In the devastating event of the loss of a loved one in a drunk driving crash, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Figuring out funerals, bills, insurance policies, the loss of wages, and more while dealing with grief is a lot for anyone to handle. Filing a Maryland wrongful death claim against a drunk driver or another person responsible for the loss of a loved one may be one way to ease the financial burden and hold those at fault responsible for the crash.
Wrongful death claims may be filed in Maryland generally by a spouse, parent, or child of the deceased, who are considered primary plaintiffs under Maryland’s wrongful death statute. A secondary plaintiff—another family member who was substantially dependent on the victim—generally may file a wrongful death claim if no primary plaintiff exists. Only one wrongful death lawsuit can be filed arising from one victim’s death.
What Do Grieving Families Need to Know About Maryland Wrongful Death Cases?
Wrongful death lawsuits allow family members who suffered a loss to recover compensation for their losses. It also acts as a way to hold responsible parties liable for a loved one’s death. In general, a Maryland wrongful death claim must be filed within three years of the death of the deceased. Plaintiffs may be able to recover compensation for their own pain and suffering, loss of companionship, loss of care, lost income, and other damages.
Plaintiffs are responsible for proving all of the elements of a wrongful death claim, including what the defendant’s negligent actions were that caused the decedent’s death. This may require the assistance of experts, witnesses, and investigators to recreate what occurred. Defendants may also argue that the deceased was partially at fault, in an attempt to shield themselves from liability.
Maryland Fatal Motorcycle Crash Involved Suspected Drunk Driver
Police are investigating a recent Maryland motorcycle crash involving a suspected drunk driver. According to police, a preliminary investigation showed that the crash occurred after a motorcycle was rear-ended by a Dodge Charger on I-95 in Elkridge, Maryland. The driver of the Dodge Charger continued after hitting the motorcycle and hit a Ford Escape. The driver of the Dodge Charger continued driver for about three-quarters of a mile until it pulled over on the right shoulder. The driver and passenger of the Ford Escape were not injured but the motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. The motorcyclist was 37 years old and lived in Baltimore. Police arrested the driver of the Dodge Charger and believe that speed and alcohol contributed t the crash. An investigation is ongoing.
Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Fighting for Victims
If an individual is injured in a Maryland motorcycle crash with a suspected drunk driver or in another type of accident, the victim or their families members may be able to recover compensation by filing a Maryland injury claim. The Maryland personal injury lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC are experts in the field of motor vehicle accidents. Their attorneys have decades of combined experience representing accident victims in personal injury cases throughout the region. To schedule a free consultation, call them at 800-654-1949 or fill out their online form.