Common Causes of A Wrongful Death Lawsuit

When Death Allows For a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

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Wrongful death in Texas occurs when a person’s death is caused by another’s wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default. As defined by the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, these cases allow certain family members to seek justice and compensation for their loss.

There are many reasons that someone can be killed wrongfully. For instance, we have handled cases of accidental shooting, being dropped from an airplane, mistakes in medical care, and intentional acts of violence. Speaking with a trained attorney can help you determine if the circumstances surrounding the death of your loved one give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit.

If your loved one was killed in a wrongful death accident and you need help with a claim, call our Houston wrongful death attorneys today for a free consultation

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Texas

In our decades of experience, we’ve represented families in various types of wrongful death cases. Here are some of the most common causes we encounter:

1. Auto Accidents

Vehicle accidents, including car, truck, and motorcycle crashes, are a leading cause of wrongful death in Texas. These often result from:

  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Speeding
  • Reckless driving

One of our most heart-wrenching cases involved the family of a man killed when a tire from a passing truck crashed through his windshield. As the primary breadwinner, his loss left behind multiple children. Our efforts not only provided compensation for their pain and suffering but also ensured the family’s long-term financial security.

2. Commercial Truck Accidents

Due to their size and weight, accidents involving commercial trucks often result in fatal injuries. Common factors include:

  • Driver fatigue
  • Improper loading
  • Mechanical failures
  • Inadequate training

We once represented the adult children of a woman killed by a truck driver who left too little room for her to pass while crossing a bridge. The compensation we secured acknowledged the trucking company’s wrongdoing and the serious, ongoing pain and suffering experienced by her children.

3. Defective Products

Faulty products, from vehicle components to household items, can lead to tragic deaths. These cases often involve:

  • Design defects
  • Manufacturing defects
  • Inadequate warnings or instructions

In a particularly devastating case, we represented the parents of a child killed while riding in a UTV with a defective seatbelt. When the vehicle rolled over, the seatbelt unlatched, resulting in the child’s death. While no amount of money could replace their loss, the recovery helped acknowledge the life-changing suffering of losing a child.

4. Medical Malpractice

When healthcare professionals fail to provide an appropriate standard of care, the consequences can be fatal. Common forms of medical malpractice include:

  • Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
  • Surgical errors
  • Medication errors
  • Birth injuries

5. Workplace Accidents

Unsafe working conditions or negligence on job sites can lead to fatal accidents, particularly in industries like construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas. These may involve:

  • Falls from heights
  • Equipment malfunctions
  • Explosions or fires
  • Exposure to toxic substances

We once represented the wife of a man who tragically lost his life after falling from a raised platform at a job site. As the family’s breadwinner, his loss placed significant financial burdens on his surviving spouse. Our efforts secured much-needed compensation to alleviate these unexpected hardships.

Contact us online or call (281) 801-5617 for a no-cost consultation.

Your Legal Rights in a Wrongful Death Case

In Texas, specific family members have the right to file a wrongful death claim. These include:

  • Surviving spouse
  • Children (including adopted children)
  • Parents (including adoptive parents)

It’s crucial to note that Texas has a statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. Generally, you have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit, with some exceptions.

Types of Damages in Wrongful Death Cases

While no amount of money can truly compensate for your loss, Texas law allows for various types of damages in wrongful death cases:

  1. Economic damages: These include lost earning capacity, lost inheritance, and funeral expenses.
  2. Non-economic damages: These cover mental anguish, loss of companionship, and loss of support.
  3. Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful acts, these damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

Recent Wrongful Death Lawsuits and Legal Precedents

Wrongful death claims arise when negligence leads to the untimely loss of a loved one. Recent lawsuits demonstrate how legal action can uncover wrongdoing and hold negligent parties accountable, whether in medical settings, corporate environments, or transportation incidents. Examining these cases provides insight into how families seek justice through the legal system.

  • Lawsuit Against HCA Houston Healthcare: A family pursued legal action after medical negligence led to a preventable death, highlighting the importance of holding healthcare providers responsible for substandard care.
  • Lawsuit Against Multiple Defendants: This case involved multiple negligent parties, demonstrating the complexity of wrongful death claims when liability is shared across different entities.
  • Lawsuit Against Uber and Raiser: A wrongful death lawsuit was filed against Uber, alleging corporate negligence contributed to a fatal accident involving one of its drivers.

These cases illustrate how wrongful death lawsuits can uncover systemic failures and negligent practices, ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable. If you have lost a loved one due to negligence, understanding past cases can provide valuable insight into the legal process and available options for pursuing justice.

How We Can Help Your Family in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

At Ammons Law Firm, we’ve walked countless families through these tragedies over our years in practice. We understand the profound impact of losing a loved one and are committed to helping you seek justice and fair compensation.

Our approach involves:

  1. Providing compassionate support throughout the legal process
  2. Conducting thorough investigations to build a strong case
  3. Working with expert witnesses to strengthen your claim
  4. Negotiating aggressively with insurance companies
  5. Preparing for trial when necessary to secure the best possible outcome

While we know that no legal action can truly make up for your loss, we strive to hold negligent parties accountable and help provide the financial security your family needs to move forward.

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence in Texas, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and guide you through this challenging time. Remember, the wrongful death attorney you choose matters, and we’re ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice your loved one deserves.

  • “”If you have a complicated products liability matter or really ANY complex matter, Rob will devote the resources necessary to sort it out and get the best possible result for the client.””

    – Louis H., Referral Attorney

  • ““Rob fought for me like no man has fought for me. The Ammons Law Firm is a law firm that seeks out justice, righteousness for those who have suffered and I can now move forward in my life.””

    – Joe C.

  • “I can say with confidence that The Ammons Law Firm is the very best.”

    – Former Client

  • “”We had a wonderful experience working with the Ammons Law Firm. The office staff was always courteous and prompt in responding. Rob’s expertise in our case was quickly evident and our trust in him …”

    – Anne P.

  • “”The Ammons law firm has a great number of wonderful and hardworking lawyers. They did an amazing job with my case.””

    – Jose Angel M.

  • “”The Ammons law firm has a great number of wonderful and hardworking lawyers. They did an amazing job with my case.””

    – Kenny N.

Why Choose Us?

Our Firm Will Fight for Your Right to Compensation
  • We Wrote the Book on Tire Defect Litigation

    Attorney Rob Ammons has not only handled some of the most complex tire defect cases but also wrote the book on how to properly litigate these types of cases.

  • Team Approach to Handling Each & Every Case

    Unlike smaller law firms, we have the resources necessary to tackle even the most complex cases. To ensure our clients get the best possible results, we hire industry experts and other professionals to advise on any complex legal issues.

  • Over a Billion Dollars Recovered for Our Clients

    Our seasoned legal professionals have handled some of the largest personal injury claims nationwide and have a strong track record of favorable outcomes.

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