Wrongful death cases are among the most devastating legal matters families face. These tragic situations arise when someone’s negligence or misconduct leads to the loss of a loved one.
At Impact Attorneys, we understand the profound emotional and financial toll these cases take on families. This post explores common types of wrongful death cases to help you better understand your rights and options for seeking justice.
How Does Medical Malpractice Lead to Wrongful Death?
Medical malpractice stands as a leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. A Johns Hopkins study reveals that medical errors cause more than 250,000 deaths each year, ranking it as the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer.
Misdiagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis
Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can result in fatal consequences. When doctors miss or diagnose serious conditions like cancer or heart disease too late, a patient’s survival chances decrease significantly.
Surgical Errors
Surgical errors represent another common form of medical malpractice that leads to wrongful death. These errors include operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside the patient, or administering incorrect anesthesia dosages.
Medication Mistakes
Medication errors occur with alarming frequency in healthcare settings. These mistakes can happen at any stage of the medication process (from prescribing to administering). A wrong dosage or an incorrect medication can lead to severe complications or death.
Birth Injuries Resulting in Death
While less common, birth injuries can result in tragic outcomes. Some of these deaths stem from preventable medical errors during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
Medical malpractice cases require expert legal representation to navigate their complexities. Families who suspect medical negligence led to the loss of a loved one should act quickly, as most states have a statute of limitations for filing wrongful death claims (typically ranging from one to three years from the date of death or discovery of malpractice).
As we shift our focus to another common cause of wrongful death, let’s examine how vehicle accidents contribute to these tragic cases.
How Do Vehicle Accidents Cause Wrongful Deaths?
Vehicle accidents remain a leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2020, the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled increased to 1.34, a 21% increase from 2019 and the highest since 2007. This staggering number underscores the importance of understanding the various types of vehicle accidents that can lead to wrongful death claims.
Car Accidents: A Common Tragedy
Car accidents account for a significant portion of wrongful death cases. In 2020, the NHTSA reported 23,395 passenger vehicle occupant fatalities. These accidents often result from distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence. Families of victims should know that they may have grounds for a wrongful death claim if negligence played a role in the accident.
Truck Collisions: Devastating Consequences
Truck accidents, while less frequent than car accidents, often result in more severe outcomes due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported fatal crashes involving large trucks in their Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts (LTBCF) report. These accidents can be particularly complex, as they may involve multiple parties (including the truck driver, trucking company, and even manufacturers of faulty truck parts).
Motorcycle Crashes: Vulnerable Riders at Risk
Motorcycle riders face a higher risk of fatal injuries in accidents. The NHTSA reported 5,579 motorcyclist fatalities in 2020. The lack of protection for riders often leads to catastrophic injuries or death, even in relatively minor collisions. Families of motorcycle accident victims should consider consulting with experienced attorneys to navigate the unique challenges these cases present.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Fatalities: Unprotected Road Users
Pedestrians and cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. In 2020, the NHTSA reported 6,516 pedestrian fatalities and 938 cyclist deaths. These accidents often occur due to driver inattention, failure to yield, or poor visibility. Urban areas with high traffic density tend to see more of these tragic incidents.
Experienced attorneys (such as those at Impact Attorneys) understand the devastating impact of vehicle-related wrongful deaths on families. They dedicate themselves to helping victims’ families navigate the legal process and seek justice for their loved ones. These legal professionals handle all aspects of wrongful death claims, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing families in court.
As we move forward, it’s important to consider another significant category of wrongful death cases: those that occur in the workplace. Let’s examine how workplace accidents contribute to these tragic incidents and the legal implications for affected families.
How Do Workplace Accidents Lead to Wrongful Death?
Workplace accidents that result in wrongful death occur with alarming frequency. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 4,764 fatal work injuries happened in the United States in 2020. These incidents devastate families and raise complex legal questions about employer responsibility and worker safety.
Construction Site Fatalities
Construction sites present particularly dangerous work environments. In 2020, fatalities caused by falls, slips, and trips accounted for 35.3 percent (345 of 976) of the fatalities within construction and extraction occupations. Common causes include falls from heights, electrocutions, and objects striking workers. Employers who fail to provide proper safety equipment or training may face liability in wrongful death claims.
Industrial Accident Risks
Industrial settings pose unique hazards. Chemical exposures, machinery malfunctions, and explosions can lead to fatal injuries. For instance, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board investigated 46 incidents in 2020, many of which resulted in fatalities. Families affected by these tragedies should seek legal counsel to navigate the complexities of industrial accident claims.
Occupational Diseases and Long-Term Exposure
Some wrongful death cases stem from long-term exposure to harmful substances. Asbestos-related deaths still occur despite regulations. Asbestos exposure in occupational settings resulted in 107,000 deaths and 1,523,000 Disability Adjusted Life Years in 2004. These cases often require extensive documentation and expert testimony to prove causation.
Workplace Violence and Security Failures
Negligent security can lead to workplace violence and fatalities. The National Safety Council reports that workplace violence ranks as the third-leading cause of work-related deaths. Employers have a duty to provide a safe work environment (which includes protection from foreseeable violent acts). Failure to implement adequate security measures can result in liability.
Workers should report unsafe conditions, and employers should prioritize safety. For those who have lost loved ones to workplace accidents, seeking legal representation is important. An experienced attorney can help navigate workers’ compensation laws, identify potential third-party claims, and ensure families receive the compensation they deserve.
Most states have specific time limits for filing wrongful death claims, so prompt action is essential. Holding negligent parties accountable not only seeks justice for victims but also promotes safer work environments for all.
Final Thoughts
Wrongful death cases demand expert guidance due to their complexity and emotional challenges. Each state imposes strict time limits for filing these claims, typically one to three years from the date of death. Families who fail to act within this timeframe risk losing their right to seek compensation.
Impact Attorneys specializes in personal injury law, including wrongful death claims resulting from various accidents. Our team offers personalized attention to each client, focusing on securing maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We handle all aspects of wrongful death claims, from investigating the circumstances to representing families in court if necessary.
Families who choose Impact Attorneys gain a dedicated ally in their pursuit of justice. We strive to hold negligent parties accountable while providing comprehensive support throughout the legal process. If you’ve lost a family member due to someone else’s negligence, contact us for professional legal guidance to protect your rights and honor your loved one’s memory.
