When you lose a family member because of the negligence of another person or company, there is nothing that can replace that person or ease your pain. However, a wrongful death suit could help to alleviate the financial strain you face. It also allows you to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
Here is what you need to know about wrongful death lawsuits in Texas.
Who can file a wrongful death suit?
You can bring a wrongful death case if you are the spouse, child or parent of a person who lost their life due to the criminal or careless actions of someone else. To qualify, a wrongful death must meet the following conditions:
- An injury led to the decedent’s death
- Another person’s wrongful act, negligence or carelessness caused the injury
- The decedent would have been eligible to file a personal injury claim for the injury if they had not died
Motor vehicle and trucking collisions, medical malpractice, defective products and workplace accidents commonly lead to wrongful death suits. You can pursue such a case against an individual, corporation or public entity.
What compensation is available?
You may receive compensation for both quantifiable and non-quantifiable losses associated with the death of your loved one. Financial damages include medical costs, funeral and burial expenses, lost wages and lost inheritance. Other damages include those that are harder to place a monetary value on, such as mental anguish and loss of love and companionship.
In Texas, You must file a lawsuit within two years of the death of your family member. You may need to act quickly to ensure you recover the compensation you need to support you during this difficult time.
