Hixson Wrongful Death Lawyer

While there are many kinds of personal injury cases, wrongful death claims are the most tragic. Few things in life are more difficult than losing a loved one, especially when his or her death was sudden or premature. If you suspect the death of someone close to was due to another’s reckless or careless behavior, you may be able to seek compensation to help you maintain financial security following the loss.

With the help of a persistent Hixson wrongful death lawyer, you may be able to hold the at-fault parties accountable for their actions. A compassionate personal injury attorney could handle the legal aspects of your case, so you can focus on spending time with your family.

Understanding Wrongful Death

Wrongful death can occur for numerous reasons, with some of the most common types being car and truck accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, and workplace accidents. However, other reasons exist for claims of sudden or unexpected fatality, such as premises liability accidents, accidental poisonings, homicides, drowning or boating accidents, and on-the-job illnesses.

A wrongful death is a civil cause of action which gives surviving family members the ability to bring a lawsuit against the parties responsible for causing the death. These cases could be filed for both accidental deaths caused by another’s negligence, as well as intentionally caused deaths.

Who Can Bring A Claim

In Hixson, immediate family members typically have the right to file an action on behalf of the deceased. The surviving spouse of the deceased will usually have priority to file a case. However, if there is no surviving spouse, children, or next of kin, a personal representative of the estate will usually initiate a lawsuit.

Bringing a Claim in Hixson

The damages available in unexpected fatality cases are different from damages available in other types of injury cases. This is due to the unique nature of the trauma suffered by the close family members of the deceased. Common types of damages that may be awarded are listed below, though additional damages may be available based on the facts of the case:

  • Reasonable funeral and burial expenses
  • Emotional trauma
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Medical bills
  • Lost income

Proof for a Claim

For a successful claim, the plaintiff must generally be able to demonstrate that the decedent’s death occurred as the result of the reckless or careless action of another. This is called negligence, and an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Hixson may be able to help gather enough evidence to prove the at-fault party was negligent, and that this negligence led to the death.

Deadlines for Filing a Claim

All personal injury claims are subject to a statute of limitations. This statute usually requires that actions be filed within one year of the decedent’s date of death. While there are exceptions to this rule, it is advisable to file a claim within this timeframe to avoid any issues. A Hixson wrongful death lawyer could help one file a claim within the statute of limitations.

Let a Hixson Wrongful Death Attorney Be an Advocate

If someone you love died as a result of negligence, you deserve to seek recovery for damages. A compassionate Hixson wrongful death lawyer could answer your questions and help build a strong case for compensation.

We understand no amount of recovery can bring back someone you lost, but you may be able to move on with the knowledge that you received some form of justice. Call us when you are ready and schedule a consultation.