Fort Washington Wrongful Death Lawyer

There are many types of accidents that can result in wrongful deaths. For instance, a high number of motor vehicle collisions have the potential to produce deadly harm. Further, victims may be killed because of medical malpractice, slip and falls, or accidents caused by defective consumer products.

If you suspect that your loved one was killed as a result of another’s wrongful act, then our attorneys can assess the strength of your potential claim. There are several types of wrongful death damages that can be sought. We will fight recover the full extent of payment available in your case.

Seek assistance from our wrongful death attorneys today by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims in Fort Washington, MD

Under Md. Code, Cts. and Jud. Proc. §5-108(c), potential plaintiffs will typically have three years from the dates of their loved ones’ deaths to bring their wrongful death claims to court. Still, there are certain exceptions to this three-year deadline.

For instance, there is an exception for wrongful death claims stemming from medical malpractice. Plaintiffs in such cases may file within three years of the discovery of their medical malpractice injuries. This extension, however, cannot extent past five years from the date of victims’ deaths and applies exclusively to medical malpractice cases.

Additionally, unlike personal injury lawsuits where a general extension may be applied if the victim is a minor, no such extension applies to wrongful death actions.

If you do not act in accordance with the statute of limitations, then your case may be dismissed. Moreover, as time passes, the evidence needed to support your wrongful death claim may become hard to preserve or collect. Accordingly, you should seek legal support as soon as possible after your loved one’s passing. The sooner you connect with our wrongful death attorneys, the more efficient the process of evidence collection will be. We can also help prepare your claim and bring it to court on time.

Survival Actions vs. Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Fort Washington, MD

Following the occurrence of a wrongful death, families often need to navigate two distinct avenues to compensation. Fortunately, our legal team can assist you in determining whether you have grounds to pursue both a wrongful death lawsuit and a survival action.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In a wrongful death lawsuit, surviving family members or beneficiaries seek to secure compensation for the losses they endured because of their loved one’s passing.

A defining feature of a wrongful death lawsuit is that it seeks payment for damages sustained by the victim’s beneficiaries, such as the loss of financial support, marital care, or emotional guidance.

Survival Action

In contrast, a survival action stems from the personal injuries sustained by the deceased individual before their demise. Unlike a wrongful death lawsuit, which focusses on losses incurred by the surviving family members, a survival action focusses on damages incurred by victims between the time of their injury and their death.

For instance, damages sought in a survival action may encompass the deceased’s medical expenses, physical pain, emotional suffering, and property damage. Payment recovered in a survival action forms part of the deceased’s estate and follows distribution according to their will.

Why Do Wrongful Deaths Occur in Fort Washington, MD?

There are different types of accidents that can produce fatal injuries. For instance, the following are all common examples of how wrongful deaths occur in Fort Washington:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Fatal injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents can include traumatic head injuries, severe spinal cord damage leading to paralysis, internal organ damage, and extensive internal bleeding. The force of impact in collisions, coupled with the lack of restraint systems, often results in devastating injuries with fatal consequences for victims.

Medical Malpractice

In wrongful death cases stemming from medical malpractice, fatal injuries may involve surgical errors leading to hemorrhage or organ perforation, medication errors causing adverse reactions or overdose, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of life-threatening conditions, and complications arising from anesthesia administration. These injuries highlight the grave consequences of medical negligence on patient safety and wellbeing.

Workplace Accidents

Fatal injuries suffered in workplace accidents can range from falls from heights causing severe head trauma or spinal cord injuries to electrocution resulting in cardiac arrest or internal organ damage. Other examples include crush injuries from machinery malfunctions, chemical exposure leading to respiratory failure or toxic shock, and explosions causing severe burns or fatal blast injuries. These incidents underscore the importance of workplace safety protocols and employer responsibility in preventing fatal accidents.

Defective Products

Victims of wrongful deaths stemming from defective products may suffer fatal injuries such as severe burns from malfunctioning electronics or appliances, internal injuries from defective medical devices or pharmaceuticals, traumatic brain injuries from faulty automotive components, or asphyxiation from defective household goods. These examples highlight the tragic consequences of product defects and the importance of product safety standards to prevent such fatalities.

Importance of Hiring Legal Representation in a Fort Washington Wrongful Death Case

When considering the pursuit of a wrongful death claim, hiring legal representation can be a crucial step. These cases can be highly complex. As you navigate through the aftermath of your loved one’s untimely passing, our legal professionals can serve as your trusted ally, providing the skills and experience necessary to build a strong claim.

From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies or opposing parties, our lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses. Moreover, we can provide clarity on legal proceedings, answer your questions, and keep you informed every step of the way.

Also, with skilled legal representation, you may increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Our team’s expertise allows us to anticipate potential challenges, devise effective strategies, and advocate fiercely for your rights in and out of the courtroom. By entrusting your case to us, you can focus on grieving and healing while we work tirelessly to pursue justice.

Call Our Lawyers for Help with Your Wrongful Death Case in Fort Washington, MD

Seek guidance from our experienced wrongful death lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras today by calling (410) 694-7291.