Wrongful Death Statistics
A wrongful death can occur in a number of circumstances. The statistics are unbelievable. Every year, over 90,000 deaths occur due to medical malpractice ALONE, not including the many other causes of wrongful death. The following statistics provide an overall look into the incidence and causes of wrongful death.
Motor Vehicle Fatalities
The CDC reports that there were 45,343 motor vehicle fatalities in 2005 , the leading cause of death in unintentional accidents. Of these deaths, 5,212 involved trucking accidents.
Medical Malpractice Fatalities
Medical malpractice, including misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose; surgical errors; and substandard care, causes numerous fatalities each year. According to studies conducted by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), one in five medical errors are potentially serious or fatal.
Accordingly, an estimated 98,000 Americans die each year due to preventable medical errors (including 7,000 deaths caused by medication errors).
Unsafe Premises
The CDC reports that there were 19,656 slip-and-fall fatalities in 2005. Contributing factors include obstructed, slippery, or poorly lit walking areas, unguarded stairways, lack of safety signs, and use of unapproved ladders and other equipment.
Remember, Parvey & Cavenago are here for you in times like these. “Don’t go it alone.”
