What is considered a wrongful death? My friend’s husband was killed on-the-job in Tennessee, and her family thinks it was caused by the employer’s negligence.

Simply put, a wrongful death has occurred when a person or entity has, through negligence or intentional wrongdoing, caused the death. While a wrongful death can occur anytime, anywhere, there were 137 fatal occupational injuries in Tennessee in 2010.

Your friend’s family should contact a Tennessee wrongful death attorney right away to be sure their rights are being upheld. There are some basic legal facts that they will need to understand.

A successful Tennessee work-related wrongful death suit:

Is a type of personal injury case and will be filed in civil, not criminal, court.
Must prove that another party or entity is legally responsible for the death of the individual.
Asks for financial provisions for the spouse and children of the deceased.
May be filed by immediate family member(s) who were dependents of the deceased. This would include a spouse, surviving children and, sometimes, the parents. Also, in some cases, an executor of the estate may file the suit.
Can provide compensation including loss of income, medical costs, funeral costs and the actual loss of the deceased.

Only a qualified, experienced wrongful death attorney can answer all of your friend’s questions. At Greer Injury Lawyers, we understand the grief and loss families suffer when a loved one is lost. And these emotions are compounded when the death was caused by the negligence of another. Please have your friend call us toll free at 888-470-9143 for a free case consultation.