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915-544-5200Horizon City, Texas Wrongful Death Lawyer
Attorney Providing Legal Representation in Wrongful Death Claims in Horizon City, TX
When someone else's negligence or misconduct results in the loss of a loved one, a family may struggle to address their loss and move forward. The emotional and financial burdens that follow a loved one's passing can be overwhelming. Wrongful death claims provide a legal avenue for surviving family members to secure compensation for their losses. While these claims cannot undo the pain of losing a loved one, they can provide financial relief to help families move forward.
James Kennedy, P.L.L.C. understands the impact of wrongful death cases, and we are committed to helping families secure justice in these situations. With extensive experience handling wrongful death claims, our team will work diligently to obtain fair compensation for families who have suffered tragic losses. We are available 24/7, and we are here to serve as a support system during this difficult time.
Understanding Texas Wrongful Death Laws
Texas law allows certain family members, including the deceased's spouse, children, and parents, to file a wrongful death claim. If none of these parties file a claim within three months of the death, the estate's representative may pursue legal action unless the family objects.
Texas' statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is normally two years from the date of death. However, there can be exceptions, such as when the responsible party was a government entity or when the cause of death was not immediately obvious. Wrongful death cases require proving that:
- A person's death was caused by another party's wrongful actions, neglect, carelessness, or recklessness
- The surviving family members have suffered damages due to the death
- The responsible party can be held liable under state law
By working with our experienced wrongful death attorney, families can ensure that their legal rights are protected while their claims are being pursued.
Wrongful Death Claims
Compensation from a wrongful death claim is intended to address the financial and emotional hardships caused by the passing of a loved one. In Texas, families may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Loss of Income: This includes wages and financial support the deceased would have provided to their family.
- Loss of Companionship: This encompasses the emotional impact of losing a spouse, parent, or child.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation can cover any costs for treatment related to the accident that led to a person's death.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: This can cover the expenses related to laying a loved one to rest.
- Mental Anguish: Surviving family members may be compensated for the emotional suffering they have endured.
- Loss of Household Services: Wrongful death claims may cover the value of essential tasks the deceased would have performed, like childcare, housekeeping, or home maintenance.
In some instances, families may receive punitive damages if the wrongful death was caused by extreme negligence or intentional harm. These damages punish the responsible party and help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Vehicle Accidents
Car accidents, truck wrecks, and motorcycle crashes are among the leading causes of wrongful death. Drivers who engage in reckless behavior, such as speeding, drunk driving, or distracted driving, may be held accountable for the loss of life they have caused.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable in collisions with motor vehicles. When drivers run red lights, text, or fail to yield, they put pedestrians and cyclists at risk of fatal injuries.
Premises Liability Accidents
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions on their premises. Hazardous conditions such as inadequate security, unsafe stairways, or structural collapses can cause catastrophic accidents.
Medical Malpractice
Medical professionals are expected to provide a standard level of care. When a doctor, nurse, or hospital fails to properly diagnose a condition, administers the wrong treatment, makes a surgical error, or otherwise provides negligent care, the consequences can be deadly. A wrongful death claim can hold medical providers accountable for their negligence.
Defective Products
Manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe for consumers. Fatal injuries can happen because of defective auto parts, malfunctioning medical devices, dangerous pharmaceuticals, hazardous household products, or other products that are dangerous or defective.
Criminal Acts
Wrongful death claims can also address intentional acts such as assault, homicide, or other criminal activities. Even if a criminal case is pursued separately, a civil wrongful death lawsuit may provide compensation to surviving family members.
Contact Our Horizon City Wrongful Death Attorney
When dealing with the loss of a loved one because of someone else's carelessness, recklessness, or intentional actions, it is essential to seek the guidance of a skilled lawyer. James Kennedy, P.L.L.C. is dedicated to helping families obtain justice and financial recovery through wrongful death claims. To discuss your case in a free consultation, contact us today at 915-544-5200.