Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Massachusetts

Nothing is more tragic than the loss of a loved one, especially when it is due to the negligence or incompetence of another person or entity. Often family members are left to pay huge hospital bills and funeral expenses, which is harder with a new gap in the family income. Although nothing can replace a lost loved one, there are legal options to recover compensation to ease the financial worries of those left behind.

In order to file a wrongful death claim in Massachusetts, the death must be the result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. Also, the statute of limitations states that the claim must be filed within three years from the date of death, or from the date the death first became known. Some of the most common wrongful death claims in Massachusetts include:

• Workplace accidents. Many accidents occur in the workplace when employers fail to meet safety standards.
• Products liability. This deals with products that are unsafe, defective, or fail to warn the consumer of possible safety issues concerning the product. This can be anything from pharmaceutical drugs to baby toys.
• Medical malpractice. Unfortunately, doctors and other health care providers make mistakes. When their treatment falls below the standards expected in the medical community, they become liable.
• Automobile accidents. When people are negligent or careless behind the wheel the results can be fatal.

If you have experienced the loss of a loved one and are not sure whether to file a wrongful death claim, contacting an experienced wrongful death attorney in Massachusetts can help you determine if you have a case.