Bautista LeRoy LLC offers information related to family rights for wrongful death claims after a car accident. Our attorneys have provided legal services in Southern Illinois and St Louis for many years, with attorneys providing key areas like medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, personal injuries and sexual assault/abuse as well as railroad cross litigation to clients seeking effective results for each case brought to us.

This article explains the rights of families seeking to file a wrongful death suit, when to do it and the potential compensations available.

Can Families Sue for Wrongful Death After A Car Accident?

Certain family members can file a civil suit if someone they love dies because of negligent driving. Typically immediate relatives such as the spouse, parents and children. The specific eligibility varies by state. However, their aim remains the same - to provide financial support for those left behind.

Wrongful death claims aim to compensate not just financial but emotional losses too. It provides legal options that allow people to recover damages such as income lost, medical costs related to prior death and funeral costs.

When Can You File For Wrongful Death Following A Car Accident?

Statute of Limitations refers to legal deadlines that vary between states and can limit or prevent your right to sue if filed too late.

One can only file suit once:

• The car accident has been confirmed to have caused the death.
• The evidence of wrongdoing by those at fault has already been established.

What Are The Financial Awards You May Be Entitled To?

Wrongful death claims have various financial awards to cover tangible and intangible losses that arise as a result of an unfortunate death, with compensation awarded to families left behind.

Potential financial awards could include:

• Medical and Funeral Expenses
• Loss of Income and Support
• Loss of Companionship
• Pain and Suffering
• Punitive Damages

Why Is Hiring A Personal Injury Attorney Beneficial?

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit is no simple matter. After experiencing loss, dealing with the legal system can be daunting and complex. Having access to an experienced personal injury attorney during these trying times may prove invaluable.

An experienced attorney can:

• Explain Your Rights Clearly
• Investigate The Accident Thoroughly
• Handle Insurance Companies
• Negotiate On Your Behalf
• Maximize The Compensation

When Should You Hire an Attorney?

It is wise to hire an attorney immediately - this gives them time to collect evidence while memories and physical proof remain fresh. 

Hiring an attorney early also ensures all paperwork is filed on time, protecting against delays that might compromise the right to sue. Before signing any documents or making recordings for an insurance company, it would be prudent to seek legal advice first.

What Are the Criteria for Selecting an Attorney?

• Expertise: Hire an attorney experienced with handling wrongful death and car accident cases.
• Proven Results: Choose an attorney who has successfully secured or negotiated large settlements.
• Communication and Empathy: Attorneys should communicate clearly while showing empathy throughout the legal process.

Why Choose Bautista LeRoy LLC?

Bautista LeRoy Law Firm specializes in handling car accident wrongful death lawsuits. Our legal experts understand the immense emotional and financial strain this type of litigation places upon families and strive to make things as easy as possible for them.

Our trial experience allows us to craft compelling cases on behalf of our clients. We prioritize clear and effective communication throughout the legal proceedings, taking great care in respecting any specific needs or worries our clients might have.

Suggested Action Steps

• Contact an attorney with experience handling cases of wrongful deaths to explore all your options.
• Gather important documents, such as police reports and medical records.
• Keep a comprehensive record of financial losses and their emotional effects.
• Before speaking with any insurance company, always consult your attorney first.

Understanding your rights and acting quickly are keys to getting through this difficult period. Working with a wrongful death attorney could also prove immensely helpful. Contact us today at 833-381-6589 or send us an email on our Contact Page. Serving the surrounding areas of St. Louis, Benton County, Southern Illinois as well as Kansas City, MO and KS.