Maryland Wrongful Death Attorneys
Also Serving Families in Virginia & Washington DC
The unexpected death of a loved one in an accident can change your life forever. Your family will not only have to deal with the emotional loss, but there may also be serious financial damages that can result from unpaid medical bills, loss of income support, and loss of affection.
If you reside in Maryland, Washington DC, or Virginia, turn to Wilson & Parlett for aggressive legal representation. Our personal injury lawyers have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of spouses and family members who have suffered serious financial damages following the negligent death of a loved one.
Contact Wilson & Parlett or call (301) 231-1737 today for trusted legal support in Waldorf and Upper Marlboro.
Our Approach
Wrongful death cases can be very complex and often require litigation. We thoroughly investigate the claim to determine who may be held liable for causing the accident and death. Depending upon the circumstances, there may be more than one party who must share responsibility for paying compensation to the family or the estate.
Many times, we engage the services of industry experts who can help establish liability. We then determine the full amount of money you are entitled to recover.
Again, this often involves bringing in independent experts to determine the value of lost earnings over an expected lifetime. Once we know how much compensation you are entitled to, we can effectively fight for justice on your behalf.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
At Wilson & Parlett, we handle a wide variety of wrongful death cases. Our team is experienced in representing families who have lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. Here are some of the most common types of wrongful death cases we handle:
Car Accidents
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of wrongful death. Whether the crash is caused by a distracted driver, speeding, or other forms of negligence, we can help families seek justice.Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result in devastating injuries and fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. We handle cases involving trucking company negligence, driver fatigue, and unsafe driving practices.Medical Malpractice
When medical professionals fail to provide the standard of care, it can lead to wrongful death. We assist families in cases involving misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, and more.Workplace Accidents
Fatal accidents in the workplace can happen in various industries, from construction to manufacturing. We help families hold employers accountable for unsafe working conditions and failure to follow safety regulations.Defective Products
If a defective product causes a fatal accident, the manufacturer or seller may be held liable. We handle wrongful death cases related to faulty vehicles, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and more.Nursing Home Abuse
Unfortunately, neglect or abuse in nursing homes can lead to wrongful death. We represent families whose loved ones have died due to substandard care or mistreatment in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.Criminal Acts (Homicides)
In tragic cases of intentional harm or homicide, families can file a wrongful death lawsuit in addition to criminal charges. We support families seeking justice in these devastating situations.
Steps to Take After the Wrongful Death of a Loved One
Losing a loved one unexpectedly can be overwhelming. If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, here are the immediate steps to take:
Seek Medical Care if Needed
If you or anyone else is injured, get medical attention right away.Gather Documents
Collect important documents such as the death certificate, accident reports, and medical records. These are vital for your claim.Consult with a Wrongful Death Attorney
Speak with a qualified attorney to understand your legal rights and options. They can guide you through the process.Preserve Evidence
Preserve any evidence related to the incident, such as photos, videos, medical records, or damaged property. This will strengthen your case.Contact Witnesses or Experts
If possible, reach out to witnesses or experts who can provide valuable testimony about the incident.
How a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help
A skilled wrongful death lawyer can be a powerful ally during this difficult time. Here’s how we can assist you:
Investigating the Cause of Death
We thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death to uncover any evidence of negligence or wrongdoing.Determining Liability
We identify all parties who may be responsible for the death, whether it's an individual, company, or another entity. We may also bring in expert witnesses to help establish liability.Handling Complex Negotiations
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our attorneys are experienced in negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive fair compensation.Offering Emotional and Legal Support
We provide compassionate legal guidance and emotional support as you navigate this challenging time.Maximizing Compensation Claims
Our goal is to help you recover the maximum compensation possible, including economic damages (lost wages, funeral costs) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of companionship).
At Wilson & Parlett, we are committed to helping families seek justice and compensation after the wrongful death of a loved one. Let us support you through this difficult journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Wrongful Death Claims
- What qualifies as a wrongful death?
A wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to the careless, negligent, or intentional acts of another party. Common causes include car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and defective products. If your loved one’s death was caused by the wrongdoing of another, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. - What types of compensation can be awarded in a wrongful death case?
Compensation can vary, but common damages include:- Economic damages: This includes lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, and medical and funeral expenses.
- Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, loss of consortium (companionship), and emotional distress.
- Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, the court may award punitive damages to punish the responsible party.
- Can I file a wrongful death lawsuit if my loved one was partly at fault?
Yes, you can still file a wrongful death lawsuit even if your loved one was partially at fault. In Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC, comparative negligence laws may reduce the amount of compensation you can receive based on the degree of fault assigned to the deceased. However, you may still be entitled to compensation. - How do I prove that my loved one's death was caused by negligence?
To prove negligence in a wrongful death claim, you must show:- The responsible party had a duty of care to the deceased.
- The responsible party breached that duty.
- The breach directly caused your loved one’s death.
- Your family has suffered financially and emotionally as a result of the death.
- Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit?
Typically, immediate family members such as spouses, children, and parents can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, the estate of the deceased may also file a claim on behalf of other potential beneficiaries. A wrongful death attorney can help determine if you are eligible to file based on your relationship to the deceased. - How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington DC?
The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC is generally three years from the date of death. However, this deadline can be affected by various factors, so it is important to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Client-Focused Representation Against Insurance Companies
At Wilson & Parlett, we represent only the surviving members of the victim's family – not the insurance company. Our Maryland wrongful death attorneys have vast experience handling these matters and have successfully settled or litigated wrongful death claims against many of the major insurance companies in the country.
Our firm is well-known in the insurance industry and enjoys a reputation for skilled and aggressive advocacy on behalf of its clients.
While most wrongful death cases settle in negotiations, we have the professional and financial resources to take cases to court when a reasonable settlement cannot be reached. Our goal is to always deliver fair and prompt compensation, whether by settlement or through litigation.
For a Free Consultation, Call (301) 231-1737 or Reach Out Online. No Recovery, No Fee.
