Wrongful Death Attorney Mesa AZ
If you’ve lost a family member in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you obviously have a great deal on your mind. Included in the process of dealing with a fatal automobile accident is wondering what legal rights you do have after losing a family member in this manner. You need to have a basic understanding of wrongful death claims in the state of Arizona.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
In basic terms, a wrongful death is the death of an individual caused by the negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct of someone else. In the aftermath of this type of death, certain family members may be able to pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit for compensation.
Who can Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim in Arizona?
Arizona law sets forth who may pursue a wrongful death case in Arizona. These parties include the surviving spouse, child, or parent of the deceased person. In addition, the personal representative of a deceased person’s estate may also be in a position to pursue a wrongful death case.
Statute of Limitations in an Arizona Wrongful Death Case
Arizona maintains a law called the statute of limitations. Pursuant to this law, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of the family member’s death. The failure to meet this deadline will result in a family member forever being precluded from pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit.
Compensation in a Wrongful Death Case
Compensation potentially available in a wrongful death case depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding the accident together with the relationship between the deceased individual and the family member seeking legal relief. Understanding these parameters, the types of losses a skilled, experience Arizona wrongful death lawyer typically seeks on behalf of a client include:
- final medical bills and expenses
- funeral and internment costs
- mental anguish and emotional distress
- lost companionship
- lost income or financial support
If the conduct of the party that caused the accident in the first instance is found to be particularly reckless or egregious in a wrongful death lawsuit, a family member may be entitled to what are known as punitive or exemplary damages. Punitive damages represent additional compensation in a wrongful death case. In addition, punitive damages are designed to punish the party that caused the accident for his or her reckless or egregious conduct.
Our Personal Injury lawyers are the best in the business in helping people understand their options with wrongful death cases. Call us today for a consultation
