Wrongful Death Lawyer Parkville, MD

When you lose someone you love in an avoidable accident, the grief and loss you feel are compounded by a sense of anger and injustice. You may wonder what you can do to hold the person responsible for your loved one’s death accountable for their actions. Or, if they passed away due to corporate neglect, such as from a defective consumer product or contaminated food or drink, you could be left wondering if a giant corporate monolith can even be held accountable.

That’s where the legal team at Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC, comes in. We can file a wrongful death lawsuit on your behalf against the at-fault person or entity responsible for your loved one’s death, even if that entity is a product manufacturer, healthcare facility, or other commercial or government organization. We’re not afraid of tough opponents and are determined to demand justice for you and your family. A wrongful death claim can financially compensate you for the loss of your loved one, and while we know that no sum of money replaces the person you lost, we believe that negligent people should have to pay for the damages they cause. Contact us today to learn more in a free consultation with a Parkville, MD, wrongful death lawyer.

How Can A Parkville Wrongful Death Lawyer Help Me?

After losing someone close to you, you may not be thinking about filing a lawsuit, but it’s a consideration you should explore sooner rather than later, as you only have three years from the date your loved one died to file legal action. However, the longer you wait, the more likely it is that valuable evidence will disappear or witness memories fade. When you work with our firm for your wrongful death suit, you don’t have to worry about collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, or even what comes next – we handle all legal matters pertaining to your case and can even be your point of contact with the other party. This preserves your family’s peace so that you can grieve privately.

We build a strong case of negligence against the at-fault person, using the evidence we collect and the fine points of Maryland law to present it before a judge and jury. Our attorneys draft the legal motions necessary to advance your claim and can negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party or take the case to trial. We’re on your side, defending your interests and protecting you through the legal process.

Legal Advice For Wrongful Death Cases In Maryland

Wrongful death cases are civil matters, not criminal, although, in some wrongful death cases, the defendant may face criminal charges as well. The purpose of a wrongful death suit is twofold:

First, although we understand how difficult it feels to put a dollar value on your loved one’s life, the fact is that their untimely loss may have left your family unfairly burdened financially, and the negligent party should rectify that.

Secondly, a civil suit may be the only way to hold the negligent party accountable. The evidence we present exposes their neglect or wrongdoing and can help prevent future losses. We help you get justice.

Do You Need An Attorney For A Wrongful Death Case?

Have you lost someone you love because of the oversight or negligence of another party? Do you want to learn about your options after someone close to you passed away? No matter how complex the case, the legal team at Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC, is ready to take it on and help your family achieve justice and a fair settlement. Contact our firm today for an appointment with a compassionate Parkville wrongful death lawyer.

Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Wrongful Death Claim In Maryland

Our Parkville, MD wrongful death lawyer understands that losing a loved one due to someone else’s actions is an incredibly difficult experience. In Maryland, families who have lost someone under these circumstances may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. However, there are specific time limits within which such claims must be filed, referred to as the statute of limitations. Failing to meet these deadlines can impact your ability to seek justice and recover compensation. Wrongful death can occur due to accidents such as car accidents, slip and fall, or pdesrian accidents. Whatever happened, give us a call for a free consultation to see how we can help. 

Time Limits For Filing A Wrongful Death Claim

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally three years from the date of the person’s death. This means the lawsuit must be initiated within this timeframe to be considered by the court. The clock starts on the date of death, not the date of the accident or incident that led to the loss.

While three years may seem like a long time, it’s important to act promptly. Building a case requires gathering evidence, reviewing records, and identifying responsible parties, all of which can take time. Starting the process early helps avoid complications that can arise from waiting too long.

Exceptions To The Statute Of Limitations

There are certain exceptions where the statute of limitations may be extended or applied differently. One such exception involves cases where the wrongful death resulted from exposure to toxic substances, such as asbestos. In these situations, the three-year period may begin on the date the harm was discovered, rather than the date of death.

Another exception involves minors who may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. If the eligible plaintiff is under 18 at the time of death, the statute of limitations may be extended to account for their age. These exceptions are limited and require careful analysis to determine their applicability.

Impact Of Missing The Deadline

Our Parkville wrongful death lawyer knows that if a wrongful death claim is filed after the statute of limitations has expired, the court will likely dismiss the case. This means the family loses the opportunity to pursue compensation for losses such as funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional pain. Adhering to the time limits is critical to preserving your legal rights and holding responsible parties accountable.

Who Can File A Wrongful Death Claim In Maryland

Maryland law specifies who is eligible to bring a wrongful death claim. Primary beneficiaries include the spouse, children, and parents of the deceased. If no primary beneficiaries exist, secondary beneficiaries, such as siblings or other relatives, may be eligible under certain circumstances. These rules are important to consider when determining who has the legal standing to file a claim.

