Who Can Sue for Wrongful Death? Midland Wrongful Death Attorneys Can Help
Wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits filed by surviving family members against the party or parties responsible for the untimely death of another person. If you’ve lost a loved one in Midland because of another person’s negligence, you may be considering filing a wrongful death claim. But do you know who can sue for wrongful death? Midland wrongful death attorneys can help answer this question, as well as other common questions about these types of claims.
Which Relatives Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?In Texas, wrongful death claims can be filed by the following relatives:
- The parents of the deceased
- The children of the deceased
- The surviving spouse of the deceased
It’s important to note that family members can file their claim either individually or jointly – either is acceptable in Texas.
What About the Siblings or Grandparents? Can they File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?Unfortunately, no. Although some states allow siblings or grandparents to sue for wrongful death, Texas does not.
Can Adopted Children File a Claim Following the Death of an Adoptive Parent?Yes, as long as they were fully and legally adopted. Adopted children cannot, however, file a claim for their biological parents.
Can Anyone Else File a Wrongful Death Claim Besides Parents, Children, and Spouses of the Deceased?An executor can file a claim on behalf of the deceased’s estate if no eligible family members file a wrongful death claim within three months of the death. Despite this, eligible family members have the right to block the estate from doing so.
What Types of Damages are Awarded in Wrongful Death Cases?Damages in these types of cases can include:
- Funeral / burial costs
- Medical bills for the deceased
- Loss of the income provided by the deceased
- Loss of companionship
- Pain and suffering
In Texas, damages are divided among surviving relatives of the deceased in proportion to the injury they suffered, and these proportions are usually determined by the court. A lawyer can provide more information about your particular circumstance during your initial meetings.
What are Examples of Wrongful Death Cases? In What Circumstances Should I File a Wrongful Death Claim?There are many different types of wrongful death cases, but some examples include manslaughter, drunk or distracted driving, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, murder, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, or nursing home neglect.
How Should the Relatives of the Deceased Choose a Wrongful Death Lawyer Serving Midland?Anyone who has lost a relative and is thinking about filing a wrongful death lawsuit needs to choose an attorney who specializes in these types of cases, which are frequently complex and require the most experienced personal injury lawyers. Here at Carabin Shaw, our Midland personal injury lawyers have been serving Texans for more than two decades and have handled hundreds of wrongful death cases.
If you’re asking yourself, “How can I find the best wrongful death lawyers near me?” then you should know our Midland wrongful death attorneys at Carabin Shaw have 200 years of combined legal experience. We’ve recovered $500 million for our clients in damages, and we know how to secure you the maximum amount of financial compensation for your wrongful death lawsuit in Texas.
Our compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys serving Midland want to help you get justice for your loved one and damages for your losses. To find out what we can do for your wrongful death claim in Midland, call us today at 432-620-0544 to receive a free consultation with a qualified lawyer. Find out what we can do for your family – you don’t have to do this alone.