An untimely death resulting from negligence can leave families reeling with sadness. Discovering their loved one may not have died if others acted responsibly can prolong suffering and bring feelings of anger.
Families whose loved ones fall victim to another person’s irresponsible and selfish behavior may consider filing a lawsuit. This decision may help to offset the overwhelming collateral damage of losing their family member.
Defining wrongful death
Wrongful deaths can occur because of a defective product or as the result of medical malpractice. Bicycle, motorcycle and pedestrian accidents can also cause preventable tragedies. According to Merriam-Webster, wrongful death can happen as the result of a willful act or due to negligence.
Families seeking to prove that their loved one’s death was the result of another person’s behavior have to establish proof beyond a reasonable doubt. They may consider witness testimonies, investigation reports and their own understanding of their family member’s situation to articulate their reason for believing that their loved one’s death was a wrongful act.
Finding solace and purpose
Coping with grief takes time and may require ongoing intervention and support. The financial and emotional impact of losing a loved one can jeopardize a family’s relationships and quality of life. Filing a wrongful death lawsuit may allow families to acquire some compensation to aid in their effort to heal, grieve and move on.
The American Psychological Association suggests that families also reach out to other people who have gone through similar circumstances. Hearing the stories of other families and receiving encouragement may help people to identify productive strategies to deal with their grief.