Baytown Wrongful Death Lawyer

The unexpected death of a family member is an unspeakable tragedy. It is particularly devastating when the fatal accident was due to someone else’s negligent, reckless, or wrongful conduct. Surviving relatives can sue the person responsible for their loved one’s death under Texas’ wrongful death laws.

Wrongful death cases are serious matters that require an experienced personal injury attorney. Our compassionate team understands you are grieving the loss of your loved one and emotions are high. The last thing you should be worried about is the financial fallout from the accident. Fortunately, state law allows for certain surviving family members to recover these losses.

While there is no amount of money can bring back your family member, a significant compensation award should give you the ability to move forward after the loss. Contact a Baytown wrongful death lawyer to learn more about your legal rights.

Fatal Accidents Leading to Wrongful Death Claims

There are many different accidents that can give rise to a wrongful death claim. Any accident due to someone else’s negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct can be grounds for this type of lawsuit. Companies and other entities can also be responsible when a defective product or drug causes someone’s death. Some common fatal accidents that lead to wrongful death claims include:

• Car accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Defective products
• Dangerous drugs
• Work or construction injuries
• Maritime accidents
• Premises liability accidents
• Pedestrian accidents

Many people do not realize they have a wrongful death case until they speak to a legal professional. No matter what caused a loved one’s death, it is a good idea to consult an experienced Baytown wrongful death lawyer.

Applying the Wrongful Death Act

When someone dies due to the negligent actions of someone else, they are entitled to damages just as a personal injury victim would be. In these situations, their loved ones must step in and bring the claim on their behalf to hold the person or entity responsible for the fatal injury.

Under Texas’ Wrongful Death Act, only certain family members can file an action for the loss of a loved one. Surviving spouses, children, or parents can bring a wrongful death case, but romantic partners, fiancés, siblings, grandparents, or grandchildren cannot. The executor of the decedent’s estate could also bring the claim.

Compensation in a wrongful death case may cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of earnings, loss of services, care, support, or companionship. A family member’s emotional distress and mental health expenses could also be compensable. An experienced Baytown lawyer could advise family members of what losses are recoverable under the wrongful death statute and they may identify available compensation that the family was not even aware of.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death

In this state, surviving relatives have two years to bring a wrongful death suit against the person or entity they believe was responsible. If the family or estate fails to meet this deadline, they could lose their right to recovery. While there are exceptions to the statute of limitations, speaking with a Baytown lawyer quickly after the incident should increase the odds of success.

Learn How a Baytown Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

When you recently lost a loved one due to another person’s or entity’s negligent, reckless, or wrongful conduct, you should seek the legal advice of a trusted Baytown wrongful death lawyer. No matter what caused your loved one’s death, Schechter, Shaffer & Harris is here to help during this difficult time.

Our attorneys work with you to gather evidence that supports the claim of wrongful death, hire expert witnesses, and negotiate with opposing counsel or insurance companies on your behalf. Please contact our office for a free consultation of your potential claim.