Losing a loved one is always devastating, but it’s especially painful when their death was caused by another person’s negligence or carelessness.
Families in Toledo and across Lucas County face these tragedies far too often—whether from serious car crashes along I-75 and I-475 or from workplace incidents in the region’s many industrial and manufacturing hubs.
Employees in auto plants, glass production facilities, shipping warehouses near the Port of Toledo, and construction projects along the Maumee River and downtown development sites all face daily risks that can sometimes lead to fatal accidents.
At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, our wrongful death attorneys are committed to helping Toledo families pursue justice and the compensation they need to move forward.
What Are Common Causes of Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death can arise in many situations where negligence or misconduct leads to fatal injuries. Some of the most common causes in Toledo include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Crashes on heavily traveled routes such as I-475, U.S. 24, and Monroe Street often result in fatalities, particularly when caused by speeding, drunk driving, or distracted driving.
- Medical Malpractice: Surgical errors, misdiagnoses, and medication mistakes in Toledo hospitals or clinics can tragically cost lives. In March 2020, an Ohio woman filed a lawsuit against a local Lucas County hospital and other clinics and healthcare providers for negligent care that led to the death of her newborn son.
- Workplace Accidents: Industrial sites, warehouses, and construction projects in Lucas County pose significant risks, including falls, equipment accidents, and exposure to hazardous materials.
- Defective Products: Faulty machinery, unsafe medical devices, or defective consumer products can lead to fatal injuries.
- Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse: With many long-term care facilities in the Toledo area, cases of neglect or inadequate supervision can sometimes have fatal consequences. In Oct. 2024, USA Today reported that a family filed a lawsuit in Lucas County after their loved one died due to a pressure wound in her nursing home near Toledo.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Under Ohio law, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This representative acts on behalf of surviving family members, such as:
- A surviving spouse
- Children (including adopted children)
- Parents of the deceased
The claim seeks damages to compensate family members for the loss they’ve suffered due to their loved one’s death.
What Steps Should I Take to Start a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
If you believe your loved one’s death in Toledo was caused by negligence, here are important steps to take:
- Consult an attorney. Contact a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible to evaluate your case.
- Preserve evidence. Keep records, such as accident reports from the Toledo Police Department, medical records, and witness contact information.
- File within deadlines. Ohio law places a statute of limitations on wrongful death cases of two years after the date of the death, making it important to act quickly.
What Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Claim?
Compensation in an Ohio wrongful death case may include:
- Medical and funeral expenses
- Loss of financial support and income
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
- Emotional pain and suffering of surviving family members
Recovering compensation for these damages can help provide stability for families suddenly facing significant financial strain.
How Can a Lawyer Help With My Wrongful Death Case?
A wrongful death case is complex and requires careful investigation. An experienced attorney can:
- Gather police reports, medical records, and expert testimony
- Determine liability and hold the responsible party accountable
- Negotiate with insurance companies to pursue a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if the case goes to trial
Our team has represented grieving families throughout Toledo and Northwest Ohio with compassion and determination, ensuring their voices are heard.
Support Groups for Bereaved Families in Toledo
Grieving the sudden loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming, and no family should have to go through it alone. In Toledo, there are several organizations that provide grief counseling and peer support for adults, children, and families coping with wrongful death or other tragic losses.
These groups offer a safe space to share experiences, find comfort, and begin the healing process:
- Hospice of Northwest Ohio — Grief Support
This site provides a variety of grief support groups and workshops for adults and families who are coping with loss. The groups are led by professional counselors and volunteers, and participation is free for the community. - Good Grief of Northwest Ohio
Focused on children, teens, and adults, this peer-support program allows families to connect with others who have experienced similar losses. Meetings are usually held in the evenings and include age-appropriate activities to find healing in community.
Contact Our Toledo Wrongful Death Attorneys
If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence in Toledo, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. The wrongful death lawyers at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy are here to help you seek justice and financial security for your family.
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
