Accidents injure and kill a great many people in the US every year. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 201,000 people are killed annually in preventable accidents. Though the victim of a wrongful death suffered the ultimate tragedy, there are numerous implications for surviving family members who relied on the deceased person for support, love, and guidance. The losses are immeasurable after a loved one’s life is taken through reckless misconduct.
Fortunately, Maryland personal injury laws apply to situations where the victim was killed by accident. The concept of negligence applies, allowing survivors to seek compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit. You will need to prove that the at-fault party failed to exercise reasonable care, so the specifics depend upon the type of fatal accident. A personal injury lawyer that is experienced in wrongful death cases would advocate on your behalf if someone close to you dies because of the following:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
You might be surprised to learn that traffic collisions rank #3 in terms of top causes of death, resulting in around 41,000 fatalities annually. With these claims, the definition of negligence is a motorist’s breach of the duty to drive safely. Examples include:
- Speeding;
- Drunk driving;
- Red light running; and,
- Failing to yield.
Though the driver was negligent, the victim’s family members will seek wrongful death damages through the at-fault motorist’s auto insurance carrier. You must file a claim and request compensation for your losses.
Slip and Fall Incidents
The second-place spot for the deadliest accidents in the US is falling, which causes approximately 42,110 fatalities every year. Many of these incidents affect the elderly: Falls are responsible for up to 34,000 deaths of individuals 65 years and older annually. When a slip and fall takes place in an assisted living facility, it may be an indication of nursing home negligence. The facility could be liable for failing to monitor residents, not helping them get in and out of bed, and neglecting to address hazards that could cause falls.
Accidental Poisoning
The #1 cause of death in America is unintentional poisoning, a term that can be confusing until you learn its concept. The opioid epidemic and fentanyl crisis contribute to around 87,400 fatalities every year. When a person is killed because of the illegal use of controlled substances, legal options for surviving family members are limited.
However, many healthcare providers are negligent in issuing prescription opioids and related drugs. In such a situation, pursuing a wrongful death suit may be possible based on medical malpractice.
Take Action With Help From a Skilled Maryland Lawyer
It is helpful to understand how liability works for the leading causes of fatal accidents in Maryland, but you can entrust the legal details to an experienced attorney. For more information, please get in touch with the Law Office of William F. Mulroney. Whether you have experienced a wrongful death or serious injury resulting from an accident, getting a free case evaluation from an experienced attorney is always in your best interest.