The death of a loved one is always hard. When that death occurred because of another’s negligence, family members often wonder whether they have any recourse. If you have lost a loved one due to another’s negligence, speak with an experienced wrongful death attorney to learn about your options and whether you have a case.
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., our lawyers have many years of experience handling wrongful death and survival cases. These cases require a high level of proof and an in-depth understanding of the legal issues involved.
What Do You Need To Prove Wrongful Death?
Proving wrongful death requires establishing that the death was caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party. Wrongful death claims are complex legal matters that necessitate thorough investigation, evidence gathering, and legal expertise.
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., our compassionate attorneys are here to guide you through the process and help you seek justice for your loved one.
Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Our attorneys seek maximum compensation for clients whose loved ones died because of negligence. Some of the cases we have dealt with include:
- People who have died in car crashes
- Fatal truck accidents
- Inadequate medical care
- Products with serious defects
- Medical devices with fatal flaws
- Serious workplace accidents
- Negligent nursing home staff
Whether the cause of the wrongful death was nursing home negligence or a fatal accident, our Maryland attorneys will consult with economists, life care planners and other experts to determine the full impact of the loved one’s death.
Act Quickly To Preserve Your Right To Legal Action
We urge individuals considering a wrongful death claim to act quickly, as statute of limitations could prevent legal action after a specific amount of time. If you have a solid case, you do not want to lose your opportunity to obtain the financial resources that can help you put your life back together after the death of a family member or loved one.
For more information about our Baltimore wrongful death attorneys, contact Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., today. Call (855) 865-6185 toll free or complete our online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the deceased person's spouse, parents, and children are typically the ones eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If none of these relatives survive the decedent, other relatives by blood or marriage who were financially dependent on the deceased may also file the claim.
What is an example of a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim might arise if a driver operates a vehicle negligently, resulting in a fatal accident. For instance, if a truck driver falls asleep at the wheel and causes a fatal collision, the victim's family may pursue a wrongful death case.
What is the burden of proof in a wrongful death case?
In wrongful death cases, the plaintiff must prove the defendant's negligence by a "preponderance of the evidence." This means showing that it is more likely than not that the defendant's actions were responsible for the victim's death.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the deceased person’s death. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your case is filed within this timeframe.
Can multiple family members file separate wrongful death lawsuits?
No, in Maryland, only one wrongful death lawsuit can be filed on behalf of all eligible beneficiaries. Typically, the lawsuit is filed jointly by all the beneficiaries or by a representative on their behalf.
What types of compensation are available in a wrongful death case?
Compensation in a wrongful death case may include economic damages such as lost wages, medical expenses, and funeral costs, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
Can a wrongful death case be settled out of court?
Yes, many wrongful death cases are settled out of court through negotiations between the parties involved. An experienced attorney can help negotiate a fair settlement, but if an agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.
