Detroit Wrongful Death Lawyers
Losing a loved one is never easy, and it can be even more difficult when you know that someone else’s preventable actions caused the death. Sadly, medical professionals whom we trust to improve our loved one’s health and wellbeing are all too often the people responsible for a person’s untimely and wrongful death. In these instances, a family is often left grieving the loss of a loved one, in addition to facing exorbitant costs due to medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and more.
At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we understand just how traumatic it can be for families in Detroit to lose a loved one as the result of a medical professional’s negligence. Whether it was a nurse, doctor, hospital administration, or other related party, these professionals who fail to provide appropriate care, causing an innocent people’s untimely death, should be held accountable.
Medical Causes of Wrongful Death
The medical field is full of experts, who should rarely if ever, make critical errors that could lead to someone’s death. Unfortunately, there are some cases of medical malpractice, like the following, that can cause a wrongful death:
- Failure to use anesthesia (or use of it incorrectly)
- Surgical error
- Pharmaceutical mistake / error in preparing or administering drugs
- Abuse in hospitals / negligent staff
- Failure to make an accurate diagnosis
- Inadequate / delayed treatment
- Emergency room error
- Improper treatment
These actions could quickly become life-threatening for a patient, and might have even recently ended the life of someone that you love. However, you have rights as a family member or dependent of someone who has been killed due to medical error or malpractice, and an attorney can help you understand what these are.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death in Detroit
What is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal claim that arises when an individual’s death is caused by the negligence or wrongful actions of another person or entity. This type of lawsuit is designed to provide a legal avenue for surviving family members to seek justice and obtain financial compensation for their significant loss. The claim usually focuses on the circumstances surrounding the death and the impact it has had on the survivors.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Detroit?
In the state of Michigan, a wrongful death claim is typically initiated by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This representative is appointed through the probate court and is responsible for managing the estate’s affairs. Eligible beneficiaries who may file for compensation include spouses, biological and adopted children, parents, grandparents, and siblings. Each of these parties has the legal standing to claim damages resulting from the death.
What Types of Compensation Can Be Recovered?
Surviving family members may be entitled to various forms of compensation to cover different aspects of their loss. These can include:
Medical Expenses – Costs incurred for the deceased’s medical treatment before death.
Funeral and Burial Costs – Expenses related to the funeral and any burial or cremation services.
Lost Wages – Compensation for the income that the deceased would have earned if they had not died, taking into account their earning potential and work history.
Pain and Suffering – Damages awarded for the emotional distress and suffering experienced by the deceased prior to their death.
Loss of Companionship – Compensation for the emotional loss and impact on the relationship experienced by family members due to the death.
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Michigan, the time frame for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally limited to three years from the date of the individual’s death. This time limit is critical, as failing to file within this period may result in the loss of the right to pursue a claim. It is important for families to understand this deadline and take action promptly to ensure their rights are protected.
What Are Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Detroit?
Wrongful death cases can arise from various circumstances, and some common causes include:
Car Accidents – Fatal crashes caused by reckless driving, drunk driving, or other negligent behavior on the road.
Medical Malpractice – Deaths resulting from the negligent actions of healthcare professionals, such as surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or improper treatment.
Workplace Incidents – Fatal accidents that occur in the course of employment, particularly in hazardous work environments where safety regulations may be violated.
Hazardous Property Conditions – Deaths caused by unsafe or poorly maintained properties, such as slip and fall accidents or inadequate building safety measures.
How Much Can a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Settle For?
The amount that a wrongful death lawsuit can settle for varies significantly based on several factors, including:
The Deceased’s Financial Contributions – The income and support the deceased provided to their family, as well as their potential future earnings.
Pain and Suffering – The extent of physical and emotional suffering endured by the deceased before their passing.
Available Insurance Coverage – The limits of liability insurance held by the party responsible for the wrongful death, which can affect settlement negotiations. It’s essential for survivors to understand that each case is unique, and settlements can differ widely from case to case.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Wrongful Death Case?
Yes, hiring a qualified attorney is highly advisable for anyone considering a wrongful death claim. Navigating the complexities of Michigan’s laws and legal procedures can be challenging, especially during a time of grief and loss. An experienced lawyer can help families understand their rights, gather necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and effectively represent them in court if needed. This legal expertise is crucial in maximizing compensation and ensuring that the family receives the justice they deserve.
Contact Our Wrongful Death Lawyers in Detroit
If your loved one has passed away and you believe that some form of medical negligence or malpractice might have been involved, then the attorneys of Ravid & Associates, P.C. may be able to help you pursue the justice, closure, and financial compensation you need. Though this compensation cannot bring back your loved one, it might be able to help you stay financially afloat during this difficult time, not to mention get a sense of justice. Contact us today at (248) 948-9696 to speak with a compassionate member of our team about how we can help.