Lafayette Wrongful Death Lawyer
It is a tragedy to lose a loved one in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, so you hope to never be in such a position. However, data compiled by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the risk of fatal accidents is higher than you expect. Every year, almost 214,000 people are killed because of unintentional accidents. These circumstances are horrific for the victim, but there are also implications for surviving family members. Their financial and emotional losses can be extreme.
While legal action cannot bring your loved one back, filing a wrongful death claim can provide you with the financial support you need to move on after a tragic accident. Our team at Keffer Hirschauer LLP can assist with the essential tasks to recover compensation for your losses, so please contact us to speak to a Lafayette wrongful death lawyer. We can set up a free consultation to discuss your situation, but an overview may also be useful.
Most Common Fatal Accidents in Indiana
Wrongful death laws apply to a wide range of circumstances, but these claims frequently arise out of negligent acts by another person or entity. Car, motorcycle, and truck crashes collisions are among the top causes of fatalities. A driver who speeds, fails to yield, or runs a red light puts others on the road at risk. Plus, some motorists even engage in reckless acts, including operating a vehicle while drunk and distracted driving. However, there are many other grounds for wrongful death cases, including:- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents;
- Slip and falls and other incidents that occur due to dangerous conditions on property;
- Nursing home abuse and neglect; and,
- Dog bites.Â
Seeking Compensation Through a Wrongful Death Claim
At its core, a wrongful death claim is a personal injury case; the difference is that the victim died instead of merely being hurt, so the process is slightly different. The personal representative of the decedent’s estate must pursue a wrongful death case, doing so for the benefit of the surviving family members. Only the surviving spouse, children, and those dependent upon the victim for support are entitled to monetary damages for their losses. Our attorneys at Keffer Hirschauer LLP will assist with the legal process, which usually starts by filing a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. If the insurer refuses to settle for a fair amount, we will initiate litigation to recover compensation. Our goal is to obtain monetary damages for:- Funeral and burial expenses;
- The victim’s medical costs;
- Loss of financial support and related contributions the victim would have provided;
- Losses related to love, guidance, education, and other consequences.