If a family member died as the consequence of someone else’s actions, contact an attorney. You could have grounds to file a wrongful death claim against the person responsible. This type of civil lawsuit is controlled by state laws, with Alabama constituting wrongful death as a “wrongful act, omission, or negligence” that led to a person’s death. The following are a few examples of wrongful death in Alabama that might help you determine if you have a strong case.  

When Are Wrongful Death Claims Filed in Alabama?

Victim Was Deliberately Killed 

If your loved one died as the result of manslaughter or murder, you could take civil action against the person who committed the crime. The wrongful death lawsuit is separate from any charges and convictions against the defendant in a criminal case—if one was also brought. The plaintiff is awarded monetary damages that could pay for the loss of care, income, and guidance that resulted from the death.    

Medical Error Led to Death 

If a person died because of medical malpractice, the surviving family could sue those who provided below-standard levels of care. This could be the case when a doctor misdiagnoses an illness, performs a botched surgery, ignores laboratory results, or prescribes the wrong medication—leading to an adverse reaction that caused death.

Deceased Was Involved in a Traffic Collision 

If your family member died due to injuries sustained in a truck, car, or motorcycle accident, you could take civil action if another driver was at fault. As the burden of proof is placed on the plaintiff, your attorney must provide evidence that the other driver was speeding, distracted, under the influence, or acting recklessly at the time of the accident. If a car defect caused the fatal collision, the manufacturer could be sued for wrongful death.

For legal representation with your wrongful death lawsuit in Alabama, contact the experienced, Gulf Shores-based attorney at Craven & Perry, PLLC. Since 1991, the lawyer has been helping Baldwin County residents with criminal law cases and civil matters. He will work to get your family compensation for your loss. Contact him online, or call (251) 968-8170 to discuss your legal needs. Look for the latest announcements on Facebook.