Ask a Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer: Can I File a Personal Injury Claim for a Deceased Family Member?

Losing a loved one is a devastating experience, and it can be even more overwhelming when the death is the result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. During such difficult times, it’s important to understand your rights and options. One question that often arises is whether you can file a personal injury claim on behalf of a deceased family member.

Losing a loved one is a challenging and emotional experience, and pursuing a wrongful death claim can be complex. Having the support and guidance of a knowledgeable Kansas City wrongful death attorney can help you navigate the legal process and seek the justice and compensation you deserve while allowing you to focus on grieving and healing.

Call Wendt Law today 816-542-6734.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims

A personal injury claim is a legal action taken by an individual who has been injured or killed due to the negligence or intentional act of another person or entity. These claims seek to obtain compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages suffered as a result of the incident.

When it comes to personal injury claims, it is essential to understand the definition and elements involved. In a personal injury claim, the injured party, known as the plaintiff, must demonstrate that the defendant owed them a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused their injuries or death. This can be accomplished by proving that the defendant’s actions or omissions fell below the standard of care expected in the circumstances, resulting in harm.

Definition of a Personal Injury Claim

A personal injury claim is a legal recourse available to individuals who have suffered harm due to the negligent or intentional acts of others. It provides a means for the injured person or party to seek compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages they have endured.

When pursuing a personal injury claim, the plaintiff must establish several key elements including:

Defendant owed them a duty of care: This duty of care is a legal obligation that requires individuals or entities to act in a manner that does not cause harm to others.
Defendant breached their duty of care: This means that the defendant failed to meet the standard of care expected in the circumstances. Whether it was a negligent act or an intentional action, the breach of duty is a crucial element in establishing a personal injury claim.
Prove that the defendant’s breach of duty caused their injuries or death: This causation element links the defendant’s actions or omissions to the harm suffered by the plaintiff. It requires a clear connection between the defendant’s conduct and the resulting damages.

Common Types of Personal Injury Claims

Personal injury claims can arise from various situations, each with its own unique considerations. Understanding the common types of personal injury claims can help individuals navigate the legal process more effectively. The common types of personal injury claims include:

Car accidents: Whether it’s a rear-end collision, a drunk driving incident, or a hit-and-run accident, these cases often involve complex legal and insurance issues.
Slip and fall accidents: These incidents occur when individuals suffer injuries due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property. Whether it’s a wet floor, a broken staircase, or inadequate lighting, property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment for visitors.
Medical malpractice claims: These arise when healthcare professionals fail to provide an acceptable standard of care, resulting in harm to patients. From misdiagnosis and surgical errors to medication mistakes and birth injuries, medical malpractice cases require expert testimony and extensive evidence to establish negligence.
Workplace accidents: Employees who suffer injuries on the job may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. These claims often involve navigating workers’ compensation laws and potential third-party liability.
Product liability case: Whether it’s a faulty car part, a defective medical device, or a contaminated food product, individuals harmed by such products can pursue legal action against the responsible parties.

Regardless of the type of a personal injury lawsuit or claim, the underlying principle of negligence applies. It is crucial for individuals to understand their rights and seek legal advice to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

The Concept of Wrongful Death

Wrongful death occurs when a person dies as a result of another party’s negligence, intentional act, or strict liability. It is a devastating event that can leave the surviving family members in a state of grief and despair. The legal system recognizes the immense loss suffered by the family and allows them to seek justice through a wrongful death claim.

A wrongful death claim is a specific type of personal injury claim filed on behalf of the deceased person’s estate or of the deceased person by their surviving family members. It aims to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions or omissions that led to the tragic loss of life.

What Constitutes a Wrongful Death?

To establish a wrongful death claim, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s actions or omissions directly caused the death of their loved one. This can include a wide range of situations, each with its own set of complexities and legal considerations.

One common scenario that can result in a wrongful death claim is fatal car accidents caused by drunk driving. When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, they put themselves and others at risk. If their negligence leads to a fatal car accident afterwards, the surviving family members have the right to seek compensation for their loss.

