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Wrongful death claims in the US have risen significantly over the past decade, with nearly 150,000 filed in 2018 alone. Pacific Injury Law Firm, based in Portland, Oregon, is dedicated to seeking justice for families affected by preventable deaths due to negligence or recklessness. As we work to increase safety measures and provide comprehensive legal services for our clients, it's crucial that individuals and companies take proactive steps towards ensuring safety at home and work environments.
Use this article as general information to understand the issue, preserve useful records, and identify the next questions to ask an attorney about your own facts.
Published March 3, 2023
Every year, thousands of families across the United States are affected by wrongful death claims. According to a recent report published by the National Safety Council, wrongful death claims have risen significantly over the past decade. The data reveals a staggering number of families affected annually by preventable deaths, highlighting the need for increased safety measures.
Wrongful death is defined as a death that has been caused due to another person or entity’s negligence or recklessness. It can be the result of medical malpractice, motor vehicle accidents, defective products, and even dangerous premises - among other causes. In such cases, surviving family members may be able to pursue legal action through wrongful death claims.
According to the National Safety Council’s report, there were nearly 150,000 wrongful death claims filed in 2018 alone - an increase of 45% since 2009. This equates to approximately 400 families affected each day by preventable deaths in the US. The most common causes of wrongful death claims included motor vehicle accidents (47%), medical malpractice (17%), and workplace injuries (12%).
The data also revealed that certain states had higher instances of wrongful death than others. For example California had more than 16% of all reported wrongful deaths nationwide in 2018; followed closely by Texas with 14%. Other states like Florida and New York also had significantly high numbers relative to their population size - 8% and 7%, respectively.
To reduce these alarming numbers it is essential that individuals take proactive steps towards increasing safety measures both at home and at work environments across America. Companies should ensure that their employees are adequately trained on all safety protocols and procedures; while individuals should take extra precautions when driving or engaging in hazardous activities such as swimming or using heavy machinery without proper supervision/training.
At Pacific Injury Law Firm we understand how devastating it can be for families who have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness – which is why we strive to seek justice on behalf our clients through our comprehensive legal services Link (opens in a new tab). If you believe you may have grounds for a claim please do not hesitate reach out Link (opens in a new tab) so we can help you explore your options further today!
Insurance calls, medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty tend to arrive at the same time. The first job is to steady the situation: understand the facts, preserve useful records, and talk through the legal options that fit your Oregon injury claim.
“... I was referred to Adam who was able to take my case and quickly get it resolved for more than I expected. I was very pleasantly surprised by his attention to detail and tenacious negotiating tactics... Adam handled everything to make sure I received the maximum compensation for my injuries. If you need a good personal injury lawyer you just found one.”
Jim West
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