The loss of a loved one can be devastating for everyone involved. When that loss comes suddenly and unexpectedly, confusion and uncertainty enter into the mix of emotions, and often families don’t know where to turn. But when a fatal accident is due to the negligence of another party, the survivors and loved ones of the deceased may be able to recover some measure of compensation through a wrongful death claim.

That may be the case for the family of a man who recently died at a General Motors plant in Ohio. The accident occurred on the afternoon of June 26, when the 52-year-old man was trapped by some machinery in the metal processing plant. Medics responded to the emergency call and transported the man to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead. There is currently a joint investigation as to exactly what caused his death.

In a case such as this one, there are steps that should be taken to determine if the family of the deceased has grounds for a wrongful death claim against any party involved. Depending on the circumstances of an individual case, the negligent party may even be the deceased person’s employer.

To determine who is at fault for a fatal accident, these are some steps that should be taken:

• Investigate the precise cause of death
• Determine if a person or entity should be held liable for the occurrence of the accident
• Determine how the death will affect probate
• Establish the financial value of loss, which may include income loss and loss of consortium

No matter what type of accident caused a loved one’s death, if someone else’s negligence is a factor, it is important that the family of the deceased receive the compensation to which they are entitled. The sudden loss of a loved one is difficult enough without the prospect of negative financial repercussions.

Source: ABC6, “Ohio worker injured at General Motors plant dies,” June 27, 2012