Teller County Wrongful Death Lawyers
Legal Action After a Fatal Accident
The loss of someone you love is an unthinkable tragedy, but when the death is unexpected, it can leave you with questions regarding the fatal incident and add feelings of confusion to the overwhelming feelings of grief and sadness you and your family may be coping with. When the negligence of another person, company, or organization in Teller County leads to an injury, Colorado law gives the injured person the right to seek compensation in court, and when an injury proves fatal, the law gives similar rights to the family members left behind. These cases are known as "wrongful death" cases, and it can allow your family to pursue compensation from any at-fault parties while also holding them responsible for the irreparable harm caused.
A wrongful death occurs when an accident causes fatal injuries. A severe auto accident may cause a wrongful death, and so can a bicycle, pedestrian, or motorcycle accident. On-the-job accidents also claim lives each year. Although many wrongful deaths involve unintentional accidents, a wrongful death claim can also be based on an intentional act, like a violent assault that claims a life.
When a wrongful death occurs, the deceased person's spouse, children, or parents may be able to bring a claim against the party whose negligence caused the death. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., our dedicated Teller County personal injury lawyers can help you determine whether you have a wrongful death claim and how best to pursue it. To see how we can help you during this difficult time, call (719) 475-2555.
Deadlines for Colorado Wrongful Death Claims
In most cases, the survivors of a person lost in a wrongful death have two years to bring their case to a Colorado court, which is known as a statute of limitations. If you don't file your wrongful death claim within two years, you may be barred from bringing it at all. Therefore, you should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible in order to discuss exactly when your deadline has passed and how best to protect your rights and those of your family.
Benefits of Pursuing a Wrongful Death Claim
No amount of money can ease the pain of losing a loved one. However, compensation from a wrongful death claim - known as "damages" - can lift many financial burdens, giving a family the security and space it needs to heal and honor the memory of a loved one. Damages that are available in many Colorado wrongful death claims include:
- Reimbursement for medical bills, funeral expenses, and burial costs;
- Amounts to cover the wages a deceased person would have earned;
- Payments for loss of support and benefits, such as pension savings or life insurance;
- Payments for loss of love, comfort, care, companionship, and/or assistance the lost person would otherwise have provided family members; and
- Amounts for punitive damages, if the death was the result of gross negligence.
One goal family members have for one another is to provide the support the family needs to pay the bills, save for big goals like retirement or college, and to thrive. When a loved one's life ends suddenly, these goals can be in jeopardy. A wrongful death claim can help your family get back on track, so your future looks bright.
Receiving the Support You and Your Family Need
Losing someone you love unexpectedly can be one of the most difficult things a person or family will experience, and coping with the loss in the days and weeks following the accident should absolutely be your main concern. However, considering filing a wrongful death claim may be beneficial and can give you and your family the financial assistance you need to begin to try and rebuild your lives. If you have questions or aren't sure whether a wrongful death claim is right for your family, please don't hesitate to contact an experienced Teller County wrongful death lawyer at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., for a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll help you understand your legal rights and options, so you can make an informed choice for your family. Contact us today to learn more by calling (719) 475-2555.
