Types of Lawsuits: Wrongful Death

What is Wrongful Death? Wrongful death is death caused by the fault of another person. A Wrongful Death lawsuit claims that the deceased person died as a result of negligence or other liability and that the surviving dependents or beneficiaries are entitled to monetary damages as a result of the defendant's conduct.

A Wrongful Death lawsuit is brought by the family of the deceased and may seek damages for pain and suffering, lost wages, mental anguish, loss of companionship, support for the surviving relatives and to help defray medical costs and provide financial support. Most Wrongful Death suits are based on negligence, and there must be proof that the wrongdoer had a duty to act in a certain manner, failed to act in such a responsible manner, and such failure caused the death of the deceased.

Wrongful death lawsuits can result from a number of situations, including medical malpractice, transportation injuries, work place injuries, product liability, drinking and driving, building an unstable structure, or failing to diagnose a fatal disease.

Statutes of limitations often require that Wrongful Death lawsuits be filed within a certain period of time in order to be viable. Laws pertaining to Wrongful Death lawsuits vary from state to state, but in general, immediate family members of the deceased can bring Wrongful Death claims. If Wrongful Death is suspected, it is recommended that you seek legal counsel immediately. A Wrongful Death lawyer will attempt to ensure that the family's emotional suffering is not augmented with unnecessary financial stress.

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