Taking Action After A Loss

The loss of a loved one is a life-changing event, and taking legal action may not be the first thing on your mind. However, understanding the statute of limitations and acting within the required timeframe is crucial for protecting your family’s future. At Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC, we are here to help you through this difficult time. When you have questions, such as who may file a wrongful death claim, give our office a call. Our team has settled over $100,000,000. Contact our Parkville wrongful death lawyer today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist in seeking justice for your loved one. Let’s work together to take the steps needed to move forward.

Grounds For Wrongful Death Lawsuits

A Parkville, MD wrongful death lawyer can pursue legal action on behalf of a family when their loved one dies as a result of another person’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Fatal accidents can occur in various ways, and the legal recourse available to surviving family members often hinges on the cause of the death. The four most common types of fatal accidents that result in wrongful death cases include motor vehicle accidents, workplace accidents, slip and fall accidents, and medical malpractice. Each of these accidents involves distinct legal considerations and responsibilities, but they all have the potential to cause significant harm to surviving families. For more details about your specific situation, contact Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are among the leading causes of fatal accidents, making up a significant portion of wrongful death cases. Whether caused by negligence, recklessness, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, fatal car, truck, and motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries.

• Common Causes: Speeding, distracted driving (such as texting or talking on the phone), drunk driving, and reckless driving are some of the most common causes of fatal motor vehicle accidents. Poor road conditions, defective vehicle parts, and driver fatigue can also contribute to fatal crashes.
• Impact of Negligence: In wrongful death cases stemming from motor vehicle accidents, the at-fault party’s negligence is often the focus. For instance, if a driver causes a fatal accident by running a red light or driving while impaired, the surviving family members may have a case for wrongful death against the responsible party, which could include the driver, a manufacturer (in the case of defective parts), or even an employer (if the driver was on duty at the time of the accident).

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice is a major cause of wrongful death, occurring when healthcare providers fail to provide the standard of care required, resulting in fatal injuries. Medical malpractice claims are often complex, requiring an in-depth understanding of medical procedures, standards of care, and negligence.

• Common Causes: Medical malpractice can result from errors in diagnosis, surgical mistakes, medication errors, or failure to provide proper treatment. For example, a doctor might misdiagnose a treatable condition, perform surgery on the wrong body part, or prescribe the wrong medication, leading to a fatal outcome. Other common cases of medical malpractice leading to wrongful death include birth injuries caused by negligent prenatal or postnatal care.
• Negligence in Healthcare: Healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, hospitals, and medical facilities, are required to meet certain standards of care when treating patients. When these standards are not met—whether due to negligence, lack of knowledge, or failure to follow proper procedures—patients may suffer fatal injuries. In such cases, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible medical professional or institution. A Parkville wrongful death lawyer can evaluate the case and determine what legal remedies are available. 

Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents can also lead to wrongful death cases, particularly in industries where hazardous conditions are common. While workers’ compensation may provide benefits for workplace fatalities, wrongful death lawsuits can be pursued if there is evidence of negligence, unsafe working conditions, or third-party involvement.

• Common Causes: Workplace accidents leading to wrongful death can occur in construction sites, factories, warehouses, and other high-risk environments. Common causes include falls from heights, exposure to toxic chemicals, machinery malfunctions, inadequate safety protocols, or lack of proper training. Fatal accidents may also occur in offices if negligence is involved in maintaining a safe work environment.
• Employer Responsibility: Employers have a duty to ensure the safety of their workers by providing proper safety equipment, training, and protocols. If an employer fails to meet these obligations and an accident results in a worker’s death, the surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim against the employer or even third parties responsible for unsafe working conditions or defective equipment.

Slip And Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents are another common cause of wrongful death claims, particularly in situations where property owners or businesses fail to maintain a safe environment for visitors. These accidents may result from wet floors, uneven pavement, or poorly lit areas.

• Common Causes: Slip-and-fall accidents can occur in various places, including grocery stores, restaurants, sidewalks, hospitals, and private homes. If a property or business owner fails to address dangerous conditions—such as neglecting to clean up spills, repair broken steps, or put up warning signs—those injured may have grounds for a wrongful death case.
• Liability for Property Owners: Property owners are legally responsible for maintaining safe premises for visitors. If a person dies as a result of slipping, tripping, or falling due to unsafe conditions, the property owner may be held liable for wrongful death if it can be proven that they were negligent in maintaining their property.

Let Our Firm Help

Fatal accidents are tragic events that can have a profound impact on families and loved ones. At Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC, we know that no amount of money will ever make up for the loss of a loved one, but a wrongful death lawsuit is often the only type of justice families receive. Call our office today to meet with a skilled Parkville wrongful death lawyer for a free and confidential case evaluation.