Dealing with the loss of a loved one due to wrongful death is an incredibly difficult and overwhelming experience. In addition to coping with the emotional impact, families are often left with financial stress and legal questions. Understanding your rights and the legal options available is crucial to ensuring that those responsible for the death are held accountable. At Hodges & Foty, LLP, we are committed to helping families affected by wrongful death, offering the guidance and advocacy needed to seek justice during this challenging time.
With years of experience and a strong track record, our dedicated team of Houston wrongful death lawyers can be a trusted ally every step of the way. Whether your loved one’s death was caused by a vehicle accident, defective product, or another form of negligence, we are here to help. Our goal is to hold the liable parties accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve for your loss. Contact us at (713) 523-0001 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Breaking Down a Wrongful Death Claim
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies due to the negligent or wrongful actions of another. In Texas, wrongful death claims are designed to provide surviving family members with a legal avenue to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one. Unlike other personal injury claims, wrongful death cases focus on the impact the death has had on the surviving family, rather than the pain and suffering of the deceased. Texas law allows close relatives, such as spouses, children, and parents, to pursue this type of claim, ensuring that those most affected by the loss are able to seek justice.
Filing a wrongful death claim can be a complex and emotional process. It involves proving that the responsible party acted negligently or wrongfully, and that this behavior directly led to the death. A Houston wrongful death attorney can guide grieving families through this legal journey, helping them understand their rights and the legal options available to them. The sooner a claim is initiated, the more likely it is to preserve critical evidence and meet Texas’ filing deadlines.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death can occur under a wide range of circumstances, with motor vehicle accidents being one of the most common causes. Other scenarios include medical malpractice, dangerous property conditions, and defective products. In each case, a failure to act responsibly or follow proper safety standards can result in a fatality. Identifying the exact cause of the death is crucial to building a strong wrongful death case, as it allows the family to pinpoint who may be held accountable.
In addition to identifying the cause, it is important to determine the liable parties. Liability can rest on individuals, companies, or even multiple entities, depending on the circumstances. For example, in a car accident, another driver may be at fault, but in a workplace incident, the employer or equipment manufacturer could bear responsibility. A Houston wrongful death lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause and those responsible, helping the family build a solid case for compensation.
Types of Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases
In a wrongful death case, family members may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help ease the financial and emotional burdens caused by the loss. One major aspect of compensation is the financial support the deceased would have provided to their family, such as income, benefits, and other financial contributions. Additionally, families can pursue damages for funeral and burial expenses, which can add significant financial stress during an already difficult time.
Beyond economic losses, families may also seek non-economic damages for the emotional pain and suffering they endure, both in the past and for the future. This includes the loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support that the deceased would have provided. These non-economic damages can be difficult to quantify, but they are often the most significant part of a wrongful death claim.
Contact a Houston Wrongful Death Attorney for a Free Consultation Today
At Hodges & Foty, LLP, we understand the devastating impact that losing a loved one can have on a family. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the legal complexities of a wrongful death claim with compassion and professionalism. With years of experience handling sensitive and challenging cases, we are committed to securing justice for your family and holding the responsible parties accountable.
If your family has suffered a wrongful death, reach out to us today. We are ready to discuss your case and provide the support you need during this difficult time. Contact us at (713) 523-0001 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.