Menu
https://pickfordlawfirm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/call.svg Call
https://pickfordlawfirm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/mail.svg Contact

Fatal Car Accident: Liability and Steps in Wrongful Death Actions

liability and steps in wrongful death actions

Every year, thousands of people tragically lose their lives in car accidents. Although many of these deaths are simply unfortunate events, some may result from someone else’s negligence or recklessness. 

In cases where another’s wrongful action causes a person’s death, surviving family members may have the right to take legal action and seek compensation. 

This article will discuss liability for fatal car accidents and provide an overview of the steps involved in filing a wrongful death action.

Your Guide to Understanding Wrongful Death Claims

Wrongful death actions are legal actions that can be taken when someone dies due to another’s negligence. The lawsuit seeks to hold the responsible party accountable for the death and compensates surviving family members.

The amount of compensation awarded depends on several factors, including the extent of the damages and any applicable insurance coverage. Wrongful death actions are usually initiated by the deceased’s family or legal representatives.

Determining Liability in Fatal Car Accident Cases

When it comes to fatal car accidents, liability is a key part of any wrongful death action. Liability involves identifying who was responsible for the accident and can be determined through investigations conducted by law enforcement, insurance companies, or private attorneys. 

Liability in these cases can be complicated and requires an understanding of traffic laws and other legal concepts. Multiple parties may sometimes share liability for a fatal car accident, and distracted driving, intoxication, or recklessness can contribute to a fatality on the road.

When determining who is responsible, it’s important to have legal representation from an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands wrongful death actions and can review all evidence related to the case. 

This could include witness accounts, police reports, and medical records. An attorney will also be able to help families understand their rights and provide guidance throughout the process of filing a wrongful death claim.

Pursuing a Wrongful Death Case: Here’s How to Get Started

No one ever wants to think about a wrongful death case, let alone find themselves in the midst of one, but if you do, knowing the next steps will be important.

Here are some tips on how to handle a wrongful death case:

  1. Seek legal representation. Find a qualified wrongful death attorney to represent you. Experienced lawyers will know how to navigate the complexities of wrongful death litigation.
  2. Gather evidence. Gather as much as possible, including taking photographs, obtaining witness statements, and collecting medical reports.
  3. Compile financial documentation. Collect all information related to the deceased such as bank statements, pay stubs, and insurance policies.
  4. Document emotional loss. Keep a diary of all the emotions you’re feeling due to the death. This can be used in court to prove the emotional suffering you’ve endured.
  5. File a claim. Once you’ve gathered all the necessary evidence, you’ll need to file a claim with the responsible parties. Your lawyer will be able to help you with this step.

These are just a few steps to take in a wrongful death case. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to handle this situation alone. A qualified wrongful death attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure justice is served.

Ensure That Justice is Done — Call Pickford Law Today 

Wrongful death actions are difficult and emotional for those involved. 

If you or someone you know has been affected by a fatal car accident, we recommend consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney to seek appropriate compensation for the losses suffered.

Remember: time is of the essence. You don’t want to wait too long to file a wrongful death claim and risk losing out on compensation due to the expiring statute of limitations. No matter how hard it may be, taking action against those responsible can ensure they are held accountable.

Contact our experienced wrongful death attorneys today to discuss your case and determine the best way to seek justice for your loved one. With our expertise and dedication to providing the highest quality legal services, we can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Author Bio

Shalondra Grandberry Pickford

Shalondra Grandberry Pickford is a highly skilled attorney and the founder of Pickford Law. Her legal practice is committed to representing clients on various legal matters, including social security disability, veterans’ disability, estate planning, and personal injury. With over ten years of experience in law and a license to practice in Tennessee and Arkansas, Shalondra is committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation to each client.

Shalondra received her Juris Doctorate from The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law and is a member of the Tennessee and Arkansas State Bar Associations. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the exclusive Rising Stars award from Super Lawyers in 2017 and again in 2022.

LinkedIn | State Bar Association | Avvo | Google