According to the National Vital Statistics System, in 2017, there were 2,813,503 deaths in the United States. While most of these deaths were due to natural causes, a significant number of deaths were by the negligence or wrongful actions of another person or entity.
In the United States, a wrongful death claim is a legal action against someone who has caused the death of another person through negligence or intentional harm. In Knoxville, Tennessee, there are about 3,500 accidental deaths every year. Of these, about 10% are work-related, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.
There are many different types of wrongful death claims, but some of the most common include:
Table of Contents
1. Car Accidents:
Car accidents are the leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. In 2020, over 38,000 fatalities were victims of car accidents.
Approximately 14660 were due to drunk driving, and 6,283 were due to speeding. Besides drunk driving and speeding, other common causes of car accidents include distracted driving, aggressive driving, and weather-related conditions. However, in some cases, car accidents are caused by defective auto parts, such as tires or brakes. If you are a Knoxville resident looking for an attorney online, you should search for an “attorney in Knoxville TN” near me and get in touch with one of the lawyers. The reason is that these lawyers will be more familiar with the local traffic laws.
2. Medical Malpractice:
Medical malpractice is another leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. According to a study conducted by Johns Hopkins University, medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States, behind only heart disease and cancer. Medical errors can occur in any setting, including hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, and pharmacies. Common medical errors include medication errors, surgery errors, and diagnostic errors. However, in some cases, medical errors are caused by defective medical devices, such as pacemakers or hip replacements.
3. Workplace Accidents:
Workplace accidents are another common type of wrongful death. In 2020, over 5,000 workplace fatalities took place in the United States. The leading causes of workplace fatalities include falls, being struck by an object, and electrocutions. Workplace accidents can occur in any industry, but construction, mining, and transportation are some of the most dangerous industries. However, in some cases, workplace accidents are caused by defective safety equipment, such as helmets or fire extinguishers.
4. Fires and Explosions:
Fires and explosions are another leading cause of wrongful death. In 2020, over 3,000 fatalities were due to fires and explosions. The leading causes of fires and explosions include smoking, cooking, and heating. And in some cases, fires and explosions are caused by defective products, such as faulty electrical wiring or flammable materials. In addition, many fires and explosions were due to careless actions, such as leaving a candle unattended or failing to dispose of fireworks properly. However, in some cases, fires and explosions are caused by natural disasters, such as earthquakes or wildfires.
5. Criminal Acts:
Criminal acts are another leading cause of wrongful death. In 2020, over 16,000 homicides in the United States. Of these, about 70% were due to gun violence. Other common causes of homicide include stabbing, strangulation, and blunt force trauma. However, in some cases, homicide is caused by negligence, such as if a property owner fails to secure premises properly.
6. Slip and Fall Accidents:
Slip and fall accidents are another leading cause of wrongful death. In 2020, over 800 fatalities occurred due to slip and fall accidents. Slip and fall accidents often happen in public places, such as grocery stores, shopping malls, and office buildings. However, they can also occur in private homes. Slip and fall accidents can happen from slippery surfaces, cluttered floors, and uneven walkways. If you have experienced a slip and fall accident, you may be able to file a premises liability claim.
7. Drunk Driving Accidents:
Drunk driving accidents are another leading cause of wrongful death. In 2020, over 10,000 fatalities were due to drunk driving accidents. Drunk driving accidents often occur when a driver is under alcohol or drugs. They can also happen when a driver is tired or distracted. Drunk driving accidents often result in serious injuries, such as brain damage, spinal cord injuries, and amputations. If you suffer from a drunk driving accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim.
8. Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect:
In 2020, over 2,000 fatalities were due to nursing home abuse and neglect. Nursing home abuse and neglect often occur when nursing home staff fails to provide proper care. It can include failing to monitor residents properly, failing to provide adequate nutrition, or failing to provide appropriate medical care. If you have a loved one who has been abused or neglected in a nursing home, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
9. Workplace Accidents:
Workplace accidents are another leading cause of wrongful death. In 2020, over 5,000 fatalities were due to workplace accidents. Workplace accidents often occur in hazardous industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and mining. However, they can also occur in office settings. In addition, workplace accidents can happen from unsafe work conditions, such as exposure to hazardous materials, lack of safety equipment, and inadequate training. If you have suffered from a workplace accident, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim.
10. Truck Accidents:
Truck accidents are another leading cause of wrongful death. In 2020, over 4,000 fatalities were due to truck accidents. Truck accidents often occur when a truck driver is tired or distracted. They can also happen when a truck is overloaded or improperly maintained. Truck accidents often result in serious injuries, such as brain damage, spinal cord injuries, and amputations.
The Bottom Line:
The leading causes of wrongful death claims are car accidents, medical malpractice, and defective products. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Also, suppose you have suffered from any of the above accidents. In that case, you may be able to file a personal injury claim.
