What is a Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice Claim?

If a person is killed by, or dies as a result of, a medical provider’s negligence or carelessness, our Medical Malpractice Law Group would open an Estate for the survivors in Probate Court and then prosecute a claim against the wrongdoers. This type of claim is called a “wrongful death” medical malpractice claim and is allowed by Connecticut law; see General Statute § 52-555. One goal of such a wrongful death claim is to help the survivors cope with their loss and to move forward as best they can under the circumstances without that person in their lives—without that person’s support, companionship, and love.

Any money recovered from the wrongful death medical malpractice claim would be distributed to the appropriate survivors (after approval by the Probate Court). If the deceased person had a will, the recovery would be distributed to the beneficiaries named in that will. If the deceased person did not have a will, the recovery would be distributed to that person’s heirs pursuant to the applicable Connecticut General Statutes. (See the specific FAQ’s on distribution of recovery in a wrongful death medical malpractice claim for more details.)

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury or loss caused by medical malpractice, medical negligence, or medical mistake, please contact our Medical Malpractice Law Group to arrange a free and confidential consultation.

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