St. George Wrongful Death Attorney
The unexpected loss of a loved one is always a terrible tragedy. If you believe someone else’s carelessness caused your loved one’s death, however, it can be even more difficult to accept. On top of the grief you are feeling, you may also face financial hardship, especially after the loss of the breadwinner in your family.
For assistance with the wrongful death legal process, please contact a St. George wrongful death attorney at Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers. We will work relentlessly to hold someone accountable for your loved one’s passing.
Do You Need a Wrongful Death Attorney in St. George?
It is imperative to contact a wrongful death lawyer in St. George after losing a member of your family in a fatal accident. Sadly, insurance corporations care more about saving money than their claimants – even when someone has lost a life. An insurance company may try many tactics to convince you to settle for less than your case is worth. A lawyer can help you fight for the monetary recovery your family deserves.
More importantly, a wrongful death attorney from Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers can help you mentally and emotionally during this difficult time by giving you trusted advice and answering your legal questions. A lawyer will stand by your family and act as an advocate when going up against an insurance company or any other adversary. You can have the peace of mind to focus on grieving and healing while a lawyer takes care of complicated legal processes on your behalf, such as gathering evidence for your case and hiring qualified experts.
Do You Have a Wrongful Death Case?
Many fatal accidents are preventable. They stem from negligence: carelessness that causes injury or harm to others. If someone else’s negligence caused your loved one’s fatal injury, your family may be entitled to financial compensation.
Although no amount of money will ever make up for losing someone, a settlement can help your family move forward with greater financial stability. Filing a case and holding someone accountable can also bring your loved one justice. The three key elements needed to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Utah are:
- The defendant(s) owed your loved one a duty of care, meaning he or she had an obligation to act in a reasonable manner toward the deceased person.
- The defendant breached his or her duty of care. The defendant’s actions or behaviors fell short of his or her legal obligation of care.
- The defendant’s breach of duty was the proximate cause of your loved one’s fatal injury. There must be a provable connection between the two.
You do not have to prove intent to harm or malicious wrongdoing to have grounds for a wrongful death claim in Utah. Even if the defendant did not intend to take your loved one’s life, he or she could be civilly liable for the fatal accident due to negligence, if this caused the victim’s critical injury.
Wrongful Death FAQs in Utah
- Q: Who is entitled to wrongful death benefits in Utah?
A: In Utah, the heirs who can file a wrongful death claim are the surviving spouse, adult children, parents, stepchildren and other blood relatives who were financially dependent on the deceased person.
- Q: Is there a deadline on the right to file a wrongful death claim?
A: Yes. In Utah, a wrongful death claim must be filed within two years of the date of the deceased person’s death. Otherwise, the courts may dismiss the case. Speak with a wrongful death lawyer in St. George as soon as possible following the wrongful death of a loved one.
- Q: How is wrongful death compensation calculated?
A: The damages available in a wrongful death case include funeral and burial costs, medical expenses, lost wages and inheritance, and pain and suffering. Damages are calculated based on the specific losses of the deceased person and surviving family members.
Request a Free Case Review Today From a St. George Wrongful Death Lawyer
For more information about bringing a wrongful death lawsuit in Utah – and for legal advice your family can trust – contact the St. George injury attorneys at Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers to request a free consultation in St. George. Call (702) 384-1414 or contact us online anytime.