Common Causes of Wrongful Death



Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s wrongdoing can be stressful and confusing. While money can’t replace what you’ve lost, filing a wrongful death claim in Washington D.C. might help you hold the responsible party accountable and may provide compensation for funeral expenses or other costs. Understanding the most common causes can help you learn about your legal options. Some of the most frequent causes leading to wrongful death include: 

Car Accidents 

These car collisions often involve negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence. Fatalities can occur on highways, rural roads, or through intersection crashes within city limits. Survivors may find it helpful to seek legal representation to recover losses like medical bills, funeral costs, and lost financial support.

Medical Malpractice 

Medical errors can be the result of misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, or insufficient aftercare. Patients place their trust in healthcare professionals, and when something goes wrong, the impact can be devastating. Families may pursue a wrongful death claim to cover expenses and hold medical providers accountable.

Contact our Washington D.C. wrongful death attorneys at (202) 919-5453

Workplace Accidents 

Heavy machinery, construction sites, and other risky job environments can result in deadly incidents if proper safety measures aren’t upheld. Falls, exposure to harmful substances, and equipment failures are common workplace dangers. Determining fault can be complex, and a work injury attorney in Washington D.C. can help untangle who’s responsible, whether it’s an employer or a third-party contractor.

Product Liability 

Defective or hazardous products can present serious risks if they fail unexpectedly. These issues can range from faulty airbags and child car seats to contaminated food items. When a death results from a dangerously marketed or manufactured product, families can seek damages under wrongful death and product liability laws.

Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect 

Elderly individuals are sometimes vulnerable to physical abuse or nursing home neglect from caregivers. This can involve inadequate supervision, malnutrition, medication errors, or even physical harm leading to death. Surviving relatives often pursue legal actions to expose these conditions, improve care for others, and recoup monetary losses tied to their loved one’s passing.

Criminal Conduct 

Incidents involving violent acts, homicide, or other criminal behavior can lead to wrongful death claims in addition to criminal charges. Surviving family members can sue the perpetrator for financial compensation connected to the loved one’s death. This process provides an additional avenue of accountability and can help relieve the financial burden left behind.

If you suspect that someone else’s negligence led to the loss of your loved one, discussing your situation with a wrongful death lawyer can help clarify your options and help your family recover some of the financial losses that resulted.

Proving Wrongful Death Claims

If your loved one died due to someone else’s actions, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Below are some types of evidence that can help support your case:

  • Police Reports: These documents frequently detail how the incident happened and often include eyewitness accounts. 
  • Medical Records: Hospital records outline the nature of the injuries and confirm how the death was caused. 
  • Expert Testimony: Accident reconstructionists and relevant professionals can explain technical details, helping to establish that someone’s wrongdoing led to your loved one’s passing. 
  • Witness Statements: Accounts from those who saw or experienced the event can add credibility to your story. 

Each case is different, and the evidence needed to prove your claim will depend on the specifics of the situation. If you need legal guidance on gathering or presenting evidence for your wrongful death claim, contact us at Lightfoot Law today to schedule a free consultation.