When someone suffers a wrongful death, it becomes a painful challenge for their family. They lost a loved one, and they may also be struggling to understand what happened and why. The situation would be even more complicated if the deceased were the family’s source of financial support.
In the state of Washington, several things can lead to wrongful death. Some causes are more obvious than others. But all of them can devastate a family. We will take a closer look at wrongful deaths and their leading causes.
What is Wrongful Death in the State of Washington?
According to Washington State laws, wrongful death occurs when an individual dies due to another person’s negligence, wrongful act, or misconduct. In this situation, the surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim to recover damages.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Someone from the estate of the person who died is responsible for filing a wrongful death claim in the state of Washington. The following people can file the claim in the state of Washington:
- Spouse
- Domestic partner registered with the state
- Children or stepchildren
The parents or siblings can file a wrongful death lawsuit if the deceased has no children or partner. Filing the claim can be essential in getting justice for victims and their loved ones. It can also help provide financial security for the family members left behind.
What Causes Wrongful Death in Washington State?
There are many different ways that someone can die due to another person’s negligence or misconduct. The common causes of wrongful deaths in Washington include:
Car Accidents
Car accidents are among the leading causes of wrongful death in Washington. If a driver is negligently operating their vehicle, they may be held liable for any resulting deaths.
The situation highlights the importance of being aware of the dangers of driving and taking precautions to avoid accidents. You can stay safe on the road by doing the following:
- Obeying the speed limit and other traffic laws
- Paying aware of your surroundings and being cautious
- Avoiding distractions while driving
- Not driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
If everyone took these simple steps, it would reduce the number of car accidents and resulting wrongful deaths in Washington.
Medical Malpractice
A medical malpractice situation occurs when a healthcare professional provides substandard care, leading to a patient’s death. Medical malpractice could include errors made during surgery, misdiagnosis of an illness, or failure to treat a condition properly.
Workplace Accidents
Accidents that occur in the workplace can sometimes be fatal. If an employer fails to provide a safe work environment or adequate safety equipment, they may be held liable for any resulting deaths.
The workplace can be dangerous, and employers need to take the necessary steps to ensure their employees are safe. Some of the ways employers can ensure a safe workplace include:
- Providing safety equipment, such as goggles and helmets, when necessary
- Installing safety features in the workplace, such as guardrails and safety netting
- Training employees on how to safely perform their duties
- Conducting regular safety inspections
By taking these steps, employers can help reduce the risk of workplace accidents and fatalities.
If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you should speak with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. The attorney can also help you navigate the complicated legal system and build a strong compensation case. Schedule a consultation today.
