By Larry Weisberg on May 8th, 2014
Losing a loved one is never easy, especially when the death is unexpected and untimely. Determining a cause may help families find some closure. However, the process can also be very taxing for grieving individuals to face. In Pennsylvania, the sister of a deceased Navy veteran is facing this very challenge and has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the federal government, which runs the hospital system she deems responsible for the death.
The 65-year-old veteran, who hailed from Jeanette, contracted Legionnaires’ disease during an outbreak that struck the Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, according to his sister. The sister alleges that he died in July 2012 as a result of this. It has been alleged that the hospital system’s water was contaminated with the deadly disease, which affected VA campuses in both O’Hara and Oakland.
At least 22 people have purportedly been affected by the outbreak; six of these individuals have died. Of those affected, more than six have challenged the government with claims, five of which have reached settlements. The veteran’s sister seeks damages for negligence and wrongful death. She also hopes to recover fees and costs that may arise from the case.
Cases like this are tragic and distressing, especially for the families. The sudden death of a family member not only leaves a hole in the lives of those who loved him or her, but also comes with financial difficulties. The cost of the funeral is one expense, then there’s the loss of income now that the deceased is no longer around to work. Furthermore, the pain and suffering caused by such a loss can impede the surviving loved one’s own daily activities.
How To Respond To Cases Of Negligence or Thoughtlessness
For people in Pennsylvania, this tragic event is quite close to home. If you lose a loved one as a result of someone’s negligence or thoughtlessness, legal matters may not be the first thing on your mind. However, acting quickly and with the advice of a knowledgeable attorney can be invaluable. Doing so may greatly increase your chances of receiving justice for your loved one and compensation for your loss.
Source: Trib Live, “Sister of Navy veteran who died in Legionnaires’ outbreak sues,” Adam Smeltz, May 2, 2014