Warwick Wrongful Death Attorney
Fighting For Those Who Have Lost Loved Ones Due to Negligence in Rhode Island
Losing a loved one is one of life’s most devastating experiences, especially when the negligence or misconduct of another party causes that loss. The emotional toll can be very overwhelming, and the financial implications can add to the hindrance of grief. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we recognize the profound effect a wrongful death can have on families and surrounding areas. Our Warwick wrongful death lawyer is committed to delivering compassionate support while aggressively pursuing justice on your behalf. We understand that navigating the complexities of wrongful death claims can be very daunting, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Call Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. today at (401) 200-4059 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our wrongful death lawyer in Warwick.
What is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death often occurs when an individual dies as a result of another person’s or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. This could involve a variety of circumstances, from fatal car accidents to medical malpractice. Unlike criminal cases, wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits, meaning they focus on seeking monetary compensation rather than criminal penalties.
The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to help surviving family members recover financially and emotionally from the loss. In Rhode Island, wrongful death laws enable certain individuals to file a lawsuit and pursue damages from the liable party.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Common causes may include:
- Car Accidents: Fatal motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of wrongful death claims. These can involve reckless or distracted driving, driving under the influence, and poor road conditions.
- Medical Malpractice: Healthcare professionals have a duty to deliver a standard level of care, and failing to do so can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Wrongful death claims may stem from surgical errors, misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, or prescription errors.
- Workplace Accidents: Fatal workplace incidents, especially in high-risk industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation, can lead to wrongful death claims. Employers may be liable if safety regulations were not followed or if proper equipment was not provided.
- Defective Products: Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products. When a defective product causes a fatal injury, surviving family members could have grounds for a wrongful death claim against those involved in the product’s distribution chain.
- Premises Liability: Property owners have a responsibility to keep visitors in a safe environment. Slip-and-fall accidents, faulty construction, inadequate security, and hazardous conditions on a property can all lead to wrongful death claims.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In the state of Rhode Island, only certain individuals are qualified to file a wrongful death claim. Generally, the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit lies with the deceased person’s estate and certain close family members. The following parties may be eligible:
- Spouse: The surviving spouse of the deceased is often the primary party eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
- Children: Surviving children of the deceased, including adult children, may also have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.
- Parents: If the deceased was a minor or had no surviving spouse or children, the parents may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Claim?
Damages available in a wrongful death claim could vary but often include the following:
- Medical Expenses: Any medical fees incurred before the deceased person passed away can be included in a wrongful death claim. This includes hospital bills, treatments, and emergency care.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Wrongful death claims can provide funds to cover the expenses that are related to the funeral and burial services.
- Lost Income: If the deceased was a financial provider for the family, a wrongful death claim can help compensate for the income they would have earned had they lived.
- Loss of Benefits: Surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for benefits they would have received, such as health insurance, retirement benefits, and pensions.
- Loss of Companionship: Wrongful death damages often include compensation for the emotional loss, affection, and companionship the deceased would have supplied to their loved ones.
- Pain and Suffering: In some instances, families may recover damages for the emotional pain and suffering they experience due to the loss.
Contact Our Wrongful Death Lawyer in Warwick Today
If you have lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence or wrongdoing, you deserve answers, accountability, and support. Our Warwick wrongful death attorney at Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. is here to guide you through the wrongful death claim process and fight for the justice you and your family deserve. We know the profound impact of a sudden loss, and we are committed to helping you hold those responsible accountable while working toward financial security for your future. Let us help you navigate this difficult time and take the first step toward justice and closure for your family.
Contact Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. today to get started with our Warwick wrongful death attorney.