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Understanding Maryland Wrongful Death Cases

| Category: Car Accidents | May 14, 2021

Thankfully, most accidents result only in injuries, and most people will eventually make a full recovery. Unfortunately, some accidents can result in death, including situations where the victim succumbs to their injuries long after the accident. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. A Waldorf wrongful death lawyer can review your case and help you understand your options. 

Wrongful Death Explained

A wrongful death is a death that is caused by an intentional act or negligence. It can include criminal acts but also grow out of personal injury cases. Wrongful death claims are cases where the victim’s family can pursue a monetary claim against the responsible party for the death of their loved one and the related financial losses. As a result, wrongful death cases can arise from almost any type of incident, including the following: 

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s actions or negligence, you should speak with a Waldorf wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. 

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim?

Generally speaking, Maryland law limits who can pursue a wrongful death claim to the victim’s immediate family. Maryland law divides potential claimants into two categories: 

  1. Primary beneficiaries: the spouse, parent, and child of the victim; 
  2. Secondary beneficiaries: any person related to the victim by blood or marriage who was substantially dependent upon the victim. 

It is perhaps not surprising that wrongful death claims are limited to the immediate members of the victim’s family. However, it is worth noting that unmarried people may be excluded from pursuing a wrongful death claim, even if they were in a long-term relationship with the victim. A Waldorf wrongful death lawyer can review your case and determine whether you have the right to pursue a claim. 

The Statute of Limitations

Just about every type of legal claim must be filed by a specific deadline, referred to as the statute of limitations. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of death. You must file your lawsuit within that time period, or you will lose all rights to your claim, regardless of how strong your case may be. 

You May Be Entitled to Compensation

Under the law, wrongful death claims are an attempt to compensate people for the loss of a loved one. As a result, you can seek compensation for the following losses in a wrongful death claim: 

  • Any medical expenses incurred before the victim’s death
  • Ambulance costs
  • Funeral expenses
  • Any pain and suffering experienced by the victim before death
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of current income
  • Loss of future income, including retirement benefits and investment income

Determining the value of a wrongful death claim is a complex calculation. An experienced Waldorf wrongful death lawyer can make sure you get the compensation you are entitled to. 

Contact Waldorf Wrongful Death Lawyer Thomas E. Pyles

Wrongful death cases are complex, but an experienced Waldorf wrongful death lawyer can ensure your rights are protected. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today at 301-705-5006 to schedule a free consultation.