Losing a loved one in a sudden accident changes everything. Families in Fort Worth often face these devastating losses on high-traffic corridors like I-35W, I-20, and the Chisholm Trail Parkway. In the days and weeks that follow, grief is compounded by medical bills, insurance paperwork, and the uncertainty of how to move forward. We help you take steady steps toward accountability and closure, ensuring that your family’s rights are protected while you focus on healing.
Across Tarrant County, wrongful death cases require both compassion and precision. Our team understands how to work with local agencies, hospitals, and courts to preserve evidence and build strong claims. While most families have up to two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas, acting quickly helps ensure crucial records and witness statements are not lost.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group?
Choosing the right Fort Worth wrongful death attorney is about trust, transparency, and a deep understanding of our community. We are committed to helping families rebuild after loss through attentive guidance and legal experience rooted in compassion.
Compassionate, Family-First Representation
We understand that no amount of money can replace the loss of someone you love. Our focus is on supporting you through the process—listening to your story, answering your questions, and taking on the legal burden so you can prioritize your family and your healing.
Local Knowledge of Fort Worth Courts and Community Resources
We regularly handle cases in the Tarrant County Civil District and Probate Courts, working closely with clerks and judges to keep cases moving efficiently. Our knowledge of local procedures, mediation practices, and record systems helps us navigate the process smoothly.
Proven Experience Handling Complex Fatal Accident Cases
Wrongful death claims often involve layers of liability and extensive documentation. We coordinate with the Fort Worth Police Department, TxDOT investigators, and private reconstruction experts to uncover every detail. Whether the case involves a highway crash, workplace death, or unsafe property, we ensure no piece of evidence is overlooked.
Bilingual and Community-Focused Advocacy
Fort Worth’s strength lies in its diversity. We are proud to offer bilingual representation and support for Spanish-speaking families throughout Tarrant County. Our outreach extends beyond the courtroom through local safety education programs and community initiatives focused on supporting victims and their loved ones.
Why Fort Worth Cases Are Different
Wrongful death car accident cases in Fort Worth require a detailed understanding of the city’s infrastructure and traffic flow. Interstate corridors, toll systems, and suburban development all contribute to the unique conditions that cause serious and fatal crashes. Understanding these environments helps us collect the right data and pinpoint fault.
I-35W and I-20: High-Speed Corridors and Heavy Freight Traffic
These highways see a mix of commuter vehicles and long-haul trucks. Collisions here often involve severe impact speeds and complex multi-vehicle investigations. Accessing TxDOT CRIS data and FWPD crash reports helps establish liability and timing.
Chisholm Trail Parkway and Loop 820: Toll Roads and Complex Jurisdictions
Evidence from NTTA toll records and 511DFW traffic feeds can be critical in reconstructing events along these corridors. We know how to secure these data sources quickly before they are overwritten or archived.
I-30 and US-287: Urban and Suburban Overlap
Crashes on I-30 and US-287 frequently involve a mix of local commuters, construction traffic, and unpredictable visibility conditions. We use footage from nearby businesses and city cameras to create a clear account of what happened.
Urban and Rural Factors Across Tarrant County
From the Alliance industrial corridor to smaller towns on the outskirts, environmental and speed-related factors differ widely. We tailor every investigation to the specific conditions of the crash, accounting for lighting, surface type, and roadway maintenance records.
First Steps After a Fort Worth Wrongful Death
When tragedy strikes, understanding what to do next can feel overwhelming. The first few actions a family takes after a fatal crash can have a lasting impact on how the case unfolds.
Requesting Official Crash Reports and Medical Examiner Records
We help families obtain Fort Worth Police Department and TxDOT CR-3 crash reports as soon as they become available. We also request records from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner, which often provide vital details about timing and causation.
Collecting MedStar and Hospital Documentation
Emergency response and hospital records from MedStar, JPS Health Network, and Texas Health Harris Methodist can help connect injuries to the event and prove damages. These records are essential in establishing both medical facts and the timeline of care.
Coordinating Funeral and Documentation Needs
Families often need guidance in gathering receipts and contracts for funeral expenses. We coordinate with local service providers and ensure that these costs are accurately reflected in the claim.
