According to crash data from the Texas Department of Transportation, there were close to 5,000 lives lost in fatal auto wrecks across the state in a single year (2021.) And Forth Worth ranks fourth in the list of most dangerous Texas cities for drivers.
The loss of a loved one in a fatal motor vehicle wreck is undeniably devasting. That pain is compounded by the financial burden associated with medical bills, funeral expenses, medical bills, and other costs.
Fort Worth fatal car accident attorneys with Patterson Law Group are here to help. We handle wrongful death claims with care and compassion, working hard to obtain the compensation you deserve after a devastating loss.
What Are the Leading Causes of Fatal Car Accidents?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that approximately 90 people die every day in the United States in fatal auto wrecks. Speeding, impaired driving, and not using seatbelts, car seats, and booster seats are among the leading causes of deadly crashes.
Distracted driving is another risky activity that claims thousands of lives every year in the U.S. Any activity that takes the driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind off the task of driving is a deadly distraction.
Mobile phones are the obvious example. But even just eating a meal on the road or turning to talk to a backseat passenger for just a few seconds is enough to lose control of the vehicle and cause a deadly collision.
In some cases, the driver does everything right, but something out of their control leads to a fatal crash. Hazardous road conditions, unsafe construction zones, missing signs and signals all impact traffic safety.
Who Is Liable for a Fatal Car Crash?
Everyone who shares the roads in and around Fort Worth, and across the state, has a duty to protect motor vehicle drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Many different parties can potentially be liable for a fatal car accident—from the person driving recklessly to the municipality in charge of maintaining the roadways.
To determine liability for your loved one’s fatal crash, your lawyer conducts a thorough investigation into how and why the accident happened. They carefully review police reports, medical records, photos, video, and witness accounts, looking for details that clarify what went wrong.
Once they determine liability, your wrongful death claim can proceed.
Rights of Survivors After Fatal Auto Accidents
A wrongful death claim is like a personal injury claim, except that it is filed on behalf of someone who passes away, by their surviving loved one. Texas law allows a surviving spouse, child, or parent to file a wrongful death claim, either individually or with other eligible individuals.
A car accident attorney in Fort Worth can discuss your situation and confirm your eligibility based on the circumstances of the accident and your relationship to the deceased.
How a Forth Worth Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Wrongful death claims not only provide monetary support for bereaved survivors, but it also helps provide closure by holding the responsible party accountable for their negligence.
But keep in mind, cases involving fatalities are understandably more complex than other personal injury claims. It’s wise to hire a Fort Worth car accident lawyer with experience successfully resolving wrongful death claims for clients seeking justice—and healing.
At Patterson Law Group, our role in your wrongful death case is to:
- Investigate the details of your loved one’s accident.
- Gather and review all evidence related to the case.
- Interview witnesses and experts who can provide key insight into the case.
- Aggressively defend against attempts to shift blame to your loved one for the accident.
- Build a compelling case that increases the likelihood of an outcome in your favor.
- Negotiate with at-fault parties to obtain a fair settlement that truly reflects the impact of a loved one’s passing.
We have seen first-hand how an untimely death can affect a family. That is why we are committed to using every legal remedy available to advocate for you and honor your loved one.
Compensation for Fatal Car Wrecks in Fort Worth
It’s not easy for survivors to pick up the pieces after losing a family member, but unfortunately there are practical concerns to consider when a loved one passes away. Financial compensation helps to provide for those left behind.
Possible damages for a wrongful death claim include loss of care, support, and companionship, physical and emotional pain and suffering, funeral costs, medical bills, and lost future earnings and inheritances, among other expenses.
In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be available.
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Texas, surviving family members typically have two years from the date the individual died from their injuries to sue for wrongful death damages in civil court. It’s important to clarify—the clock on the statute of limitations does not start once your loved one is hospitalized, but rather from the date of their passing. In certain limited circumstances, that limit may be extended.
While it may seem like there is no good time to discuss legal action after the death of a family member, delays can be detrimental to your case. Trust our team to treat your situation with skill and discretion. We manage your case at every step—so you can focus on moving forward.
Call or connect online to schedule a free case evaluation with a Fort Worth Personal injury lawyer in our Fort Worth, Arlington, or San Antonio locations.
