A restaurant accident resulting in a wrongful death can raise serious concerns about the safety and security of that restaurant. Negligent behavior by the staff, inadequate safety measures, or insufficient training are just some of the reasons why such an incident can occur.
What Does a Wrongful Death Mean?
When a person dies due to another person’s negligence or intentional action, it is considered a wrongful death. In the context of a restaurant, this can include instances such as food poisoning, slip, and fall accidents, or choking on food.
Determining Liability in a Restaurant Accident Case
The owner or staff may be liable if their negligence was the cause of the customer’s death. Liability can be determined through various theories, such as negligence, product liability, or intentional wrongdoing.
- Negligence. For instance, can arise if the restaurant owner or staff failed to take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of their patrons. This can include failing to train employees, improper maintenance of equipment, or inadequate steps taken to prevent food poisoning.
- Product Liability. This can occur if the restaurant didn’t store food properly. Also, if the product was defective.
- Intentional Wrongdoing. In some cases, a wrongful death at a restaurant may be the result of intentional misconduct by the restaurant owner or staff. For example, if the restaurant served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated customer who later died in a car accident, the restaurant could be held liable for the wrongful death.
In the event of a wrongful death at a restaurant, it is important to thoroughly investigate the incident and assess the potential liability of the restaurant and its staff. Therefore, consulting an experienced wrongful death attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that the surviving family members receive the compensation they deserve.
Compensation for Surviving Family Members
Surviving family members in a wrongful death case may be entitled to compensation for their losses. For example, financial damages for the loss of income and benefits that the deceased person would have earned. As well as, compensation for funeral expenses, medical expenses, and other costs associated with the death.
Steps to Take After a Wrongful Death
If you have lost a loved one in a wrongful death at a restaurant, it is important to take steps to protect your rights and seek compensation. Contacting a wrongful death attorney is crucial in navigating the legal process and ensuring fair and just compensation. Additionally, gathering evidence such as eyewitness statements, medical records, and any other relevant documentation is important in building a strong case.
Preventing Wrongful Deaths at Restaurants
There are several steps that restaurants can take to prevent wrongful deaths and protect their customers. Some of these steps include:
- Providing proper training to staff. Staff should take training in CPR and the Heimlich maneuver, as well as in food safety procedures.
- Regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment. This includes checking for any potential hazards. For example, frayed electrical cords, and ensuring that equipment is in good working order.
- Proper food handling. Restaurants should have clear procedures in place for handling and storing food to prevent food poisoning.
- Ensuring safety measures in restaurants
To prevent the occurrence of wrongful death incidents, restaurants must maintain a safe and clean environment free from hazards.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Losing a loved one due to a restaurant accident can be emotionally and financially challenging for families. It is crucial to seek legal advice from experienced attorneys who can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at 310-943-1171 to schedule a consultation or visit the website for other practices.