What is a Wrongful Death Claim from Slips and Accidents?

Falls are the third leading cause of death resulting from unintentional injury in the state of North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Health and Human Services Department. Among seniors 65-and older, falls are the leading cause of injury death.  Falls can also be especially fatal for young children.

When a fall causes a fatal injury to occur, it is very important to understand how the law protects surviving family members. If the fall occurred as a result of negligence or wrongdoing, the negligent person or company responsible for the fall could be forced to pay wrongful death damages. This compensation helps the families of victims to avoid financial hardship. Family members may also receive compensation for non-economic damages arising from the loss of an important relationship.

Property owners and renters could be held liable for a fall and made to pay compensation. The rules used to determine liability are called Premises Liability Laws. These laws establish the obligations property owners have to prevent falls and other injuries, such as correcting hazardous conditions that might lead to a deadly slip-and-fall or at least warning visitors about the hazard.

In order for a wrongful death claim to be successful in obtaining compensation for the family of a fall victim, the plaintiff in the case must prove the property owner negligently or intentionally failed to fulfill basic safety obligations. A Charlotte wrongful death lawyer can provide help to fall victims and their families in pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death claim.