Wrongful Death Auto Accident Claims

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Written by Auto Accident Team

Last Updated: September 24, 2024

Losing a loved one in a car accident is a heartbreaking experience, and the days that follow can be especially challenging. Your family may suddenly be forced to make decisions you never expected to make, and having someone to guide you through what comes next can provide the clarity and support you need during this trying time.

The Auto Accident Team is dedicated to connecting you with attorneys who prioritize compassion and understanding while handling the legal complexities on your behalf. Our network of car accident attorneys is committed to providing clear, consistent communication and fighting for what is right for your family. You should not have to carry the weight of these decisions alone. We will connect you with a seasoned attorney who can fight aggressively for your rights.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Car Accident?

When a fatal car accident occurs, the right to file a wrongful death claim belongs to close family members like a spouse, children, or parents. However, each state’s regulations have their own nuances.

In California, the law allows spouses, domestic partners, or children to file a wrongful death claim. If none of these individuals are present, other relatives like parents or siblings may be eligible, along with financially dependent individuals such as stepchildren. In Texas, the guidelines are stricter, limiting eligibility to the deceased person’s spouse, children, or parents. Unlike in California, siblings and extended family members cannot file for wrongful death in Texas.

We will connect you with an attorney who understands your state’s specific regulations. This ensures your family’s rights are protected throughout the process, and are able to take the appropriate steps if you are eligible to file a claim.

What Damages Can My Family Recover After a Fatal Car Accident?

After losing a loved one in a fatal accident, the family members eligible to file a wrongful death claim may seek compensation for both financial and emotional losses. These damages typically fall into two distinct categories: economic and non-economic.

Economic Damages

These cover the direct financial impact of the accident, including medical expenses incurred before the person passed away, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of income the deceased would have provided to the family. Economic damages can also include the value of benefits, like health insurance or retirement contributions, that the deceased would have offered over their lifetime.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages address the intangible losses that come with losing a loved one, such as emotional pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and the loss of guidance or support that the deceased provided. While non-economic damages are harder to measure, they play an essential role in compensating for the emotional loss they have suffered.

How Can an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Help You?

The death of a beloved family member is overwhelming, and managing the legal process can be especially challenging. An experienced car accident attorney can provide essential guidance and support, allowing you to focus on your family while they handle the legal complexities. 

A few ways an attorney can help include the following:

  • Evaluating Your Case: An attorney assesses who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim and identifies the damages your family may be entitled to pursue.
  • Handling Evidence and Negotiations: They gather key evidence, consult experts, and negotiate with insurance companies that typically try to minimize payouts.
  • Navigating State-Specific Laws: Your attorney ensures the claim is filed correctly, meets all deadlines, and aligns with your state’s unique wrongful death laws.
  • Calculating Damages Accurately: They help determine both the economic and non-economic losses your family has suffered, ensuring no aspect of your claim is overlooked.
  • Providing Clear Communication and Updates: An attorney offers consistent updates, answers your questions, and keeps you informed throughout the legal process.
  • Representing You in Court: If negotiations do not result in a fair outcome, they are prepared to take your case to court and advocate on your behalf.

Having a knowledgeable attorney ensures your rights are protected, giving you peace of mind and improving your chances of securing the compensation your family deserves.

Compassionate Legal Support When You Need It Most

After losing a loved one in a car accident, it is natural to feel overwhelmed by the decisions you need to make and the legal steps required to hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. You deserve to focus on your family and healing without the additional stress of handling complex legal matters on your own. The Auto Accident Team connects families with attorneys who bring both the compassion and legal knowledge needed to pursue justice and compensation.

Our network of attorneys are committed to providing the clear communication and dedicated support you need during these challenging times. With years of experience in handling wrongful death claims, they are ready to investigate your claim, handle negotiations, and, if necessary, fight for your family’s rights in court. You do not have to shoulder this burden alone – reach out to us today. Call (877) 236-2391 or fill out our contact form to get connected with an attorney who will advocate for you every step of the way.

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