Truck accidents involving 18-wheelers and semi-trucks are some of the most devastating and catastrophic road accidents imaginable. The optimist in all of us prefers to believe that, while the resulting injuries are usually severe, the victims will somehow walk away and recover well enough to lead a normal life. However, the reality is often much different. In many cases, truck accidents result in fatalities, leaving family members grieving, searching for answers, and wondering what recourse they have to seek justice for their loved one.
They may even wonder aloud, “Can I file a claim if a family member died in a truck accident?” If your loved one died as a result of a truck accident caused by someone else’s misconduct or negligence, then yes, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim.
Who Is Eligible To Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim After a Truck Accident Fatality?
Unfortunately, truck accidents happen more often than you think. In 2022 alone, 5,837 large trucks were involved in a fatal crash in the United States. When this happens, a wrongful death claim is almost always filed. This claim is a form of personal injury legal action filed on behalf of the deceased victim. The goal is to hold the responsible party accountable for the death of your loved one. In doing so, a successful wrongful death claim can protect surviving family members by allowing them to recover damages from the accident—even if they weren’t directly involved in the accident.
We advise you to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney about your unique situation, the facts of the truck accident, and the claim you hope to file against the negligent party.
That said, the following parties can generally bring wrongful death actions:
- Surviving spouse of the deceased victim
- The children of the deceased victim
- The parents of the deceased victim
In some situations, the personal representative of the deceased victim’s estate may also legally be able to pursue a claim.
What Type of Damages Can We Pursue?
Every wrongful death claim is unique, but damages usually can include, but aren’t limited to, the following:
- Medical bills incurred before the victim passed away
- Physical pain and suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Emotional pain and suffering the family endures
- Loss of earnings previously provided by the deceased victim
At Keys Law Offices, we put our clients first in everything we do—including the families they leave behind. We will work tirelessly to investigate your case, identify all responsible parties, and hold them accountable for your loved one’s passing. We will also work with accident reconstruction specialists and other experts to build a strong case that supports your compensation claim.
You deserve compassionate and knowledgeable legal advice, and we are here to help.
Call Keys Law Offices Today!!
Large truck accidents can occur for various reasons, including fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, inadequate training, and drug and alcohol use. Sometimes, the truck company can be liable for the accident if it fails to maintain or inspect the truck properly or violates federal or state regulations. At Keys Law Offices, we are dedicated to representing victims of truck accidents and their families, including those involving semi-trucks.
We understand the complex legal and regulatory issues involved in truck accident cases, and we know how to investigate and litigate these cases to ensure that our clients get the compensation they deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Our staff is always available. Call us today!