When a loved one passes away due to another person’s negligence, a wrongful death lawsuit could help compensate the grieving family members. Your family is likely feeling devastated during this difficult time, but a personal injury attorney may be able to help you financially recover after the loss of a loved one. The decedent’s income, companionship, and other types of damages may be compensable in a wrongful death lawsuit. An experienced Georgetown wrongful death lawyer could help you determine your rights and seek compensation for you and your family. Schedule a consultation today.
Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Wrongful death lawsuits are meant to compensate a decedent’s family when their death was caused by another’s wrongful acts. This can include both intentional torts and negligent acts. Chapter 71 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code sets forth the requirements of a wrongful death lawsuit. These lawsuits may be incredibly complicated to put together and prove for an inexperienced lawyer or for those who attempt to prove the claim themselves. Successful cases require the plaintiff to present specific evidence, and failure to utilize the proper procedures could result in the family’s failure to obtain any compensation at all. Fortunately, an experienced wrongful death attorney in Georgetown could help in gathering strong documentation to support a claim.Incidents That Commonly Cause Wrongful Death
Common causes of a person’s wrongful death may include but are not limited to:- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Product liability cases
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Workplace accidents
- Intentional assault, neglect, or abuse
- Medical malpractice
Who May File the Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Under state law, only specific family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit. Under the wrongful death statute, those who can file include the decedent’s surviving children, spouse, or parents. These family members are permitted to bring the lawsuit for their own recovery, or for the recovery of everyone who may be entitled to proceeds of the lawsuit. If no person has filed a wrongful death lawsuit within three months of the death, the estate of the decedent may bring the lawsuit unless requested not to by the rest of the family members. Understanding who may be permitted to file a wrongful death action can be confusing, but a qualified attorney in Georgetown could help.Compensation Through a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
A wrongful death lawsuit may result in financial compensation for the surviving family members. This can include:- Property damage
- The cost of medical treatment
- Funeral expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium