In the state of California, falls that result in a fatal injury may be grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.
Most people can fall to the ground without sustaining a fatal injury. Unfortunately, in some cases, a fall can result in an untimely death. Typically, for a fall to be fatal, it must occur from a high place like a ladder, scaffolding or roof. The people most at risk of dying in a fall are construction worker and others who work in high places.
According to reports by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 40,000 construction workers are injured on the job site every year. Of those injured approximately 4,500 will lose their lives. When a person falls and is killed as the result of someone’s negligence, the victim’s family may choose to file a suit for wrongful death in order to receive damages for that death.
In San Luis Obispo, an experienced workplace accident or personal injury attorney can help a victim’s family seek the compensation they deserve. Victim’s families may be entitled to end-of-life expenses like funeral and burial costs, lost wages, pain and suffering and loss of parental support. The type and amount of compensation that a victim’s family is entitled to depends on the unique circumstances of the accident.
When a family member dies unexpectedly in a fall, the aftermath can be devastating. It is recommended that family members consult with an attorney to determine their legal rights.