Preserving Evidence and Personal Items
When vehicles are impounded or property is collected, it is critical to act quickly. We assist with tow-yard releases and ensure all relevant photographs, dashcam footage, or damaged belongings are preserved for later use in litigation.
Where Claims Are Filed in Fort Worth
The legal venue for a wrongful death claim depends on several factors, including where the accident occurred and who the parties are. Understanding where to file helps ensure your case moves efficiently through the proper channels.
Tarrant County Civil District Courts
Most wrongful death and survival action claims in Fort Worth are handled through these courts. We prepare all filings according to local procedural requirements and stay proactive with scheduling orders to avoid unnecessary delays.
Probate Court Considerations
In cases involving estates or multiple beneficiaries, filings often overlap with the Tarrant County Probate Courts. We help families navigate both systems simultaneously, ensuring coordination between estate matters and active litigation.
Cross-Jurisdiction and Venue Adjustments
When incidents involve multiple defendants or companies headquartered outside Tarrant County, we evaluate whether a venue change would better serve the client’s interest. This step can be crucial for efficiency, fairness, and access to relevant witnesses.
Common Local Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death claims in Fort Worth arise from a range of preventable circumstances. Understanding these patterns helps identify responsible parties and strengthen your case.
High-Speed Corridor and Interstate Collisions
I-35W, I-20, and I-30 are among the most dangerous routes in Texas. Fatal crashes often involve commercial trucks, aggressive driving, or poor weather visibility. We collect FWPD data, TxDOT findings, and 511DFW footage to document these conditions.
Construction Zone and Roadway Hazards
Frequent construction on I-35, Loop 820, I-30, and residential developments can create unsafe lane shifts and poor signage. We review contracts and safety audits from roadway contractors to determine accountability.
Industrial and Oilfield Incidents
Tarrant County’s expanding industrial zones see frequent heavy-equipment and transportation accidents. OSHA and NTSB findings are often incorporated into our investigations to establish negligence.
Waterway and Recreational Fatalities
Tragedies along the Trinity River and local parks may involve inadequate barriers, signage, or supervision. We work with city agencies and insurance adjusters to examine liability and maintenance records.
Building Evidence in Fort Worth
Strong wrongful death cases depend on thorough documentation and timely collection of evidence. In Fort Worth, access to digital records and surveillance footage can make all the difference in establishing what truly happened. We guide families through each step of this process, ensuring that every available source of information is secured and preserved.
Traffic Cameras and 511DFW Data
The city’s network of traffic cameras and the 511DFW system provide reliable insights into traffic conditions, weather, and visibility at the time of an incident. We work to obtain this footage quickly before it cycles out of storage, capturing vital details such as vehicle speed, lane position, and light timing.
NTTA and Toll Records
For crashes occurring on toll roads like the Chisholm Trail Parkway or Loop 820, NTTA records can confirm time stamps, vehicle locations, and direction of travel. These data points often reinforce witness testimony or help establish sequence of events.
Business and Residential CCTV
Cameras positioned outside businesses, gas stations, or residential driveways frequently capture footage that law enforcement may not retrieve. We contact local property owners immediately to request preservation of this evidence through formal notice letters.
Event Data Recorders and Expert Analysis
Modern vehicles contain event data recorders, sometimes called “black boxes,” that log speed, braking, and impact forces. We coordinate with certified experts to extract and interpret this data safely, supplementing it with expert reconstruction reports that illustrate exactly how the crash unfolded.
Medical and Funeral Costs After a Fatal Accident
Families often face significant financial strain after losing a loved one. Understanding what expenses can be recovered in a wrongful death or survival action is essential for building a complete claim.
Medical and Trauma Care Expenses
Hospitals such as JPS Health Network, Texas Health Harris Methodist, and Baylor Scott & White All Saints provide trauma care and extended treatment that can result in substantial bills. We gather these records and coordinate directly with billing departments to ensure that every cost tied to the crash is documented.
Funeral and Burial Costs
Funeral and burial expenses can be included in your claim as part of the financial loss sustained by the family. We help collect contracts, invoices, and receipts from local service providers so they can be properly presented as recoverable damages.
