If you believe that your loved one suffered from wrongful death in the state of Maryland, it is good to know the laws based around wrongful death suits. Often, wrongful death claims in Maryland are there to compensate the family members of the deceased for their suffering. Here is what you need to know about wrongful death claims in Maryland.
Actions
The state of Maryland separates wrongful death claims into two categories:
- Survival Actions: These are the actions that are brought on behalf of the deceased person’s estate (money and property owned by that person). The damages that can be compensated for these actions include all the funeral expenses as well as medical expenses directly related to their death. Compensation can also be provided for the deceased person’s suffering before their death.
- Wrongful Death Actions: These actions are for the family of the deceased person. They are brought on in order to compensate the family for their losses and suffering directly associated with the death of their loved one. These damages could include anything from lost wages due to missed work to emotional compensation for their loss.
Who Can File The Claim?
Only certain people can file a claim for wrongful death. There are two types of people that can file a wrongful death claim, known as primary and secondary beneficiaries.
- Primary Beneficiaries: These people are the direct family of the deceased. This includes the spouse, parents, and children. If any of the primary beneficiaries are still alive, they are the ones who can file the wrongful death claim. The damages awarded will go straight to them.
- Secondary Beneficiaries: These are other family members including siblings, cousins, nieces/nephews, etc. Secondary beneficiaries can only file a wrongful death claim if there are no primary beneficiaries that can do so, or if none of them want to file the claim. If the secondary beneficiaries file the claim, it will be on behalf of both them and the primary family.
- Time Restraints: Regardless of who is filing the claim, the family has three years to file a claim before they are no longer valid.
Has Your Loved One Suffered From Wrongful Death? Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients through Maryland and Washington D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligence or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims that result from medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car or truck accidents and have secured hundreds of millions in verdict settlements. Give us a call at (410)-843-3476 for a free case evaluation. You can also visit our websitewww.410thefirm.com and follow us on Facebook,Twitter,Google +, and LinkedIn for more information.