Losing a loved one in an accident is devastating to the surviving family members. When the loss was caused by someone else’s negligence, that pain is compounded. What if the person who was fatally injured was the breadwinner of your family?
Amidst the grief you are feeling, it can be difficult to consider pursuing compensation from the at-fault party. However, you can and should file a wrongful death lawsuit to help you cover losses related to your loved one’s death.
To increase your chance of an optimal outcome, you should find an experienced wrongful death attorney in your area.
Common Wrongful Death Claims in Texas
In Texas, you have two years from the time of a victim’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your chance to receive any compensation for your losses.
Some of the common types of wrongful death claims in Texas arise from motor vehicle accidents. These include car accidents, motorcycle, and truck accidents. Fatal work accidents are another type of common wrongful death claim.
It is vitally important that you have the best legal representation available to help you maximize the compensation you receive from a wrongful death case. Here are some things to consider.
Experience with Wrongful Death Claims is Essential
Wrongful death cases can be complicated. Make sure your attorney has experience in personal injury cases and wrongful death cases. Not all personal injury lawyers will have handled cases involving fatal accidents.
You want an attorney who is a skilled negotiator but who is also proficient in the courtroom should your case go to trial. An attorney who has good relationships with the local legal community and court system is another positive trait to look for in your search.
What Damage Claims Do They Foresee Pursuing?
The damages in a wrongful death claim can be extensive. They can include the immediate medical care your loved one received after the accident, any property damage caused by the accident, and the funeral and burial costs for your loved one.
They can also include compensation for the emotional distress and pain and suffering you have endured, the loss of income and benefits from your loved one, as well as the loss of consortium and companionship.
How Much Will Legal Representation Cost Me?
Most personal injury firms will offer a free consultation to discuss your case. During this consultation, you can ask questions about the firm’s lawyers and their respective backgrounds and experiences.
If you choose to move forward with an attorney, you’ll need to know what you’re expected to pay at the beginning of the case. Most wrongful death attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront. Your attorneys only get paid if they are successful in getting you an award. They will then get an agreed percentage of that award as payment for the representation.
The typical percentage is around one-third of the recovered amount if the case settles. The percentage could go up if the case goes to trial. Make sure to discuss how the firm handles court costs and other legal fees.
Call an Austin Personal Injury Firm for a Wrongful Death Claim Consultation
A fatal accident to a loved one caused by another’s negligence is tragic. You will need help picking up the pieces and moving forward with your life. An experienced wrongful death lawyer will help you pursue the compensation to which you are entitled.
FVF Law can help you understand your rights and options. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our legal team.
Contact Our Wrongful Death Law Firm in Austin, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Austin and need legal help, contact our Austin wrongful death lawyers at FVF Law to schedule a free consultation with our team.
FVF Law
3101 Bee Caves Rd #301, Austin, TX 78746, United States
(512) 982-9328
