Losing a loved one can be devastating regardless of the circumstances or the cause of his or her death. Although many people die from natural causes, in some situations, however, a person’s death could have been prevented. This can make it especially difficult to accept, but there are options for the family left behind. Wrongful death lawsuits can be filed for deaths that were a result of negligent or reckless actions by another party. These types of claims can provide justice for your family member’s death and provide compensation for your loss. Although nothing can bring back your relative, recovering damages can alleviate the stress and uncertainty of what the future holds.
Types of Fatal Accidents
There are many ways that individuals can suffer injuries, and they can range from minor to serious to fatal depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Some of the most severe kinds of accidents include:
- Vehicle collision
- Slip and fall
- Motorcycle crash
- Pedestrian accident
- Medical Negligence
- Nursing home abuse or neglect
Compensating for Your Loss
Wrongful death claims are filed as a means of pursuing compensation for the losses the family has endured and those that they may suffer in the future. As you grieve the death of your loved one, you may also start to wonder how you will be able to afford medical bills from the care of the deceased. In addition, you may struggle to pay monthly utility bills if the victim contributed to your household income or household. For example, the victim may have been transported to the hospital in an ambulance, and he or she had x-rays or scans to determine the extent of the injuries. Your loved one may also have had a lengthy stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) before he or she passed away. All of these costs add up and can be overwhelming, especially if the patient did not have insurance.
In general Tennessee wrongful death claims can offer coverage for the following:
- Medical bills
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of consortium/companionship
- The deceased’s pain and suffering
- The survivor’s mental anguish
It is important to note that a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within one year of the date of the victim’s death. In addition, Tennessee law stipulates that it can only be brought by any of the following individuals:
- The decedent’s spouse
- The decedent’s child or next of kin (if no spouse)
- The decedent’s parent
- The decedent’s personal representative
Contact a Tennessee Wrongful Death Attorney
If you are reeling from the loss of your beloved relative, it is imperative that you consult a knowledgeable Chattanooga wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering or other damages on behalf of your loved one. The skilled legal team of Warren & Griffin, P.C. understands the delicate nature of these types of personal injury cases. We will explain your options and help you navigate the proceedings to achieve the best possible outcome so you can move on with your life. To arrange a private consultation, call our office today at 423-265-4878.