Losing a family member is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. The emotional burden is even more devastating when the death was avoidable, caused by another party’s negligence. At Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers, we offer our sincere condolences. While you take the time to grieve, our Tacoma wrongful death attorneys can help you navigate the legal process with personalized care, compassion, and professionalism.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Washington
In Washington State, wrongful death can arise from a variety of situations. If you suspect that your loved one’s death was caused by negligence, consult our attorney to review the facts in your case at no charge.
- Car accidents: If the driver responsible for the accident was speeding, driving recklessly, or under the influence, they could be liable for a wrongful death.
- Medical malpractice: Healthcare professionals are entrusted with resolving illnesses, injuries, and health conditions. When they fail to meet the accepted standard of care—whether through misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment, or surgical error—they may be liable for wrongful death.
- Nursing home neglect: Elderly loved ones in assisted living facilities deserve attentive care. If neglect or abuse in a nursing home contributed to their death, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim.
- Defective products: Manufacturers have a duty to ensure their products are safe for consumer use. If a defect in a product causes fatal injuries, the company could be held liable for wrongful death.
- Workplace accidents: Employers are responsible for maintaining safe working environments. When safety standards are neglected, and a worker dies, the employer may be held accountable through a wrongful death claim.
After a Wrongful Death
In the aftermath of a wrongful death, knowing how to proceed can be overwhelming. While no legal action can erase your pain, taking the right steps can help provide closure and financial security for your family:
- Seek legal counsel immediately: Time is of the essence in wrongful death cases. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible ensures that the proper steps are taken to preserve evidence and file your claim before the statute of limitations expires.
- Avoid discussing your case: While it’s natural to want to talk about your loved one, avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your lawyer. Public comments, social media posts, or statements made in the wrong context could be used against you.
- Focus on family unity: Strong family support can be invaluable during such a difficult time. Your loved ones help to alleviate the stress while you mourn your loved one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Wrongful Death Claim
When faced with the sudden loss of a loved one, powerful emotions can cloud judgment, leading to decisions that could affect the success of your claim. Avoiding these common mistakes can make a significant difference in the outcome of your wrongful death case:
Working With an Insurance Company Directly
Insurance companies tend to offer a fast, low settlement. An offer could seem to be a lifeline during a difficult time. However, this initial offer is often much lower than could be recovered with the help of our firm. Consulting a wrongful death lawyer before accepting any settlement offer will allow us to fully evaluate your case and pursue the compensation your family will need moving forward.
Statute of Limitations in Washington
In Washington State, you have three years to file a wrongful death claim. It is imperative to file within the time frame imposed by law. Failing to act within that period could mean losing your right to seek justice. Wrongful death claims involve many legal complexities. Having an experienced Tacoma wrongful death lawyer on your side ensures that you have someone fighting for your rights and the maximum compensation available under the law.
