Losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence is devastating. In addition to the emotional pain, surviving family members often face unexpected financial burdens, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income their loved one provided.
While no legal action can undo such a tragedy, a wrongful death claim may help families pursue financial compensation and hold the responsible party accountable. Understanding when a wrongful death claim may apply is an important first step if you believe negligence played a role in your loved one’s death.
What Is a Wrongful Death Case?
A wrongful death case is a civil legal claim that arises when someone dies because of another person or organization’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. Unlike a criminal case, which seeks to punish the wrongdoer, a wrongful death lawsuit is intended to compensate certain surviving family members for the losses they have suffered.
In Minnesota, wrongful death claims are governed by state law, and only certain individuals may bring a claim on behalf of surviving family members. An experienced wrongful death attorney can explain whether your family may have a valid claim and what legal options are available.
1. Fatal Car Accidents Caused by Negligent Drivers
Motor vehicle accidents are among the most common causes of wrongful death claims. Every day, drivers make careless decisions that put others at risk.
Examples of negligent driving include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Speeding
- Distracted driving, including texting behind the wheel
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Fatigued driving
- Aggressive or reckless driving
When a driver causes a fatal crash through negligent behavior, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver and, in some cases, other responsible parties.
2. Fatal Medical Errors
Although healthcare providers strive to provide safe treatment, preventable medical mistakes still occur. In some situations, these errors can be fatal.
Medical malpractice that may lead to a wrongful death claim includes:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Surgical mistakes
- Medication errors
- Birth injuries resulting in infant death
- Failure to properly monitor a patient’s condition
- Anesthesia errors
Medical malpractice cases are often complex because they require evidence that a healthcare provider failed to meet the accepted standard of care. These claims typically involve extensive medical records and expert testimony.
3. Deadly Workplace or Construction Accidents
Some occupations involve significant safety risks, especially construction, manufacturing, transportation, and industrial work. Employers and third parties have a responsibility to maintain reasonably safe working conditions.
Wrongful death cases may arise when fatalities result from:
- Falls from heights
- Defective machinery or equipment
- Electrocution
- Falling objects
- Unsafe job sites
- Explosions or fires
While workers’ compensation benefits may be available after a fatal workplace accident, some families may also have a wrongful death claim against a third party whose negligence contributed to the incident.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Minnesota law establishes specific procedures for wrongful death claims. Rather than individual family members filing directly, a court-appointed trustee generally brings the claim on behalf of the surviving spouse, children, parents, or other eligible next of kin.
Because every family’s situation is unique, determining who may recover compensation can be complicated. Speaking with an attorney early in the process can help ensure your family’s rights are protected.
Contact Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys for a Free Consultation with Our Minneapolis Wrongful Death Lawyers
If you have lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence, you do not have to face the legal process alone. The compassionate team at Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys understands the challenges families experience after an unexpected loss and is committed to helping you understand your legal options.
Our Minneapolis wrongful death lawyers will handle the legal process while you focus on honoring your loved one’s memory and caring for your family.
For more information, please contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer at Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have three convenient locations in Minnesota, including Minneapolis, St. Cloud, and Edina.
We proudly serve Hennepin County, Stearns County, and their surrounding areas:
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – Minneapolis
825 Nicollet Mall, Suite 615, Minneapolis, MN 55402
(800) 292-1979
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 44.97514068188609, -93.27349979814521
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – St. Cloud
1010 W St Germain St # 320, St Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 255-1000
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 45.55903612908877, -94.16420517306956
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – Edina
5200 Willson Rd #203, Edina, MN 55424
(952) 697-5560
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 44.90963991439301, -93.34937342327198