Loss of Income and Household Support
A wrongful death claim also accounts for the financial contributions your loved one would have continued to provide. We work with economists and financial professionals to calculate the impact of lost income and household services specific to your family’s needs.
Emotional and Non-Economic Losses
Texas law allows recovery for mental anguish, loss of companionship, and the emotional suffering experienced by surviving family members. We help you communicate these losses clearly so the full weight of your family’s experience is recognized.
Insurance Reality Check for Fort Worth Families
Insurance negotiations following a fatal accident are often complicated by policy limits, exclusions, and multiple defendants. We manage these communications carefully to protect families from tactics that minimize or delay payment.
Understanding Coverage and Policy Limits
Commercial policies often include higher liability limits, but insurers may still dispute coverage or fault. We analyze every available policy—auto, commercial, and umbrella—to identify all potential recovery sources.
UM and UIM Coverage in Texas
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can provide a crucial safety net if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. We handle these claims directly, ensuring proper notice is given and that your family receives the protection you pay for. You can obtain this coverage through your auto insurance provider by selecting UM and UIM limits that match or exceed your liability coverage. Having this protection in place is important because it can help cover medical bills, lost income, and other damages when the other driver cannot.
Dealing with Adjuster Tactics
Insurers sometimes delay claims or attempt quick settlements that undervalue your case. We step in immediately to manage correspondence and prevent misrepresentation of your family’s rights.
Property and Secondary Damage Claims
When a fatal crash involves multiple vehicles or property damage, we include repair or replacement costs for items such as vehicles, equipment, or personal effects. Each loss connected to the incident is included in the overall demand.
Survival Action vs. Wrongful Death in Tarrant County
Texas recognizes two separate but related claims after a fatal accident: wrongful death and survival actions. Each provides different rights and benefits for families. Understanding both ensures that all potential recovery paths are pursued.
Key Legal Differences
A wrongful death claim compensates family members for the emotional and financial impact of losing a loved one, while a survival action allows recovery for damages the deceased could have claimed had they survived, such as pain and medical costs.
Who Can File Each Claim
Under Texas law, spouses, children, and parents are eligible to file wrongful death claims. The estate’s representative may file the survival action, which can be distributed through probate. We handle both processes together to avoid conflict or duplication.
Types of Damages Available
Wrongful death claims may include mental anguish, loss of companionship, and financial support, while survival actions may recover for medical expenses, pain, and suffering prior to death. We present each category with supporting records and expert statements.
Coordinating Probate and Civil Proceedings
In Tarrant County, wrongful death and survival actions often proceed in different courts. We coordinate between the Civil District and Probate Courts to maintain consistent filings and prevent delays in distribution.
Timelines and Venues in Fort Worth Wrongful Death Cases
Procedural timelines and venue selection are key factors in how a wrongful death case progresses in Tarrant County. Each case moves according to its own rhythm, shaped by the number of defendants, the complexity of the evidence, and the court’s scheduling availability. Some matters resolve within months through structured negotiation, while others take longer because of contested liability or extensive expert testimony.
Mediation and Early Resolution
Mediation is widely encouraged in Fort Worth wrongful death cases because it allows families to resolve disputes privately and with dignity. This process often happens after the exchange of evidence but before trial, offering a controlled environment for meaningful negotiation. We work closely with clients to prepare mediation statements, highlight key evidence, and ensure every offer reflects the full scope of the family’s loss.
Discovery and Scheduling Orders
Once a case is filed, the court issues scheduling orders that set deadlines for depositions, expert disclosures, and evidence exchange. These orders are designed to keep cases on track, but strict adherence is critical to prevent delays or procedural penalties. We manage each stage proactively, coordinating with experts, medical providers, and investigators to meet every court requirement ahead of time.
Trial Expectations
When mediation does not produce a fair resolution, we move forward fully prepared for trial. Our attorneys plan every case as though it will be presented before a jury, organizing exhibits, witness testimony, and visual evidence from day one. This approach not only strengthens settlement leverage but also ensures that, if trial becomes necessary, we are ready to deliver compelling, fact-driven arguments.
