A wrongful death lawsuit claims that your loved one’s death was caused by the conduct of another person; regardless if the defendant’s conduct was negligent or intentional, they may be held strictly liable for the victim’s death. A wrongful death lawsuit seeks to resolve the injustice of death and retrieve monetary compensation for the surviving spouse, children, beneficiaries or dependents.

Wrongful death cases include those in which the victim died during or as a result of an automobile accident, work accident, violent act, defective drug, negligent medical care or surgery, etc. Wrongful death charges may be brought against the individual(s) responsible and can also be brought against public agencies that may be responsible for death, including a city or state, a city jail, state prison, state or private hospital, school, public company, nursing home, etc.

Damages that can be obtained for the victim’s family in a typical wrongful death case include:

• Medical, hospital, funeral and burial expenses;
• Past and future monetary losses such as loss of financial support and service;
• Compensation for pain and suffering;

Generally, the immediate family members (i.e. spouses, children and parents) file a wrongful death claim, but anyone who is a victim can submit a wrongful death complaint. Since wrongful death lawsuits are brought to civil court, the complaint must be submitted within the statue of limitations; these time limitations are different in each state. To learn more, immediately submit your case below for a free case evaluation.

Wrongful Death In the News

In San Francisco a jury awarded $27 million to the family of a four year old girl who was hit and killed by a Muni truck.. (Sep-02-05) [SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE]

On October 21, 2004 after the Boston Red Sox victory, Victoria Snelgrove was killed by a police projectile. Deputy Superintendent Robert O’Toole shot and killed the Emerson College student while trying to control rowdy fans. Snelgrove’s family was awarded $3 million from the police department and another $2 million from the city. (May-03-05) [WASHINGTON TIMES]