Medical malpractice is another frequent cause of wrongful death claims. When healthcare professionals fail to provide the standard of care expected in their field, it can have devastating consequences. If a patient dies as a result of medical negligence, their family can pursue a wrongful death claim to hold the responsible parties accountable.

In some cases, a defective product can cause fatal injuries. Whether it’s a faulty car part, a defective medical device, or a hazardous consumer product, the manufacturer or distributor may be held liable for the wrongful death damages that it caused. Wrongful death claims in product liability cases aim to protect consumers and ensure that companies prioritize safety over profits.

The Difference Between Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims

While personal injury claims and wrongful death claims have similarities, there are key differences that set them apart. In a personal injury claim, the injured party seeks compensation for their own injuries and damages. They may be entitled to reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

On the other hand, a wrongful death claim focuses on the surviving family members’ loss and the damages they have suffered as a result. The aim is to provide financial support to the family members who have been left behind, as they may face emotional, financial, and practical challenges following the death of their loved one.

Wrongful death claims can seek compensation for various losses, including funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and the pain and suffering endured by the deceased before their death. The purpose is not to put a monetary value on a person’s life, but rather to recover financial compensation to alleviate the financial burdens that the family may face in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Wrongful death claims are a legal recourse available to the surviving family members when their loved one’s death is caused by the negligence, intentional act, or strict liability of another party. These claims aim to provide support, financial compensation, and justice to those left behind, acknowledging the profound impact of the loss and holding the responsible parties accountable.

Who Can File a Personal Injury Claim for a Deceased Family Member in Kansas City?

The eligibility to file a personal injury claim for a deceased family member varies depending on the jurisdiction and the relationship between the claimant and the deceased. Generally, the following individuals may be eligible:

Immediate Family Members

Immediate family members, such as spouses, parents, and children, are usually first in line to file a personal injury claim for a deceased family member. These individuals have a strong legal standing and are typically granted priority.

Life Partners, Financial Dependents, and Putative Spouses

Depending on the jurisdiction, life partners, financial dependents, and putative spouses may also have the right to file a personal injury claim. These individuals must establish their financial or emotional dependency on the deceased.

Distant Family Members

In certain cases, distant family members, such as siblings or grandparents, may be permitted to file a personal injury claim if they can demonstrate a significant loss resulting from the death.

The Process of Filing a Personal Injury Claim for a Deceased Family Member

The process of filing a personal injury claim for a deceased family member can be complex and time-consuming. It typically involves the following steps:

Gathering Necessary Documentation

Collecting evidence such as medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and photographs is crucial in presenting a strong case. Documentation supporting the connection between the defendant’s actions and the death is essential.

Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Kansas City

Seeking the guidance of an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer is highly recommended when filing a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death lawyer can provide valuable advice, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

Filing the Claim in Court

Once all the necessary documentation is gathered and reviewed by your wrongful death lawyer, they will file the personal injury claim on behalf of your deceased family member. The claim will outline the legal basis for seeking compensation and specify the damages suffered.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Filing a personal injury claim for a deceased family member may present some challenges. It is important to be prepared and understand how to overcome them:

Proving Negligence or Fault

One of the main challenges is establishing the defendant’s negligence or fault in causing the wrongful death cases themselves. This often requires a thorough investigation supported by expert testimonies, accident reconstructions, or other forms of evidence.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies may try to minimize the compensation or deny the claim altogether. It is essential to have solid legal representation who can negotiate with insurance adjusters and protect your rights throughout the process.

Statute of Limitations

Each jurisdiction imposes a statute of limitations, which is the time limit within which a claim must be filed. It is essential to be aware of these timeframes and ensure that your claim is filed in a timely manner to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.

Speak to a Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

Pursuing a personal injury case or wrongful death case for a deceased family member can be a complex and emotional process. Understanding the legal framework, requirements, and potential challenges involved is crucial in pursuing a successful wrongful death lawsuit. Seeking the guidance of an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer that specializes in wrongful death can provide the knowledge and support needed to navigate this difficult situation and obtain the compensation your loved one deserves.

Contact Wendt Law by calling 816-542-6734 to speak with a Kansas City wrongful death attorney today.