Statute of Limitations
Texas law generally gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim, though certain exceptions may extend this period. Cases involving minors, government entities, or delayed investigations can trigger special timing considerations. Acting quickly allows us to secure accident reports, witness statements, and other evidence before it becomes unavailable.
Community Support and Records Coordination
Losing a loved one creates challenges that extend far beyond legal proceedings. Families must cope with emotional healing, financial management, and ongoing documentation needs long after the courtroom work ends. We provide support that bridges these areas, connecting clients with trusted resources and helping them organize important records for future use.
Local Grief and Mental Health Resources
In the months following a loss, compassionate community care is essential. Organizations such as Mental Health for Heroes and local grief support centers provide therapy and counseling for adults, children, and first responders impacted by trauma. We encourage families to use these programs as part of their overall recovery plan.
Public Records and Documentation Assistance
Wrongful death cases often generate a large amount of paperwork, including medical files, billing summaries, and official court documents. We help clients obtain certified copies of death certificates, probate filings, and settlement documentation to use for insurance claims, benefits applications, or estate matters.
Coordination With Community Services
Our relationship with clients continues even after the legal case closes. We remain available to help families manage follow-up requests from courts, insurers, or financial institutions. This ongoing coordination prevents confusion and ensures compliance with any post-settlement or probate requirements.
Ongoing Education and Outreach
Beyond legal advocacy, we invest in community safety and education throughout Fort Worth. Our team contributes to local programs that promote safer driving habits and raise awareness of accident prevention. Through initiatives such as the Driving Change podcast and partnerships with schools and nonprofits, we help families understand their rights while encouraging responsible behavior on the road.
Wrongful Death in Fort Worth? Contact Patterson Law Group
When your family is ready to move forward, we are here to help you take the next step with clarity and compassion. Our team will handle every detail of your claim—investigating the facts, communicating with insurers, and managing the legal process—so you can focus on healing.
Contact Patterson Law Group today to learn how we can help your family pursue justice after a wrongful death in Fort Worth or anywhere in Tarrant County. During this meeting, we will review your situation, explain your rights under Texas law, and outline what comes next. You do not have to face this alone—reach out today to begin the path toward accountability and peace of mind.
Fort Worth Wrongful Death FAQs
What qualifies as a wrongful death under Texas law?
A wrongful death occurs when a person’s death is caused by another’s wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default. In Texas, this includes fatal accidents caused by negligent drivers, unsafe property conditions, defective products, or workplace hazards. If the person who caused the death could have been held liable had the victim survived, their surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases are civil, meaning they seek financial compensation rather than criminal punishment, and they are meant to hold negligent parties accountable for the harm they caused.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Fort Worth, Texas?
Under Texas law, the surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased have the right to file a wrongful death claim. If none of these family members file within three months, the executor or personal representative of the estate may bring the case instead. Each eligible relative may choose to file separately or together as part of one claim. Filing together often helps ensure that damages are divided fairly and that the family’s case is presented with a unified voice before the court.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Texas?
In most cases, families have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. However, there are some exceptions. For example, the time limit may be extended if the claimant is a minor, if the responsible party concealed their role, or if an ongoing investigation delayed discovery of key evidence. Because every case has unique facts, it is best to speak with a Fort Worth wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to preserve your right to file before critical evidence is lost.
What types of damages can be recovered in a Texas wrongful death case?
Texas law allows surviving family members to seek both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include loss of the deceased’s income, medical expenses, and funeral costs. Non-economic damages address emotional and personal losses such as mental anguish, loss of companionship, and loss of care and guidance. In particularly severe cases involving gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing, families may also be eligible for exemplary damages, sometimes referred to as punitive damages, meant to discourage similar behavior in the future.
How do Fort Worth wrongful death attorneys prove negligence?
Proving negligence requires showing that another party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused a death as a direct result. In Fort Worth, attorneys use local evidence such as FWPD crash reports, TxDOT CR-3 data, MedStar medical records, and testimony from reconstruction experts to establish fault. Additional materials like business CCTV, 511DFW traffic footage, or toll data may also help confirm how an accident occurred. By combining these technical details with witness statements and expert opinions, we build a comprehensive case that demonstrates how negligence led to a preventable loss.
