Posted on Saturday, July 19th, 2025 at 12:00 pm
Losing a loved one is one of life’s most painful experiences—and that pain is only magnified when the death was preventable. In Utah, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the legal fault, negligence, or misconduct of another party. Understanding the leading causes of wrongful death can help families determine whether they may have a legal right to compensation and justice.
Under Utah Code § 78B-3-106, a wrongful death claim may be brought by the deceased’s heirs or personal representative. These civil lawsuits seek damages for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost financial support, and the emotional toll on surviving family members.
To speak with an experienced attorney about your options, visit our Utah wrongful death legal services page.
Leading Causes of Wrongful Death in Utah
1. Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle crashes are a primary cause of wrongful death claims across the state. In 2021 alone, 328 people died in traffic accidents in Utah, according to the Utah Department of Public Safety.
Frequent contributing factors include:
Distracted driving
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Speeding
Drowsy driving
Vehicle malfunction or defective parts
Types of fatal collisions include:
Car accidents involving everyday drivers
Truck accidents, which may involve commercial trucking regulations
Motorcycle accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents, particularly in urban settings
Learn more: Wrongful Death from Car Accidents in Utah
2. Medical Malpractice
Healthcare providers are held to strict standards of care. When they fail to meet those standards, the consequences can be fatal. Common wrongful death claims related to medical negligence include:
Surgical errors
Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of cancer, stroke, or infection
Anesthesia mishaps
Medication errors
Birth injuries resulting in infant mortality
Proving a medical malpractice-related wrongful death typically requires expert medical testimony and a detailed case investigation.
3. Workplace Accidents
Industries like construction, manufacturing, and mining contribute to Utah’s economy—but also pose serious risks to workers. While workers’ compensation may cover some costs, third-party liability claims may arise when other companies, contractors, or equipment manufacturers share responsibility.
Fatal workplace incidents often involve:
Falls from heights
Equipment failures or machinery accidents
Structural collapses
Electrocution
Toxic exposure and chemical burns
4. Defective Products
Manufacturers can be held liable when unsafe products lead to a person’s death. These wrongful death claims fall under product liability law and can involve:
Faulty car parts like brakes or airbags
Dangerous prescription drugs or defective medical devices
Contaminated food or drink products
Hazardous consumer goods or home appliances
Unsafe industrial or construction equipment
5. Premises Liability
Property owners must maintain safe conditions for visitors. When they fail to do so, tragic accidents can happen.
Wrongful death from unsafe premises may include:
Fatal slip-and-fall injuries
Swimming pool drownings
Fire safety violations
Structural collapses
Inadequate security leading to assault or criminal violence
6. Recreational and Outdoor Activity Accidents
Utah’s outdoor lifestyle brings unique risks. Fatal accidents may occur during:
Skiing and snowboarding
Boating and jet skiing
ATV and off-road vehicle riding
Hiking, climbing, and hunting
Although participants assume some level of risk, wrongful death claims may still be valid if negligence—such as faulty equipment, poor supervision, or unsafe trail design—was a contributing factor.
7. Intentional Acts and Criminal Violence
Wrongful death lawsuits can also arise from intentional harm, including:
Homicide
Domestic violence
Assault or battery
Acts of terrorism
These civil cases are separate from criminal prosecution and allow families to seek compensation for their loss even if a criminal conviction is not secured.
Proving a Wrongful Death Claim in Utah
To bring a successful wrongful death case, plaintiffs must prove:
Duty of Care – The defendant had a legal responsibility to the deceased.
Breach of Duty – That duty was violated through negligence or misconduct.
Causation – The breach directly caused the death.
Building a strong case requires evidence such as medical records, police reports, eyewitness testimony, and expert analysis.
Your Legal Rights After a Tragic Loss
Wrongful death cases in Utah are emotionally and legally complex. A skilled attorney can help guide you through the process of filing a claim, preserving critical evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies or opposing counsel.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence, don’t wait. Contact London Harker Injury Law today to schedule your free consultation.
Additional Resources:
