Learning that a loved one’s death could have been prevented is perhaps the worst thing in the world. While losing a loved one is painful, it is even more painful knowing that the person would have lived had a person not been negligent. Not all deaths can be classified as wrongful deaths, and an individual without the right expertise will find it hard to differentiate. If you believe you deserve justice, contact the best wrongful death attorneys Syracuse, NY today.
Wrongful death is caused by a person’s negligence or deliberate wrongdoing. Here are the most common instances in which wrongful deaths can occur.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
In the United States of America, millions of people are involved in car accidents every year. Many of these accidents result in severe injuries and sometimes death. A large percentage of these accidents occur due to the negligent behavior of the driver. If a person was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or texting while driving, or falling asleep on the wheel, the victim’s family may be entitled to compensation.
Medical Malpractice
Complications caused by medical errors during surgeries or postoperative care can result in wrongful deaths as well. This also includes prescribing the wrong medicines or an incorrect dosage. Failing to diagnose a serious illness in time can also cause wrongful death.
Faulty Products
Product manufacturers owe it to the public to properly test their products before launching them in the market. This applies to electrical appliances, medical equipment and prescription drugs. If a medical or electrical appliance is sold widely prior to performing adequate testing, the products may blow up, short-circuit or electrify the user, resulting in death.
Construction Accidents
It is an employer and company’s duty to ensure that the work environment is safe for the employees. Not complying with safety protocols can result in the wrongful death of the workers. Electrical accidents, crane incidents, preventable falls and equipment failures are a few common reasons behind these wrongful deaths.
Who Can Sue?
Not everyone can sue for wrongful death. The law varies from state to state. Nationwide, immediate family members, such as children, partners and adopted children are eligible for compensation. Partners who were financially dependent on the deceased also have the right to sue.
A few states allow brothers, sisters, grandparents and distant relatives to sue as well. Furthermore, some states also allow the parents of a deceased fetus to sue for compensation for emotional and physical distress.
Regardless of what state you live in, you deserve justice for the harm done to you and your family. An unexpected death is something you may not emotionally recover from your whole life. It is even more overwhelming when death did not occur due to natural circumstances. You need to hold the negligent persons accountable for their actions.
Contact a wrongful death attorney immediately to learn more about the laws in your state and restore peace to your family.