There are few things in life harder than losing a close member of your family. Getting compensation for loss can be the first step toward beginning the healing process.
If your loved one died because of someone else’s negligence, then you may be able to get help with costs stemming from the accident. But Maryland’s statutes regarding wrongful death suits can be very specific, so make sure you qualify under the letter of the law.
Benefactors
Your relationship with the victim must meet certain circumstances:
- Primary: If you are a spouse, parent or child of the victim, then you are likely entitled to sue for wrongful death.
- Secondary: If blood or marriage connected you and were dependent, then you might have grounds for a suit. This might only be an option if there are no primary heirs that qualify.
- Close relatives: If you are a non-dependent, non-primary relative of the deceased, then you may not be able to file a suit and could have to find another way to secure compensation.
Time limits
Three years from the death of your loved one is usually the window for you to file a claim, but there could be different limitations depending on the cause of death. If the reason falls into a category like occupational disease, you may be working with a very different timetable.
Hitting the ceiling
Maryland does not place a cap on damages like medical bills or lost wages. On the other hand, noneconomic damages can hit an upper limit. Emotional trauma, mental anguish and pain and suffering could all be subject to a ceiling.
Make sure you qualify for the compensation you deserve when someone’s negligence results in you losing a loved one. Understanding the specifics of Maryland statutes can make all the difference when you need help with your healing.
