3 Common Types Of Wrongful Death Cases

Many people have heard the term "wrongful death lawsuits," but not everyone completely understands what kind of cases qualify for a wrongful death claim. Understanding the types of cases that qualify can ensure that you receive the justice and compensation that you deserve if you lose a family member due to wrongful or negligent acts. Some of the most common types of wrongful death cases include:

Automobile Accidents

Unfortunately, there are huge number of automobile accidents in the U.S. each year, and far too many people lose their lives as a result. An automobile accident can qualify as a wrongful death case if the driver who caused the accident can be proven to have been negligent while behind the wheel. Acts such as speeding, driving recklessly, operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or distracted driving can result in a wrongful death lawsuit.

The family of a loved one killed in a car accident may also file a wrongful death lawsuit against the city, state, or county if the accident occurred due to road defects that should have been repaired or road repairs and construction activity that was dangerous to drivers on the road.

Commercial Trucking Accidents

When an automobile is involved in an accident with a semi-truck, the results can be very grim. In these situations, the grieving family can file a wrongful death suit against the trucker and possibly the trucking company. The driver may be found at fault if he or she was speeding, driving aggressively, operating the truck while intoxicated, or being negligent by failing to operate the truck properly due to lack of sleep.

The trucking company may be held responsible for the death if the truck had known mechanical issues, maintenance was not done properly, or if the company employed a driver who was not qualified to operate the semi-truck.

Medical Malpractice

Medical professionals typically try their best to provide excellent patient care, but accidents can happen. If your loved one died due to negligence on the part of a medical professional, you can contact an attorney for assistance in filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Common causes of medical malpractice that result in wrongful death cases include birth injuries, surgical errors that result in death, improper and delayed treatment, making the wrong diagnosis, or pharmaceutical errors. An experienced wrongful death lawyer will be able to build your case, hire expert witnesses, and work on your behalf in a medical malpractice wrongful death case. Talk to an attorney to find more information.