Losing a loved one due to negligence is devastating, compounded by the weight of funeral expenses and outstanding medical bills. While no amount of money can undo what happened, a settlement or court award can ease the financial burdens and provide a sense of justice. A Bridgeport wrongful death lawyer can provide invaluable support during this difficult time.
With the assistance of a compassionate attorney from the Claggett, Sykes & Garza, you may have the opportunity to hold the responsible party accountable for the unjust loss of your beloved family member. Our Bridgeport medical malpractice lawyer, who handles these cases, can help identify the liable parties and build a strong case for financial compensation.
Contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Who Can Pursue a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
A wrongful death occurs when someone’s actions or omissions lead to another person’s death. If you are wondering whether you can pursue a wrongful death case, ask yourself if the deceased could have filed a personal injury claim had they survived the incident.
If the answer is yes, family members, including a spouse, civil partner, or child, may be able to pursue a wrongful death case. The person pursuing damages will need to become an executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate, per Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-555.
Wrongful death claims can stem from various incidents, including premises accidents, defective products, motor vehicle collisions, and medical malpractice. A Bridgeport wrongful death attorney can let you know whether you may be eligible to file a claim.
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Common Types of Wrongful Death Cases in Bridgeport, CT
Various accidents can lead to fatalities, resulting in wrongful death cases. Among the most prevalent types are:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Slip and fall accidents
Our team is ready to assess the viability of your case. If a valid claim exists, we will initiate the legal process and vigorously pursue the compensation you need during this difficult time.
Recoverable Damages in Your Bridgeport Case
A wrongful death lawsuit seeks compensation for the hardships you and your loved one experienced before their passing.
The following damages can be recovered in a civil lawsuit:
- Medical costs before death: You could obtain reimbursement for medical expenses incurred prior to your loved one’s passing.
- Pain and suffering: This broad category refers to the physical and emotional distress your loved one endured.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: These damages are related to your family’s decreased ability to enjoy life.
- Lost future earning capacity: This refers to the financial support your family has lost due to your loved one’s premature death.
- Burial and funeral expenses: Most wrongful death claims include the costs of burial and funeral arrangements.
- Mental anguish: This category of compensation addresses the emotional distress that you and your family have endured.
- Death: Death is the ultimate injury under the law and is compensible in Connecticut.
- Loss of consortium: A spouse or family member may seek this damage for the loss of companionship and support from their loved one.
If your case is successful, the reimbursement for these losses will be directed to the victim’s estate. It will then be distributed as per the deceased person’s will or intestacy law. Your Bridgeport wrongful death attorney will provide further insights into the specific process for your case.
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Helpful Evidence in a Bridgeport Wrongful Death Case
Building a compelling case after the loss of a loved one requires gathering key pieces of evidence.
An experienced attorney from the Claggett, Sykes & Garza can leverage various forms of evidence, including:
- Surveillance footage: Your attorney might review CCTV recordings from nearby establishments to construct a timeline of events leading to the incident and to identify potential witnesses.
- Eyewitness testimonies: You or your attorney will ideally get statements from individuals present at the accident scene to gain insights into the factors contributing to your loved one’s tragic death.
- Expert witness analysis: Our team often consults with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, to provide their opinions on the circumstances leading to your loved one’s passing.
- Medical records: Our attorneys review all relevant medical documents and records to understand the extent of your loved one’s injuries and the medical care they received. This helps establish the link between the at-fault party’s negligence and the fatal outcome.
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Proving Negligence in a Wrongful Death Case
In order to establish liability in your case, your Bridgeport wrongful death lawyer must demonstrate negligence.
This involves establishing four crucial elements:
- Duty of care: The person or entity responsible for your loved one’s harm must have had an obligation to prevent harm to others.
- Breach of duty: This same party must have violated the duty of care through negligent actions or a failure to act responsibly.
- Causation: Your lawyer must present evidence that the individual’s actions directly resulted in your loved one’s death.
- Damages: The loss of your loved one must have led to financial and non-financial hardships for you and your family.
When these elements align in your Bridgeport, CT, case, you may be eligible for fair compensation for your losses.
Time Limit for Taking Legal Action in Connecticut
Connecticut has a statute of limitations for wrongful death claims designed to preserve evidence and prevent delayed lawsuits following an incident. The statute requires you to initiate your claim within two years of the victim’s passing or five years of the fatal event.
While the two-year deadline is stringent, the unique circumstances of your Bridgeport wrongful death case may either extend or shorten the time you have to file. Failing to file within the allowable time frame can result in the dismissal of even the most robust claims.
The looming deadline underscores the importance of consulting with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.
Seek Justice With a Wrongful Death Attorney Serving Bridgeport
The sudden loss of a loved one due to another party’s negligence may form the foundation for a wrongful death lawsuit. This kind of legal action allows bereaved family members to secure compensation for unpaid medical expenses and other financial needs.
The attorneys at Claggett, Sykes & Garza are ready to stand by your side and hold the negligent party accountable for the death of your family member. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Bridgeport wrongful death lawyer today and arrange a free consultation.
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