What Is a Wrongful Death?

by

Michael D. Ponce

Last Updated June 7, 2024 In Wrongful Death

If your loved one died because of a preventable accident or health complication, you may feel angry and frustrated. Would your loved one still be alive if the responsible party had been more attentive, conscientious, or cautious?

When people die because of another person’s or party’s negligence, it may be considered a wrongful death, and their family members may be eligible to file claims for compensation.

At Ponce Law, we know how to help if you lost a family member due to a preventable accident or medical mistake. Our lawyers can review the facts and circumstances of your loved one’s death to determine if it was a wrongful death. A wrongful death case must meet three criteria:

1. The death was caused by negligence or with intent to cause harm. Whether they’re private citizens or healthcare professionals, everyone has a duty to avoid causing harm to others, either directly or indirectly.
2. The death is causing or will cause your family financial problems. Losing a loved one is emotionally painful, but it can also put your family in a financial bind, especially if you relied on their income for day-to-day living expenses.
3. A personal representative has been appointed for your loved one’s estate. To move forward with a wrongful death claim, someone must be appointed as the representative of your loved one’s estate. This is typically another family member.

All manner of fatal accidents can be considered wrongful deaths when victims lose their lives because of negligence. Our Nashville wrongful death lawyers can evaluate your loved one’s death. We can fight to protect their memory and your rights to compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.