Wrongful death occurs when someone’s negligence or misconduct leads to the loss of another person’s life. When a loved one is the victim of such a devastating event, a wrongful death attorney can help McKinney families seek justice and compensation. The first step in this difficult process is understanding exactly who can bring a wrongful death claim. Here are the facts you need to know about legal beneficiaries in a wrongful death claim.
Who Can Recover Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim?
When you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be completely overwhelmed with all the information available. Wrongful death can be complex and it can be difficult to understand all the legal terms and issues that go hand in hand with your case. That is why you need an experienced attorney to guide you and your family through this difficult time. If you have any specific questions about your case, you need to refer to your wrongful death attorney.
Who Can Sue in a Wrongful Death Case?
One of the most common questions we get asked regarding wrongful death is who can file a suit? In Texas, a parent, spouse, or child can file a wrongful death suit. Unfortunately, siblings are not allowed to bring a suit for wrongful death for the loss of a brother or sister. Each family member can bring their own individual case for wrongful death or they can file a suit together. It is important that you discuss your case first with an attorney so you can determine the best way to proceed. Your attorney will explain the facts about wrongful death claims to prepare you for the process ahead.
What Damages Can Beneficiaries Receive?
When legal beneficiaries sue for wrongful death, they request compensation for the damages they have suffered. Of course, no amount of money can replace your family member but financial support can ease some other worries. If your loved one accumulated medical bills before their death, you can receive compensation for them. You may also receive other damages such as pain and suffering for you and your loved one, loss of income, loss of companionship, and more. Depending on the facts in your case, you may be eligible for exemplary damages.
What Are Exemplary Damages in a Wrongful Death Case?
Exemplary damages in wrongful death cases are awarded against defendants who are found to have acted with gross negligence, malice or fraud. Also called punitive damages, this type of award is intended to deter parties from engaging in similar behavior in the future. Examples where exemplary damages may be awarded include drunk driving, violent conduct, and exceptional recklessness with indifference to human life. When you hire a McKinney litigation attorney, they will evaluate whether seeking exemplary damages is appropriate in your circumstances.
Speak With a Wrongful Death Lawyer in McKinney
Lucé Law, PC is an established Texas law firm providing legal representation for clients in Collin County and beyond. Contact us today for compassionate support and guidance with a wrongful death claim. To reach us, call (972) 632-1300 or request a free legal consultation.
