How common are wrongful death cases in Joplin MO? Joplin wrongful death lawyers report that over the past several years, 90 percent of all lawsuits involving medical malpractice have involved a wrongful death (or a permanent disability) caused by negligence.
In 2008, the U.S. Department of Transportation reported the national highway wrongful death count to be 37,261. What this means is that these thirty seven thousand people were killed by the negligence of someone else. Although this number is quite high, it is actually lower than the figures from 2007 and 2006.
And although traffic accident fatalities were down, the CDC reported prescription drug wrongful deaths actually rose by 68% in a five year period.
In Missouri, 1,257 people were killed (wrongful death) in traffic accidents in 2005. The main causes of these fatalities were speeding, and driving too fast for road conditions. Approximately 25% involved drinking alcohol or using drugs. These are all considered "wrongful death" because they happen due to the negligence of another party.
As you can see, there are many different causes of Joplin wrongful death suits.
What is a wrongful death suit?
It is sad enough to lose a loved one under any circumstances, but when your family member's death is the result of someone else's negligence, that is an even worse tragedy. Not only must you deal with the shock, trauma and loss, you must also deal with the financial realities of the situation. Although a human being's life cannot be given a dollar amount, Missouri law does allow for compensation to the surviving family in such cases, via a "wrongful death" lawsuit.
This is lawsuit filed in civil court between the family of someone who has died, and the person, company or organization they believe responsible for the death. Wrongful death can be classified as either negligent or intentional, but the main factor is that the actions of some one lead to the death of someone else.
Examples of wrongful death include:
• Medical Malpractice
• Drunk Driver car crashes
• Acts of violence, or murder
• Product liability
• Workplace negligence
• And many more...
Missouri has specific laws pertaining to who can file a wrongful death suit. Potential "takers" may include parents, spouse, children, brothers, sisters or others. Each category of "takers" is exclusive. For example, if the deceased has a spouse, the spouse may be able to receive compensation to the exclusion of a brother or sister.
This money is compensation for any medical or funeral expenses, loss of education and training, and loss of income that the deceased would have brought in. Grief is not a factor in determining compensation under the Missouri Wrongful Death Statute.
If you have lost a family member due to someone else's negligence in an auto accident, a drunk driving accident, or any other type of accident--should you file a wrongful death suit? Joplin wrongful death lawyers know that every case is completely different, and needs to be handled individually based on the circumstances. The best way to have all your questions answered, and know if you have a wrongful death claim, is to have a free evaluation of your case with an attorneys. There is never any pressure or obligation--just the straight answers you need.
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