WRONGFUL DEATH LAWSUITS IN MISSISSIPPI AND ALABAMA

wrongful death

Wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of another person or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing. This type of tragedy can have a devastating impact on the loved ones of the deceased, as it may leave them to deal with the emotional and financial consequences of the loss.

In most cases, the surviving family members of a wrongful death victim could be entitled to seek compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit.

Laws pertaining to wrongful death can vary from state to state in the US. However, most states follow a similar framework regarding wrongful death claims.

In general, on behalf of the surviving family members, personal representatives of the deceased state will bring in wrongful death lawsuits. This may include the spouse, children, and/or parents of the deceased.

Proving your case

To successfully prove a wrongful death claim, the plaintiff must establish that the defendant’s actions or inactions caused the death of the victim. This means showing that the defendant had a legal duty to act or not act in a certain way, and that they breached this duty, leading to the victim’s death.

For example, if a doctor misdiagnoses a patient’s condition and the patient dies as a result, liability of wrongful death can fall on the doctor.

Compensation for your loss

There are several types of damages that may be available in a wrongful death lawsuit. These may include compensation for the deceased’s medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost wages, as well as damages for the pain and suffering of the surviving family members.

In some instances, the court may also award punitive damages, which are designated to punish the defendant for their behavior and deter others from engaging in similar conduct.

Statutes of limitations

It’s important to note that wrongful death lawsuits are subject to strict time limits, known as statutes of limitations. This means that survivors must file their claim within a certain timeframe after the death occurred.

Unfortunately, failing to file the claim within the appropriate time period can keep survivors from seeking compensation.

In addition to the statute of limitations, there are other factors that may affect the outcome of a wrongful death lawsuit. For example, the court may consider the strength of the evidence, the credibility of the witnesses, and the extent of the damages suffered by the surviving family members.

Consulting with an attorney

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, it is important to speak with a qualified, wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your loss.

Dealing with the aftermath of a wrongful death can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. It’s natural to feel angry, confused, and overwhelmed in the wake of such a tragedy.

However, seeking legal help can provide a sense of closure and justice, and can help to ensure that the responsible party is to be held accountable for their actions. If you are considering a wrongful death lawsuit, it’s important to act quickly, as the statute of limitations may be running out.

An experienced, wrongful death attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can fight to get you the compensation you deserve. So, it is always better to seek legal help as soon as possible.

Contact us online or you can reach us by calling one of our offices in Mississippi or Alabama. To reach our office in Ridgeland, Mississippi call 601-202-1111 and to reach our office in Birmingham, Alabama call 205-250-1107.