The death of a loved one is never easy, but it can be particularly painful when their death is the result of an accident. When an accident or incident is caused by negligence, the responsible party should pay for the damages they caused. While nothing can bring back your loved one, you can seek compensation for the medical bills, funeral costs, pain and suffering, and more. Experienced Waldorf, MD wrongful death lawyers will help you obtain the money you and your family deserve at this difficult time.
What is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death happens when a negligent party causes the death of another. A person has the obligation to use ordinary care when they go about their lives. Negligence occurs when someone breaches that duty and causes harm or death to another. For instance, when a driver speeds, they know that their excessive speed could result in an accident with injuries or fatalities. Medical professionals are held to a higher degree of care than a typical person because of their training, education, and experience. If a doctor makes a mistake that results in death, they could be deemed negligent in a wrongful death claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
When a loved one dies because of someone’s negligence, you may be able to seek compensation. In Maryland, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by a survivor. For example, a person such as a spouse, parents, or children may bring a wrongful death lawsuit. The estate of the deceased may also bring a lawsuit against the negligent party. A wrongful death or negligent death can occur in various situations. Some of the most common wrongful deaths happen from car accidents, medical malpractice, and products that are defective. Anytime someone dies as a result of someone else’s negligence, it may be appropriate for a survivor to file a wrongful death claim.
How a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Works
A relative or loved one of the deceased may file a lawsuit to seek justice for a wrongful death. The person or estate must be allowed to file the claim. Your attorney will work to obtain evidence in the case to prove your claim. The law allows you to seek damages for the wrongful death. Damages include both economic and non-economic losses. Some examples of damages are medical expenses, funeral costs, and compensation for harm to loved ones that was caused by the wrongful death. The law limits the amount of money that you can be awarded for a wrongful death lawsuit.
How Waldorf, MD Wrongful Death Lawyers Will Help
The law limits the time you can file a wrongful death claim. Generally, you must file a claim within three years of the death, however, there may be some exceptions that apply in your case. The death of a loved one is never an easy time for families. Although there is nothing you can do to bring back your loved one, there is something you can do to legally seek justice for the wrongful death.