When a loved one dies as a result of the wrongdoing of a stranger, a Wrongful Death Attorney is a critical part of your legal team. These cases often require expert witnesses and medical experts to prove the monetary loss suffered by the family. Punitive damages may be awarded in some cases, intended to punish the offender and deter others from engaging in the same conduct. In some cases, a Wrongful Death Attorney can also pursue damages for pain and suffering.
Compensation for wrongful death
In the United States, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed if a person dies as a result of negligence or intentional misconduct. The surviving family members of the deceased person can sue the party that caused their death for compensation. Typical compensation for wrongful death claims include the funeral expenses, lost wages, and other financial damages. The surviving family members can file the suit on behalf of their loved one’s estate.
The statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit starts from the date that the victim learns of the cause of the death. Generally, this period is two years, but there are exceptions to this. For example, if the wrongful death occurred because of a truck driver’s distraction, the trucking company could be responsible. In such a case, it is vital to obtain an attorney as soon as possible.
Statute of limitations
When a loved one is killed in an accident or a physician fails to diagnose cancer in a timely manner, the family may have additional time to file a lawsuit. For example, a physician may have committed medical malpractice by failing to diagnose cancer when it was early and the patient didn’t learn of it until several years later. This type of negligence could be a result of medical malpractice and an attorney specializing in medical cases may be able to help.
A wrongful death attorney like Tobler Law can help the family of a loved one obtain compensation. These attorneys have extensive experience handling these types of cases and can help guide clients through the process. They will fight to protect their clients’ rights and help the family cope with a difficult time. A wrongful death attorney will help the family work through this difficult time. But hiring a lawyer isn’t always the cheapest option. A wrongful death attorney can help the family get the compensation they deserve.
Common causes of wrongful death lawsuits
Wrongful death cases are often caused by defective products or processes. For example, an automobile with a defective engine or a faulty product designed for kids may be the cause of death. Workplace accidents related to machines or unsafe working conditions are also causes of wrongful death. There are many other causes of wrongful death, including criminal acts, drowning, aircraft accidents, and premises liability. If you or someone you know has died due to the negligence of a company, you may be entitled to compensation.
While automobile accidents are the most common cause of wrongful death, medical malpractice is another common cause. In cases of medical malpractice, a healthcare provider’s failure to provide required care to a patient may be liable. Medical errors, such as delayed diagnosis, surgical mistakes, and prescription errors can result in death. Hospitals and other facilities can be held liable for their mistakes, including negligence and poor supervision. A jury may award damages for wrongful death cases when the negligent party is found guilty.
Cost of hiring a wrongful death attorney
The cost of hiring a wrongful death attorney depends on several factors. First, wrongful death suits are lengthy and typically take years to resolve. A lawyer’s incentive to win a case is to maximize the amount of compensation they get for the client. Hence, a wrongful death attorney will typically charge a percentage of the award, rather than an hourly rate. Regardless of the type of fee arrangement you decide to choose, make sure that you understand the terms of the attorney-client agreement.
Second, the cost of expert witnesses is substantial. These professionals are required to review the evidence and render their opinions on what caused the accident and the death. They write a report and may also testify in court via a deposition or trial. Their costs can be as high as tens of thousands of dollars. Expert witnesses will also be necessary in determining damages, if any. However, the cost of expert witnesses will depend on the complexity of the case and the amount of evidence they are required to present.
If you are in the Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler Gilbert or surrounding areas and need a lawyer for a Wrongful Death Case contact Tobler Law