When your loved one dies due to negligence by another party, they are not in a position to file a personal injury claim. Fortunately, under Texas law, certain relatives qualify to pursue a claim for wrongful death. These persons include the surviving spouse, parents of the deceased, and children, whether biological or legally adopted.
Wrongful death has several causes, each with a party at fault. Knowing the negligent party is key in seeking compensation. With the help of an attorney, you can easily know the negligent party and file a case against them.
Read on for five examples of wrongful deaths that Texas wrongful death lawyers handle.
Work-Related Accidents
While some professions are riskier than others, a wrongful death can occur in any profession. If an employee dies due to dangerous conditions at the workplace, the employing company will be liable. A wrongful death lawyer will handle workplace wrongful death claims resulting from faulty equipment, improper training, fires and explosions, and machine-related accidents.
All Auto Accidents
Car accidents are the most common cause of wrongful death in the US. Texas wrongful death lawyers handle auto accidents to establish the negligent party. Where the driver is at fault, your attorney will prove their negligence, including drowsy driving, distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, or driving under the influence. The state would be liable if the accident were due to poor road conditions or the weather.
Medical Negligence And Malpractice
Medical professionals are prone to mistakes, and the results can be fatal. According to the American Medical Association, medical negligence contributes highly to the number of wrongful death cases in the US. Texas wrongful death lawyers handle wrongful death claims caused by misdiagnosis, birth injury, surgical errors, delayed or improper treatment, and pharmaceutical errors.
Defective Manufacturer Products
Defective manufacturer products are another example of a claim that Texas wrongful death lawyers handle. Unfortunately, defective products find their way into the market more often than we realize. Qualified parties can pursue a claim if using a default product causes wrongful death. Common defective products in the market that cause wrongful death include pharmaceuticals, toxic food, and defective vehicles.
Nursing Home Abuse
While a nursing home is meant to be safe for the elderly, it can become a death zone. These homes are the most vulnerable members of society who may be unable to stand up for themselves due to old age or illnesses. Staff in these residents can use their titles to abuse, ignore the needs of the elderly or mistreat them, resulting in wrongful death.
Examples of nursing home abuse that can cause wrongful death include physical, financial, verbal, and sexual abuse. The elderly may also suffer dehydration or malnourishment due to a lack of enough water and food respectively. Slip and fall accidents can also occur, causing severe injuries and eventual death.
Texas Wrongful Death Lawyers Will Handle Your Case
If you lose your loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you should seek justice to help with closure. Holding the negligent party accountable will also prevent other people’s suffering due to similar causes. By working with a wrongful death attorney, you can pursue and get a fair claim, easing your financial burden in the wake of your loss.
