A wrongful death action refers to a death that was caused as a direct result of the negligence of another individual, company, or entity. For example, deaths caused by drunk driving, the manufacture of a dangerous or defective product, failing to diagnose a fatal disease, or improper construction of a building, may all be considered under the law as wrongful deaths. Relatives, siblings, or members of the decedent’s estate usually bring wrongful death claims. In some cases, wrongful death claims are filed in order to obtain monetary damages to cover the earnings that the deceased person would have provided.
Examples of other damages that may be recovered include:
* Loss of inheritance from an untimely death
* Expenses associated with the death, such as medical and funeral
* Lost benefits, such as insurance
* Loss of that person’s companionship, care or protection
* Pain, suffering or mental anguish suffered by the survivor of the deceased person
* Punitive damages, intended to punish wrongdoers and prevent them from harming others
Medical Malpractice is also a significant cause of wrongful deaths and a very serious issue in hospitals and medical facilities. Untold numbers of patients die from injuries related to medical malpractice every year. Some of the many different ways that doctor and medical errors can result in a wrongful death include:
* Medication errors
* Birth injuries
* Bacterial infections
* Surgical malpractice
* Nursing home negligence
* Diagnosis errors
Although a wrongful death may be the result of many circumstances, most commonly such an event occurs from an auto accident, medical malpractice, workplace accident, or products liability injury.
If a family member has suffered a wrongful death due to the negligence of another, it is best to contact a lawyer associated with a reputable and experienced law firm. Their skilled injury attorneys will carefully evaluate the case and explain the legal options available at no charge. Such law firms never charge an attorney fee unless they are able to obtain a recovery.
Bio: Our Illinois Personal Injury Lawyers have vast experience in wrongful death claim cases. Our clients will benefit a lot from our wealth of knowledge in these cases. Contact our experienced attorneys for a Free Consultation.
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