Why Should You Need An OceanGate Wrongful Death Lawyer?
OceanGate Inc. is a privately owned firm that specializes in submersible technology and underwater exploration. Established by former NASA engineer Stockton Rush in 2009, they have since developed submersibles like Titan capable of diving to depths of 13,000 feet.
On June 18th 2023, while diving into the Titanic wreckage, its submarine Titan experienced a catastrophic implosion, killing all five passengers aboard. While its cause is yet unknown, experts speculate it may have been related to pressure hull failure within the sub.
The implosion of Titan has generated many legal questions. Families of victims may be eligible to bring claims against OceanGate for negligent design and operation of the submersible, as well as breaching federal safety regulations.
If the Titan’s implosion had an impactful effect on you or someone close to you, seeking legal representation is highly advised. Lawyers can help explain your legal rights and represent you against OceanGate in court proceedings if needed.
At Husain Law + Associates Accident Attorneys, P.C., our legal team has extensive experience handling wrongful death cases. We have an impressive track record in securing financial compensation for our clients and are passionate about helping you receive justice.
Background of The OceanGate Incident
OceanGate Inc., an esteemed privately held company, has long been at the forefront of manned submersible technology and underwater exploration. Their commitment to uncovering mysteries of the deep has earned them a place among industry pioneers.
But, the very fabric of OceanGate’s expertise was tested in an upsetting turn of events that shook the company to its core. Recently, an implosion of one of OceanGate’s formidable submarines has sent shockwaves throughout the underwater exploration community and left an indelible impact on the company and the families of those involved.
This submarine implosion incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved with venturing into uncharted depths. Underwater pressure combined with technical complexities associated with manned submersibles creates a delicate balance between exploration and danger – something which has proven tragic in this instance, leading to multiple deaths while leaving family and loved ones grieving deeply for their loved ones.
OceanGate Inc. now faces the difficult challenge of managing its aftermath as legal issues interweave with emotional and financial strain on itself and the affected families. At such times, having access to experienced legal advice becomes essential – someone who will help navigate through all the complexities surrounding the incident with skill.
The OceanGate incident necessitates an in-depth knowledge of various legal disciplines, from maritime law to personal injury litigation and more besides. A deep grasp of all its intricate details is vital to finding justice and accountability – something the families of victims are grappling with as they try to find closure for the death of their loved ones.
The Role of Wrongful Death Lawyers and Claims They Can File Against OceanGate
Wrongful death attorneys play a vital role in investigating incidents like the OceanGate implosion and seeking legal action on behalf of victims’ families. They can collect evidence, determine liability and file various lawsuits.
In the case of the OceanGate submersible implosion, a wrongful death lawyer would conduct an investigation to ascertain its cause and gather evidence such as witness statements, expert reports, and technical data to ascertain whether OceanGate was negligent in either designing or operating its submersible submerged vessel.
If the wrongful death lawyer determines that OceanGate was negligent, they can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for victims’ families, including pain and suffering damages, lost wages, and funeral costs.
Legal claims against OceanGate could include:
Negligence
If OceanGate had been careless with respect to designing or operating its submersible submerged vessel, OceanGate may be held liable for wrongful deaths of passengers on board the submersible vessel.
Breach of Contract
If the passengers had entered into an agreement with OceanGate, if it failed to provide them with a safe and seaworthy submersible, they could hold them liable for breach of contract.
Product Liability
OceanGate could be held liable under product liability laws for the untimely deaths of passengers as a result of a defective submersible.
Types of Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Wrongful death is defined as any act that leads to someone’s death by negligence or intentional act by another individual, entity, or group. Legal claims in wrongful death cases vary by state; however, common ones include:
Negligence Claims
Negligence claims are founded upon the notion that the defendant owed a duty of care to those they injured or killed and failed to fulfill this responsibility through negligence.
For instance, such claims might be filed against drivers involved in car accidents that caused fatalities, such as in the example above.
Product Liability Claims
Product liability lawsuits are filed based on the theory that the product responsible was defective. For instance, such a suit might be filed against OceanGate if they produced a submersible with defects that eventually led to the death of its occupants.
Maritime Law Violations
These claims stem from violations of maritime law that led to someone’s death, such as when a ship captain failed to maintain their ship properly and caused passenger injuries as a result of improper upkeep resulting in their deaths.
For instance, such claims might include actions against captains who fail to keep passengers safe while at sea and cause fatalities due to negligent maintenance practices on board ships which led to injuries for which no liability can be held against.
Specific objectives of wrongful death lawsuits vary by case; however, their ultimate aim is always to obtain compensation for the surviving family members of those killed – which could include pain and suffering compensation, lost wages, funeral costs, or punitive damages.
Steps Involved in Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Here are the steps involved in filing a wrongful death lawsuit:
Consult an Experienced Wrongful Death Lawyer
It is best to seek advice from an experienced wrongful death lawyer, as they will understand your legal options and represent you in court.
Gather Evidence
Your attorney must collect evidence in support of your claim, such as witness statements, expert reports, and technical data.
File a Lawsuit
Your attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf, which will include filing a formal complaint outlining all the facts of your case and the legal claims you intend to assert.
Negotiate a Settlement
Your lawyer may attempt to reach an agreement in which the company agrees to pay a set sum in return for dropping the lawsuit against them.
Going to Trial
If OceanGate Inc. refuses to settle, the case will go to trial, where a lawyer will present evidence and argue in front of a jury that OceanGate Inc. was responsible for wrongful death.
Why You Need a Husain Law + Associates, P.C. Wrongful Death Lawyer
We have extensive experience handling wrongful death cases. Here are some of the reasons why you need a Husain Law + Associates Accident Attorneys, P.C. Wrongful Death Lawyer:
Our Attorneys Understand All the Relevant Wrongful Death Laws and Regulations
Our attorneys possess an in-depth knowledge of relevant laws and regulations surrounding wrongful death cases; we know which statutes apply and how best to use those laws to get you the compensation you deserve.
Our Attorneys Are Adept Negotiators and Litigators
Our attorneys have experience negotiating settlements with insurance companies as well as taking cases all the way to trial.
Our Attorneys an Impressive Track Record of Success
For years we have successfully represented clients in wrongful death lawsuits, securing significant financial compensation on their behalf.
Final Thoughts
The OceanGate incident was an unfortunate tragedy that resulted in five lives being lost. If this event has had an effect on you or someone you care about, seeking legal assistance from Husain Law + Associates Accident Attorneys, P.C.’s wrongful death lawyers is key. Our legal experts are adept at successfully recovering financial compensation for our clients.
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