Texas families that are mourning the loss of a loved one after a fatal accident understand that it can affect them in many ways. From the grief associated with an unexpected loss to the financial expenses related to the crash, the aftermath of a fatal accident can be overwhelming. For some grieving families, however, there are certain legal options available.
Depending on the circumstances of your loved one’s accident, you could have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Of course, this cannot reverse the losses you experienced and bring your loved one back, but it can help you recover compensation. It may be helpful for your family to get a better understanding of the legal options available.
Is a wrongful death claim appropriate?
A wrongful death claim is an option for families after the death of a family member due to the reckless or negligent actions of another person. Some of the most common reasons for a wrongful death claim include the following:
- Reckless driving accidents, including speeding
- Collisions caused by distracted or drunk drivers
- Medical malpractice incidents
- Driver fatigue or commercial truck accidents
- Dangerous road conditions or defective car parts
A fatal accident is just one factor of a wrongful death claim. If you believe you have grounds to move forward with civil action, you must also show that your loved one died as a result of the negligent actions of another person. There must also be sufficient evidence that your family experienced financial losses as a result of the death.
Damages from a wrongful death claim can include compensation for your financial losses, but also for the loss of income of the deceased, loss of consortium, emotional duress and more. A complete evaluation of your case can help you understand how to maximize your claim.
Navigating the aftermath of a fatal accident
If a loved one died in an accident, it can irrevocably change the lives of every person in your family. The aftermath can be complex and confusing, but you do not have to navigate it on your own.
You should gain a clear understanding of the legal options available to you. An attorney experienced in wrongful death cases can explain these options, discuss the legal process and provide an estimate of the potential value of your claim.