November 11th, 2021 | Updated on January 23rd, 2023
After heart disease and cancer, accidental fatal injuries are the third leading cause of death in the US. When deaths occur because of an act of negligence by a third party, they are considered wrongful deaths.
These can be particularly devastating for the family of the deceased as, with better care, they could have been prevented.
For employers, health practitioners and anyone who is in a position of responsibility for others, the best way to prepare themselves for a claim for wrongful death is to do everything they can to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Even once a fatal incident occurs, although dealing with the trauma of an untimely and preventable death can be extremely difficult, the devastation it may cause can still be minimized.
Taking Prompt Action To Avoid Further Fatalities
In Texas and several other states, there is a statutory time limit of two years in which close relatives or administrators of the deceased’s estate can file a claim for wrongful death.
While it can seem inappropriate to make a claim for compensation at such a difficult time, consulting with a wrongful death attorney early on will ensure that the circumstances of the death are properly investigated and documented.
In the case of negligent behavior in the workplace or operating theatre, this can help to prevent a similar incident occurring and causing another unnecessary fatality.
It will also mean that, if applicable, a settlement will be reached that can help to alleviate the emotional and financial damage caused as a result of the wrongful death.
Preventing Unnecessary Deaths In The Workplace
According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, there were over 5,000 fatalities in the workplace in 2019. These can occur in a variety of settings and commonly include falls on construction sites, or collisions with commercial vehicles on the road.
While some of these deaths may be unavoidable, many are caused by negligence and could be prevented with better safety goals at work.
As well as clear signage, on the job training and regular safety drills, workplaces are invited to participate in annual safety campaigns. These aim to encourage better health and safety programs and avoid wrongful deaths at work.
Keeping Medical Negligence In Check
In the US, medical errors are a leading cause of fatalities and, due to negligent behavior, these fatalities are often treated as wrongful deaths.
These occur for two principle reasons; taking the wrong action or omitting to undertake an essential action. Often a culture of blame and punishment makes it harder to identify the reasons for these deaths.
By nurturing a better work environment, encouraging the sharing of information and implementing corrective solutions, the safety of patients could be greatly improved.
Dealing with the consequences of a sudden and often traumatic fatality can be very difficult for the surviving family of the deceased.
However, by taking prompt action, other similar incidents could be prevented by holding those responsible to account, and ensuring better safety awareness in the future.
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