20 Jul Examples of Wrongful Death
Losing someone you love in an accident can be distressing, especially if you find out that the incident could have been prevented. Improper actions or inactions or carelessness another actor are all reasons you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. If you choose to hold the responsible party legally liable by filing a wrongful death lawsuit, surviving family members can seek compensation for their losses. Read on to learn about some of the most prevalent types of wrongful death lawsuits.
Car Accidents
When it comes to wrongful death, car accidents are the most common cause because millions of drivers are on the road every day, making many people susceptible. Most automobile accident deaths are the result of one or more driver’s negligence. Speeding, driving recklessly, not paying attention or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can all lead to a fatality in a car accident. If any of these behaviors apply, the driver at fault can be liable for the deaths of anyone else involved in the accident.
Medical Malpractice
While doctors and nurses usually do their best to help and heal patients, mistakes can happen. These errors sometimes occur when medical staff are careless or don’t follow appropriate procedures. In medical malpractice cases, the most frequent causes of wrongful death are misdiagnosis of a condition or failure to diagnose a condition. Mistakes during surgery and improperly treating some medical conditions are also prevalent causes of wrongful death in medicine. Medical malpractice cases are almost always complex and require a comprehensive investigation.
Product Liability Claim
Product designers, manufacturers, and sellers have a responsibility that the goods they are selling are safe for consumer use. However, sometimes products are sold with unanticipated defects that can lead to death. If a person’s death is caused by a defective product, the manufacturer can be held liable. Product liability is often why manufacturers spend a great deal of time testing products to make sure they are safe before they are sold to the general public. One of the most well-known examples of wrongful death due to a defective product is the Ford Pinto in the 1970s. The car’s dangerous design meant that even the slightest rear-end collision could hit the gas tank and cause it to rupture, which often resulted in a serious explosion.
Premises Liability Claims
Just like manufacturers have a duty to protect consumers from dangerous products, business and property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their premises in a safe condition for customers and guests. If someone injured or dies as a result of unreasonably dangerous conditions on the property — whether because of lack of maintenance, inadequate security, or any other reason — the property owner or occupier may be held legally liable. These conditions can include inadequate care of the property and insufficient security.
At Kasunic Law we are committed, compassionate advocates for our clients. We know that nothing can fully make up for the loss of a loved one, but we can protect your rights and make sure that your family receives monetary support from the party responsible for the wrongful death. We handle all legal elements of your claim so that you can take the time you need to mourn your loss and focus on your family during an incredibly difficult time. For a private consultation, please contact our office today.