Losing someone you love is always devastating, but when their passing results from another’s negligence, recklessness, or wrongful actions, the pain becomes unimaginable. At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we recognize that no amount of money can replace your loved one. However, securing justice through legal action can provide a sense of closure, hold responsible parties accountable, and ease the financial strain brought by your loss.
As experienced Baltimore wrongful death lawyers, we are committed to guiding you compassionately and assertively through this challenging journey.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Baltimore, MD
In Maryland, wrongful death claims allow families to pursue compensation when their loved one’s death resulted from the negligent or intentional acts of another party. Under Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code § 3-904, close relatives—including spouses, children, and parents—can file these claims. If none of these parties are living, other relatives dependent upon the deceased can step forward.
To succeed in your wrongful death case, we, as your wrongful death attorneys in Baltimore, must establish:
- The death was caused by the defendant’s wrongful actions or negligence.
- The deceased would have been entitled to legal action if they had survived.
- Family members experienced financial or emotional hardship due to the death.
Our dedicated Baltimore wrongful death lawyers carefully build your case, collecting critical evidence and presenting it compellingly to ensure justice.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Baltimore
At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, our Baltimore, MD, injury attorneys handle wrongful death claims arising from various incidents, including the following:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
In Baltimore, auto accidents are a leading cause of wrongful deaths. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, in 2022 alone, there were approximately 540 fatalities across the state due to motor vehicle collisions. If your loved one was a victim of negligent or reckless driving, we provide relentless representation to secure the justice you deserve.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice, including surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or medication mistakes, results in thousands of wrongful deaths annually. Under Maryland law, specifically Annotated Code § 3-2A-04, plaintiffs must initially file malpractice claims with Maryland’s Health Care Alternative Dispute Resolution Office.
Our skilled wrongful death attorneys in Baltimore navigate these complex regulations for you, ensuring all procedural requirements are strictly followed.
Workplace Accidents
Work-related incidents, especially in the construction, transportation, and manufacturing sectors, frequently result in wrongful death claims. According to OSHA statistics, workplace fatalities in Maryland remain a significant concern, with around 70 workplace deaths recorded in recent years.
Our personal injury law firm in Baltimore works diligently to identify liable parties beyond traditional workers’ compensation benefits, providing families comprehensive avenues for compensation.
Premises Liability
Unsafe properties, whether residential, commercial, or public, can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Examples include slip-and-fall accidents, swimming pool drownings, or fires due to negligence. At Holzman & Dickriede, our experienced wrongful death attorneys ensure that negligent property owners are held accountable for their actions or lack thereof.
Damages Available in Baltimore Wrongful Death Claims
Families pursuing wrongful death claims in Baltimore may seek various damages, as outlined by Maryland law:
Economic Damages
These damages include quantifiable financial losses:
- Medical bills associated with the decedent’s final injury or illness
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost wages and future earning capacity of the deceased
- Loss of benefits, including health insurance and pension
Non-Economic Damages
Maryland law also recognizes emotional and psychological damages, such as:
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Loss of companionship and comfort
- Loss of parental or marital support
Maryland’s cap on noneconomic damages, specified under Courts & Judicial Proceedings Code § 11-108, increases annually. For wrongful death cases in 2024, this limit is approximately $1,075,000.
Punitive Damages
While rare, punitive damages might be awarded if the wrongful death resulted from especially egregious or malicious behavior. Our wrongful death attorneys in Baltimore will evaluate your case thoroughly to determine if seeking punitive damages is justified.
Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Baltimore
Maryland imposes strict timelines on wrongful death claims. Under Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings Code § 3-904, families generally have three years from death to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can bar your family from obtaining rightful compensation, making immediate legal consultation crucial.
At Holzman & Dickriede, our dedicated legal team ensures that all critical deadlines are met, preserving your right to seek justice.
Why Choose Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law?
Selecting the right wrongful death attorney in Baltimore can significantly impact your case’s outcome. At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we offer:
Personalized Attention and Compassionate Care
Every case we handle receives our undivided attention. We understand the emotional toll a wrongful death takes, providing empathy and guidance throughout the entire legal process.
Proven Track Record in Baltimore
Our Baltimore wrongful death lawyers have successfully represented numerous families, securing substantial settlements and verdicts that help survivors rebuild their lives.
Comprehensive Investigation and Expert Resources
We thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case, collaborating with trusted experts—including accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and financial analysts—to strengthen your claim.
Transparent Communication
Our commitment is to keep you informed at every step. As your personal injury law firm in Baltimore, we explain complex legal matters clearly, ensuring you are confident and empowered throughout your case.
Dedicated Advocacy
Our relentless advocacy ensures your family’s story is heard. Whether negotiating settlements or vigorously representing you at trial, we strive tirelessly to achieve justice and hold negligent parties accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims in Baltimore, MD
What if the responsible party is facing criminal charges?
It is essential to understand that a wrongful death lawsuit is a separate legal action from any criminal proceedings. Even if the person responsible for your loved one’s death faces criminal charges, you may still pursue a wrongful death claim. Criminal cases seek to punish wrongdoers through fines, probation, or imprisonment, while wrongful death civil actions focus primarily on compensating the survivors for their losses.
Can multiple family members file a wrongful death lawsuit in Baltimore?
One wrongful death claim is typically filed on behalf of all eligible family members. Maryland law encourages coordination to ensure that all affected family members are fairly represented. At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we carefully guide families in determining who should file the claim and how to effectively include all eligible beneficiaries, ensuring each member’s interests are protected.
What if the deceased contributed to their accident?
Maryland follows a strict “contributory negligence” standard. Under this law, if the deceased individual is found even slightly responsible for the incident that led to their death, surviving family members could be barred entirely from recovering compensation.
Given this strict rule, we must consult our experienced wrongful death attorneys early. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances and defend against contributory negligence accusations to protect your rights.
How long will my wrongful death case take to resolve in Baltimore?
Every wrongful death case is unique, and timelines can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case, cooperation from opposing parties, and whether the case goes to trial or settles out of court. Generally, wrongful death cases may take anywhere from several months to several years.
Our experienced legal team commits to transparent communication and works diligently to resolve your case efficiently while seeking the maximum compensation your family deserves.
Do wrongful death claims go to trial often?
While many wrongful death claims in Baltimore settle out of court, sometimes a trial becomes necessary, especially if the responsible party refuses a fair settlement. At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, our attorneys always prepare as if we will take your case to trial. This readiness often gives us leverage in negotiations, helping us secure favorable settlements. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, rest assured that we are fully prepared to advocate aggressively for your rights before a jury.
Contact Our Experienced Baltimore Wrongful Death Lawyers Today
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful act, contact Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law today. Our dedicated wrongful death attorneys in Baltimore are here to guide you through this challenging period with sensitivity, dedication, and unwavering legal representation.
We provide free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your situation confidentially. Reach out to our compassionate team, and let us help you take the first step toward justice and healing.
