on time.