Wrongful DeathWrongful death can occur at any time, any place, and between anyone. When the result of an accident is death, the person who is at fault for the accident can be sued with a wrongful death claim. This in turn could net the family the money to cover expenses regarding the passing of that loved one. Although no amount of money could bring that loved one back, it could help relieve some of the stress that comes from having to financially prepare a loved one for burial.

Many people may question who is at fault or who is liable for the death. This can be determined by law officials upon the reports from the accident or from a coroner upon autopsy. In order to find out who is at fault several tests may be run. The accident will be replayed over and over again until the end result is to determine who is at fault. In the event where there is only one person involved in the accident, the company responsible for the product, default, or any other circumstances that caused that person to die, can be liable for their death.

Is it Wrongful Death or a Crime?

There is a huge difference between a crime that is committed and wrongful deaths, even though both may end with someone dying.

  • Wrongful Death: This type of lawsuit does not determine whether a crime was committed. When a wrongful death occurs, a person closely related to the deceased is responsible for filing the claim and seeing it through. Unlike a crime, when you lose a wrongful death case, jail time is not always the end result. However, more than likely the judge will order compensation for the loved ones and family members of the deceased person.
  • Crimes: In the event of a crime that has caused death, a federal or state prosecutor will be the responsible party for filing the correct charges against the accused. Jail time, criminal penalties, fines, and other sentencing may be given if the accused is found guilty or pleads guilty to the crime they are being accused of.

People who are deceased cannot sue anyone for causing their death. Therefore, it is the responsibility of a loved one. That loved one can be a parent, child, grandparent, close friend, or other relative. If you or someone you know has recently died as the result of another person’s negligence and you are suffering from personal, emotional, or financial difficulties as a result of their death, you might have a wrongful death claim. To confirm the claim, you may need to speak with a professional before filing the claim.

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