As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic kept us indoors for the majority of 2020, and this was evident in the comparatively low levels of traffic we saw in Maryland all last year. However, despite the decline in motorists on the road, there was still a significant uptick in nationwide auto accident fatalities in 2020, as compared with 2019. In fact, there were over 42,000 auto accident fatalities in 2020, up from roughly 39,000 auto accident fatalities in 2019. Though this may seem perplexing, we can guarantee that a significant cause of the uptick in auto accidents is the direct result of more motorists failing to obey the rules and regulations of the road by speeding, driving while intoxicated, driving while distracted, and more. If your loved one has recently lost his or her life in an auto accident, our Maryland personal injury attorney is here to help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Maryland?
As long as you are the deceased party’s spouse, parent, or child, you should be allowed to bring a wrongful death claim against the negligent party. That being said, if the deceased individual did not have living parents, children, or a spouse, and you are another relative of the decedent who was financially dependent on the decedent, you should have the right to bring a wrongful death claim as well.
What damages are recoverable in a wrongful death claim?
Though the compensation you may receive from a wrongful death claim can never truly replace a lost loved one, it can help offset some of the emotional and financial burdens you may incur. In a successful wrongful death claim, you may recover compensation for the medical care your loved one received before passing away, funeral expenses, a loss of income as a result of your loved one’s passing, emotional distress, the loss of companionship, and more.
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Maryland?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Maryland is, generally, three years, meaning that in most cases, you will have three years from the date of death to bring a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party. Though we know these are difficult times, the sooner you speak with a compassionate Maryland personal injury attorney, the sooner our firm can begin working towards the compensation you and your family deserve. Give us a call today so we can get started.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Anne Arundel County and Howard County, Maryland who need legal assistance for criminal defense or personal injury matters. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
