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Losing a loved one is one of life’s most challenging experiences. It becomes even more painful when their death is due to the negligence or carelessness of another person, company, or agency. In such a situation, you might feel like you have nowhere to turn, but there is help available.

At Paulozzi LPA Injury Lawyers, our knowledgeable and experienced team is ready to guide you through this difficult time. We are committed to ensuring that you and your family receive the compensation you deserve. If you need an Ohio wrongful death attorney, reach out to us so we can start working on your case.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Wrongful death cases arise when a person loses their life due to the negligence of another individual, company, or agency. These cases are typically brought by surviving family members or the estate of the deceased.

It is important to consult with a qualified attorney before making any decisions regarding your case. While this list is not exhaustive, some common causes of wrongful death include:

  • Vehicle Accidents: Driver negligence, such as impaired driving, distracted driving, and speeding, often leads to fatal accidents.
  • Defective Products: When you check the government recall, many dangerous products reach the market due to poor design, manufacturing errors, or incorrect labeling.
  • Workplace Accidents: Employers must provide proper training and equipment to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.
  • Medical Mistakes: The third leading cause of death in the United States is medical mistakes. Medical errors, including medication errors, surgical errors, and misdiagnosis, are a leading cause of death in the United States.
  • Law Enforcement: Excessive force by law enforcement and corrections personnel can result in fatalities, necessitating accountability.
  • Nursing Home Abuse: Elder abuse is widespread and often underreported, especially in nursing homes, making it a serious issue.

Taking the Next Steps

Our team is dedicated to investigating what happened and securing the compensation you deserve. This may include:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of income and benefits
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Loss of companionship damages
  • Punitive damages against responsible parties

If you need an Ohio wrongful death attorney, contact us by clicking here or calling 888-710-0040.

Does Wrongful Death Only Apply to Intentional Acts?

No, wrongful death claims can be filed for both intentional acts and negligent actions that result in someone’s death. For example, if a loved one is struck and killed by a vehicle while walking, it may still be considered wrongful death, even if unintentional. 

Additionally, unintentional killings during criminal activities can also be grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.

Can I File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit If Criminal Charges Are Not Filed?

A common cause of wrongful death lawsuits involves deaths during criminal acts. Even if the individual responsible is not convicted of a crime, you can still file a wrongful death lawsuit. 

These lawsuits are civil matters, not criminal. A famous example is the wrongful death lawsuit against OJ Simpson, who was found liable for Ron Goldman’s death despite his acquittal in the criminal case.

Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim for a Deceased Friend?

Ohio law allows only certain individuals to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Eligible parties include the deceased person’s spouse, children (including adopted children), and surviving parents. Unfortunately, friends, regardless of closeness, cannot file a wrongful death lawsuit.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for an Ohio Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Ohio Revised Code Section 2125 sets a two-year statute of limitations for most wrongful death claims. However, in cases involving dangerous or defective products, this period can extend to 10 years after the death, beginning from the date the product was first purchased or last used.

 

Will People Think I’m Trying to Benefit from My Loved One’s Death?

If you believe another person’s negligence caused your loved one’s death, you should not hesitate to seek legal assistance. You must prioritize what is best for your family, as you may be eligible for:

  • Loss of society, companionship, consortium, guidance, counsel, training, and education
  • Loss of support from the deceased’s earning capacity
  • Loss of services provided by the deceased
  • Loss of prospective inheritance from the deceased

Mental anguish suffered by surviving spouses, children, or parents

If you need further assistance, please contact our Ohio wrongful death attorneys for a consultation.

 

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