Wrongful deaths occur when the death of a loved one is caused another’s negligence or wrongful act. Typically, plaintiffs must be immediate family members and adhere to specific time limitations. The lawsuit must demonstrate that the defendant’s actions led to the death and specify damages sought, such as funeral expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. 

Wrongful death claims are common in nursing home abuse and motor vehicle accidents. Nursing home abuse includes physical harm, emotional distress, and neglect. Signs of abuse may involve unexplained injuries, behavioral changes, or poor living conditions. To prove nursing home negligence in a wrongful death claim, plaintiffs must show negligence including a duty of care, breach of that duty, causation, and resulting damages.