When a loved one dies in an accident, or sustains injuries that later cause their death, legal proceedings may be the last thing on your mind. But if the accident was caused by someone else’s wrong, it is often important to investigate whether to bring a lawsuit. A wrongful death attorney can help bring a sense of justice and maybe even a sense of closure to the tragedy of your loved one’s death.
What Happens If You File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Maine and other states, you can bring a wrongful death lawsuit against a person or company who caused your loved one’s death either through negligence or by committing a wrongful act. Examples include medical malpractice, negligent driving that caused an automobile accident, manufacturing or selling an unsafe product, and other types of negligence or bad acts.
If you file a wrongful death lawsuit, you can pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of your loved one’s financial support and companionship, hospital costs, and your emotional distress. If your loved one experienced pain and suffering between the time they were injured and the time they passed away, you can pursue compensation on their behalf, known as a “survivor claim,” for that as well. In some cases, you may also receive punitive damages.
Should You Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney?
If you suspect that your loved one’s death was caused, at least in part, by someone else’s negligence or wrongful act, you should consult an experienced wrongful death attorney to find out if you should file a lawsuit. Maybe you know or suspect that:
- A doctor misdiagnosed your loved one or prescribed the wrong medicine.
- Your loved one was killed in a car crash where the other driver was speeding or drunk.
- Your loved one was killed while using faulty machinery at work.
- Your loved one was a homicide victim.
These are just a few examples. If you have any suspicion that negligence was involved in your loved one’s death, you should talk with a wrongful death lawyer to find out how the law applies in your situation.
There are time limits for filing a wrongful death lawsuit, so don’t wait too long: In Maine, you typically have two years from the time your loved one passed away to file suit. Exceptions are cases of homicide (in which you’d have six years), and cases of medical malpractice (in which you’d have three years).
You should look for an attorney who practices law in your state who has extensive experience with wrongful death lawsuits and a great track record of favorable results. They should be dedicated to fighting for your rights and should be compassionate about your loss. The experienced wrongful death legal team at Garmey Law would be glad to answer your questions and provide a free consultation. Call us at (207) 481-4683, or contact us through our website.
