Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is a devastating and life-changing experience. In addition to overwhelming grief, families are often burdened with financial hardship, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income. When a fatal crash is caused by negligence, families have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys in Austin understand the profound impact of fatal accidents and are committed to helping families in Texas seek justice. Below, we explore the critical role of a deadly car accident lawyer in securing the compensation families need to move forward.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Texas
A wrongful death occurs when someone loses their life due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. In Texas, surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages.
Under Texas law, only certain family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit, including:
- The spouse of the deceased.
- Children (biological or legally adopted).
- Parents of the deceased.
If no eligible family members file within three months, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate may pursue the claim.
How an Austin Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Secures Compensation
A fatal car accident lawyer is crucial in helping families navigate the legal process and recover the full compensation they deserve.
That includes:
Investigating the Accident and Determining Liability
Common causes of fatal car accidents in Austin include:
- Drunk or impaired driving.
- Distracted driving, such as texting or phone use.
- Speeding or reckless driving.
- Failure to yield or obey traffic signals.
- Defective auto parts or road hazards.
By identifying all liable parties, our skilled lawyers ensure that every possible source of compensation is pursued.
To build a strong case, our attorneys also conduct a thorough investigation, including:
- Reviewing police reports and accident scene evidence.
- Gathering witness statements.
- Analyzing traffic camera footage.
- Consulting accident reconstruction experts.
- Examining the at-fault driver’s history
Calculating the Full Value of a Wrongful Death Claim
Our fatal accident lawyers help Texas families understand the true financial impact of their loss and pursue full compensation.
Recoverable economic damages may include:
- Medical expenses related to the accident.
- Funeral and burial costs.
- Loss of income and financial support.
- Loss of benefits, such as health insurance or retirement contributions.
Recoverable non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering of surviving family members.
- Mental anguish and emotional distress.
- Loss of companionship and consortium.
- Loss of parental guidance for minor children.
If the fatal accident was caused by gross negligence, such as drunk driving or street racing, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts in wrongful death claims.
Our experienced lawyers can:
- Handle all communications with insurers.
- Ensure families do not accept a lowball settlement.
- Provide strong evidence to support the claim.
- Take the case to court if a fair settlement is not offered.
Representing Families in Court When Necessary
While many wrongful death cases are resolved through settlements, some require litigation.
Our skilled attorneys will:
- Present compelling evidence in court.
- Cross-examine witnesses to establish liability.
- Advocate for maximum compensation.
Navigating a wrongful death claim while grieving can be overwhelming. Our dedicated Austin fatal car accident lawyers can provide legal guidance, protect your family’s rights, and ensure they receive the compensation they need for financial stability.
At Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys, we are committed to supporting families during these difficult times. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, call our skilled Austin wrongful death attorneys at (512) 883-0277 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. We pursue dedicated, driven results for our clients, and there is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you.