By Pendergast Law on February 27, 2016
A wrongful death is any wrongful or negligent act by a personal or a corporation that lead to a person’s death. These claims are brought by the victim’s surviving family members. Wrongful death claims can help cover the victim’s medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Many claims will also consider the pain and suffering of the victim’s family.
Here are the most common causes of wrongful death claims we see here in the State of Washington:
Car Accidents: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 40,000 Americans die each year in car accidents. This is by far the most common cause of wrongful death. Many of these accidents are caused by drivers not following traffic signs or laws, speeding drivers, people driving under the influence, or people driving tired. A wrongful death claim can be brought not against the driver who caused the accident, but also their insurance company.
Medical Malpractice: According the American Medical Association (AMA), medical malpractice is the second leading cause of wrongful deaths. These are deaths that happen because of a negligent error by a medical professional (like a doctor or a nurse) or a hospital. These errors are situations were medical professionals don’t meet acceptable standards of care. Common types of medical malpractice include:
- Surgery errors
- Birth injuries
- Anesthesia errors
- Medication errors
- Medical equipment injuries
- Diagnosis errors
- Nursing home neglect/abuse
Work-Related Accidents: Employers who didn’t meet safety measures on a work site can have a wrongful death claim brought against them. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety standards designed to protect workers. Employers can be held liable for a wrongful death if faulty equipment or improper training is responsible for the worker’s death. Most workplace deaths are connected to the construction industry, but any job has the possibility of leading to a serious injury or death.
Contact Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S.
The surviving family members of anyone who dies because of another person or companies’ negligent actions need an experienced attorney on their side. Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. have helped many families through this rough time. Let us be there for yours. You can reach us at 888-539-9211.