Fairland, MD Wrongful Death Lawyer
In many cases, the families of wrongful death victims will face debilitating emotional anguish and financial uncertainty. The losses caused by their loved one’s deaths may be numerous. Further, the path to payment in a wrongful death claim may seem tiresome and complex.
Fortunately, our legal team is prepared to help potential plaintiffs obtain the wrongful death damages they are owed. This compensation can provide crucial support during tumultuous times. Our team will work relentlessly to recover the maximum amount of payment available in every case.
Get support from our wrongful death lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras by calling (410) 694-7291 for a free case evaluation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Fairland, MD?
In Maryland, the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit extends to the deceased individual’s spouse, parents, and/or children. If none of these parties survive the victim, then any individual related to the deceased by blood or marriage, who was significantly dependent on them, retains the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. This legal provision ensures that those closely connected to the deceased have the opportunity to seek justice and compensation for their loss.
However, in addition to finding the right person to file, there are several other requirements that must be adhered to when bringing a wrongful death case to court. After assessing your specific situation, our wrongful death attorneys can explain the appropriate course of action and file on your behalf. We will ensure that all of the necessary conditions are adhered to.
Proving Fault for a Wrongful Death in Fairland, MD
In order to recover payment in a wrongful death case, you will likely have to prove that the death at issue is the defendant’s fault. There are several types of evidence that can be used to establish fault.
Eyewitness Testimony
Eyewitness testimony plays a crucial role in establishing fault in wrongful death cases. Individuals who witnessed the events leading to the fatal incident can provide firsthand accounts of what transpired, offering valuable insights into the circumstances surrounding the incident and identifying potentially negligent actions or parties involved.
Expert Witness Testimony
Expert witness testimony often proves instrumental in proving fault in wrongful death cases, particularly when complex technical or medical issues are involved. Experts in various fields, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, can provide expert opinions based on their specialized knowledge and expertise, helping to clarify critical aspects of the case and establish liability.
Physical Evidence from Accident Scenes
Physical evidence collected from accident scenes can provide tangible proof of the circumstances leading to the wrongful death. This evidence may include skid marks, debris patterns, vehicle damage, or other physical indicators that can help reconstruct the sequence of events and determine fault.
Photographic Evidence from Accident Scenes
Photographic evidence captured at accident scenes serves as visual documentation of the scene’s conditions and the aftermath of the incident. Photographs can capture crucial details that may be overlooked or forgotten over time, providing compelling visual evidence to support claims of negligence or liability.
Accident Reports
Official accident reports compiled by law enforcement agencies or other investigating authorities can offer valuable evidence in wrongful death claims. These reports document key details of the incident, including statements from involved parties, witness accounts, and preliminary assessments of fault, providing an authoritative record of the events leading to the fatal incident.
Victims’ Recollections
Recollections from victims who survived the incident, if available, can offer valuable insights into the events leading up to the wrongful death. While victims’ recollections may be subjective and influenced by trauma, they can still provide valuable firsthand accounts of the incident and help corroborate other forms of evidence.
Surveillance Footage
Surveillance footage from nearby cameras or security systems can provide objective documentation of the events leading to the wrongful death. This footage may capture crucial moments before, during, or after the incident, offering clear visual evidence to support claims of negligence or liability.
How Long Does a Wrongful Death Case Take in Fairland, MD?
The duration of a wrongful death case in Maryland can vary significantly depending on various factors. While some cases are settled quickly, others may take years to resolve.
One of the primary factors influencing the timeline is the complexity of the case. Cases involving multiple parties, such as multi-car accidents, may take longer to resolve as determining fault can be a complex process requiring thorough investigation and analysis of evidence. Similarly, cases involving extensive damages, such as significant financial losses or ongoing medical expenses, may take longer to calculate and negotiate for fair compensation.
Additionally, the availability of evidence, witness testimony, and expert opinions can impact the length of the legal proceedings. Delays in obtaining necessary documentation or scheduling expert witnesses can prolong the case’s duration.
Moreover, the court’s docket and scheduling constraints may also influence the timeline, as cases may experience delays due to court backlogs or scheduling conflicts.
Impact of Multiple Beneficiaries on Your Wrongful Death Claim in Fairland, MD
It is natural to wonder if adding more beneficiaries to a wrongful death lawsuit might diminish the compensation awarded to those already listed. However, in Maryland, this concern is unfounded. Maryland courts determine compensation for each beneficiary individually rather than as a collective sum in a wrongful death case.
For instance, if a person passes away, leaving behind two children named as beneficiaries in a successful wrongful death lawsuit, the court assesses damages for each child separately, without consideration for other beneficiaries. If the court determines that Child X is entitled to $500,000 in damages, Child X will receive that amount regardless of what Child Y or any other beneficiary receives or does not receive. Therefore, it is advisable to include as many eligible beneficiaries as possible in the lawsuit to maximize the potential compensation available.
Call Our Law Firm for Help if Your Loved One Suffered a Wrongful Death in Fairland, MD
Get help from our wrongful death lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras by dialing (410) 694-7291.