After a fatal vehicle accident, there may be more than one type of legal claim to consider.
A wrongful death claim focuses on the losses experienced by surviving family members, such as the loss of financial support, care, guidance, and companionship.
In some cases, there may also be a related claim on behalf of the person’s estate. That claim may address losses connected to the injury before death, including medical expenses or other damages that belong to the estate.
These claims can involve different legal issues and may be handled together. Jose can review your family’s situation, explain which claims may apply, and help you understand the next steps.
What Compensation May Be Available?
No amount of compensation can replace the person your family has lost. A fatal accident may give rise to a wrongful death claim and, in some circumstances, a related claim on behalf of the person’s estate. These claims may help address financial and personal losses caused by the accident.
Depending on the circumstances, a claim may seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to the fatal injury
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income and financial support
- The loss of companionship, guidance, care, and support
- The emotional impact of the loss on surviving family members
The available compensation depends on the facts of the accident, the evidence, insurance coverage, and your family’s specific loss. Jose can review these factors and provide an honest assessment of your options.
Investigating What Caused the Crash
After a fatal vehicle accident, the answers your family needs may not be clear right away. Determining what happened can require a careful review of the evidence and the actions of everyone involved.
Depending on the accident, that may include reviewing:
- Police and accident reports
- Photos, video, and vehicle damage
- Witness statements
- Phone records or other evidence of distracted driving
- Driver, company, or vehicle-maintenance records
- Available insurance coverage
More than one person or company may be responsible for a fatal crash. Jose can investigate the circumstances, identify the parties who may be responsible, and help your family understand what the evidence shows.
It is important to review the situation quickly, since video, vehicle data, witness information, and other evidence may become harder to obtain over time.
