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: Seeking justice for families affected by distracted driving, speeding, or negligence.
- Truck Accidents: Handling complex cases involving driver fatigue, weight violations, and commercial negligence.
- Medical Malpractice: Addressing fatal errors in diagnosis, surgery, or medication.
- Workplace Accidents: Holding employers accountable for unsafe conditions and safety violations.
- Defective Products: Pursuing liability for faulty vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.
- Nursing Home Abuse: Representing families impacted by neglect or substandard facility care.
- Criminal Acts: Supporting families with wrongful death lawsuits following homicides or intentional harm.
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: Get immediate attention for any injuries.
- Gather Documents: Collect death certificates, accident reports, and medical records.
- Consult an Attorney: Speak with a specialist to understand your legal options.
- Preserve Evidence: Save photos, videos, and any property related to the incident.
- Identify Witnesses: Contact anyone who saw the event or can provide legal testimony.
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: We uncover evidence of negligence or wrongdoing to find the truth behind your loss.
- Determining Liability: We identify all responsible parties, utilizing witnesses to build a solid case.
- Negotiations: We handle insurance companies for you, fighting against low-ball offers to secure fair settlements.
- Compassionate Support: We provide dedicated legal guidance and emotional empathy during this difficult time.
- Maximizing Recovery: We pursue the highest possible compensation for both financial losses and emotional trauma.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 for damages can vary significantly depending on the case, but it generally falls into three categories. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses like lost wages, medical bills, and funeral expenses. Non-economic damages address subjective impacts such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. Finally, punitive damages are specifically intended to punish a defendant in instances of gross negligence or intentional harm.
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. The laws in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC may affect how fault is evaluated and could reduce or bar recovery, so it is important to get legal advice about how the rules apply to your situation.
How do I prove that my loved one's death was caused by negligence?
To successfully prove negligence in a wrongful death claim, you must establish that the responsible party owed the deceased a duty of care and subsequently breached that duty through their actions or inaction. Furthermore, it must be demonstrated that this specific breach was the direct cause of the individual’s death, resulting in measurable financial and emotional suffering for the surviving family members.
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 lawyer Upper Marlboro families consult with can help determine if you are eligible to file based on your relationship to the deceased and the state where the claim is brought.
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 is generally a limited number of years from the date of death, and the specific deadline depends on the jurisdiction and facts of the case. Because these time limits can be affected by various factors, it is important to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadline.
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