Can more than one family member recover compensation for the same wrongful death?
Yes. Multiple eligible family members—such as a spouse, parents, or children—may each receive compensation. The court or settlement agreement will determine how the total award is divided among the beneficiaries. Typically, distribution is based on the extent of each family member’s financial and emotional loss. Working with a single attorney or firm ensures that every eligible claimant is represented fairly and that disputes about division of funds are minimized.
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action in Texas?
A wrongful death claim compensates surviving family members for their personal losses resulting from the death, such as loss of companionship and financial support. A survival action, on the other hand, is brought by the estate on behalf of the deceased to recover damages they could have claimed if they had survived—such as medical expenses, pain, and suffering before death. In Tarrant County, both claims can proceed together, often requiring coordination between the Civil District and Probate Courts. Managing them simultaneously ensures that the full scope of damages is addressed efficiently and accurately.
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer in Fort Worth?
Most wrongful death attorneys, including our firm, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and attorney fees are collected only if your case results in a settlement or judgment. The percentage is agreed upon before representation begins and covers legal preparation, court filings, investigations, and expert witnesses. This structure ensures that all families, regardless of financial means, have access to quality legal representation during a difficult time.
What evidence is needed to build a strong wrongful death case?
A successful wrongful death case depends on comprehensive evidence that clearly demonstrates how the death occurred and who is responsible. Essential materials include FWPD or TxDOT crash reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, medical records, and proof of expenses. In complex cases, additional evidence may involve vehicle black box data, business surveillance, 511DFW traffic footage, or documentation from workplace safety agencies like OSHA. The goal is to present a clear, factual timeline that connects negligent actions directly to the loss suffered by the family.
How are wrongful death settlements or verdicts calculated in Texas?
Settlements and verdicts are based on measurable financial losses as well as emotional damages experienced by surviving family members. Courts consider factors such as the deceased’s age, income, life expectancy, and relationship to each claimant. Non-economic damages are evaluated by assessing the emotional impact on each family member and the extent to which the loss affects their lives. Attorneys use expert testimony, economic analysis, and personal accounts to demonstrate the value of both tangible and intangible losses, ensuring the family receives fair compensation.
Can I file a wrongful death lawsuit if criminal charges were not filed?
Yes. A civil wrongful death lawsuit is separate from any criminal proceedings. Even if prosecutors do not pursue or obtain criminal charges, a family may still bring a civil case to seek financial accountability. The standard of proof in civil court is lower than in criminal court—meaning you only need to show that the defendant was more likely than not responsible for the death. Many families find that a civil case provides a path to justice even when the criminal process does not result in punishment.
What happens if the person responsible for the death is uninsured or leaves the state?
When the at-fault party is uninsured, underinsured, or relocates, recovery may still be possible through multiple channels. Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, employer policies, or third-party liability claims can all serve as potential sources of compensation. If the defendant moves out of Texas, we can still pursue the case through jurisdictional procedures that allow service and collection across state lines. The key is identifying all responsible parties early, including employers, contractors, or insurance carriers linked to the incident.
How long does a wrongful death case usually take to resolve?
The timeline for a wrongful death case in Fort Worth varies depending on evidence availability, the number of defendants, and whether liability is contested. Some cases settle in mediation within several months, while others involving multiple parties or expert testimony may take a year or longer. From the beginning, we outline a realistic schedule, monitor court deadlines, and communicate regularly so families know what to expect at each stage. Our priority is to move the case forward efficiently without compromising the thoroughness of the investigation.
Are wrongful death settlements taxable in Texas?
In most cases, wrongful death settlements are not taxable under federal or Texas law. Compensation for physical injury or death, including emotional suffering and loss of income related to the deceased’s life, is generally excluded from taxable income. However, certain portions of a settlement—such as punitive damages or accrued interest—may be subject to taxation. Before finalizing any settlement, we coordinate with financial advisors and tax professionals to ensure your family fully understands the implications and receives the maximum possible benefit.
