Common Causes of Wrongful Death Claims in Columbus
Losing a loved one is devastating. What can be even more devastating is losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence or misconduct. In Columbus, Ohio, when someone else’s negligence or misconduct results in a loved one’s death, the surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim. While filing a wrongful death claim cannot undo what has already been done, it can help surviving family members get justice and financial compensation. Financial compensation can alleviate the burden of unexpected expenses and financial losses and provide a sense of stability during a challenging time. In Columbus, wrongful death claims can arise from various circumstances. The following are some of the most common causes of wrongful death claims in Columbus, Ohio;
- Car Accidents
Statistics suggest that there are almost 43,000 fatal car accidents in the United States annually. Quite a number of these fatal car accidents occur in Ohio. While fatal car accidents happen for various reasons, including unpreventable ones, many fatal car crashes are caused by the negligence or misconduct of drivers. The following are some of the negligent acts by drivers that can result in fatal car accidents;
- Driving under the influence
- Driving while distracted
- Speeding
- Driving while drowsy
- Tailgating
- Improperly changing lanes
- Disregarding traffic signals
Surviving family members can seek compensation after losing a loved one in a car accident because of the negligence or misconduct of another driver.
- Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are at a high risk of being killed in vehicle accidents. It is estimated that every year, more than 5,000 motorcyclists die in crashes in the U.S. While motorcyclists wear protective gear to reduce the risk of injuries, such as helmets, jackets, and gloves, sometimes this protective gear is not enough to prevent severe or fatal injuries. However, wearing appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of severe or fatal injuries in the event of a crash.
- Pedestrian Accidents
The CDC estimates that almost 8,000 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. in accidents involving vehicles in 2021 alone. Fatal pedestrian accidents occur for various reasons, including distracted driving, driving while under the influence, speeding and reckless driving, and failure to yield to pedestrians.
Navigating the Legal System
Pursuing a wrongful death claim can be challenging. The legal process can be complex. It can be difficult to navigate this complex legal process while mourning a loved one’s death. It is highly advisable to seek the help of a qualified wrongful death lawyer. An attorney can help with, among others, investigations, gathering evidence, filing the claim, and negotiating with the insurance company.
Contact a Columbus Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you’ve lost a loved one due to the negligence or misconduct of another person, contact a qualified Columbus wrongful death lawyer at the law firm of Brian G. Miller CO., L.P.A., to schedule a consultation.
Source:
usatoday.com/money/blueprint/auto-insurance/fatal-car-crash-statistics/#:~:text=There%20are%20nearly%2043%2C000%20fatal%20crashes%20a%20year%20in%20the%20U.S.%2C
