Like all personal injury cases, the liable party is responsible for paying the damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. These lawsuits are a viable and important option when a loved one’s death is due to another party’s negligence. However, it can be difficult for most people to balance the grief of losing a loved one with the pursuit of justice. You need a wrongful death attorney.
At the Patterson Law Group, our compassionate team is ready to help during this challenging time. We know that no amount of compensation can replace the loss of a loved one. However, should family members suffer emotional or financial hardship due to wrongful death, we would like to hear your story.
Who is liable to pay damages in car accidents?
Motor vehicle accidents are among the most common causes of fatalities in the United States. It should come as no surprise that it is also common in wrongful death actions. In these cases, several parties could be at fault.
First and foremost, the other driver might be liable for the collision, and their liability insurance coverage will most likely cover your losses. Additionally, their employer might be at fault if they were performing a task required of their job. Other parties that might be at fault include government entities who oversee road conditions and car manufacturers, should the culprit be defective brakes or tires.
Who is liable to pay damages for medical malpractice?
Many wrongful death lawsuits stem from medical malpractice. For example, surgical errors can lead to the sudden, unexpected loss of a loved one. Alternatively, mistakes made during the treatment of a serious illness could lead to long-term issues that eventually result in the death of your family member.
In each case, a medical professional was responsible for your loved one’s health. This could be a physician, a surgeon, a nurse, or even a hospital administrator. If a family member died as a result of medical malpractice, you could recover financial compensation from a doctor’s or hospital’s malpractice insurance policy.
Who is liable to pay damages for defective products?
Defective products also frequently result in wrongful death lawsuits. For example, common household items, even if used as directed, can cause fatalities. Electrical devices may have latent defects as they can explode or ignite unexpectedly. Products can contain unsafe chemicals, and unfortunately, many children are killed by defective products, like toys, strollers, or car seats. Liable parties can include the manufacturer, retailer, wholesaler, distributor, or another party.
You could pursue legal action in these cases and use a legal standard known as “strict liability” that allows you to recover damages without proving negligence.
Call Patterson Law Group for a free consultation
Our team is ready to help you seek compensation for your loved one in a wrongful death action. We’re dedicated to understanding your story and your family, so in addition to providing legal counsel, we can help you find your footing during these challenging times. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
