Fatal Car Accidents

Auto accidents are the leading cause of serious injuries in San Antonio and the rest of Texas. In addition to causing very severe injuries, auto accidents frequently result in death. We understand that losing a loved one in an auto accident is a very traumatic experience. While it’s never easy to lose someone you love, the unexpected nature of auto accidents can make this loss even more overwhelming.

Dealing With the Aftermath of Fatal Car Accidents

Not only can a fatal car accident cause immense grief for that individual’s loved ones, but the sudden nature of this event can leave a family with a lot of unanswered questions. For example, if the person who passes away in this kind of accident was the primary income provider for a spouse and children, those dependents may be completely unsure of what they’re going to do as they try to move forward.

Even though legal matters aren’t the first thoughts that come to someone’s mind during this challenging time, the loved ones of a fatal auto accident victim do have rights. Ensuring those rights are protected can be done by contacting a San Antonio injury lawyer. Speaking with an attorney can give a victim’s family an understanding of what remedies may be available to help ease the financial and emotional burden created by this tragic event.

One of the most common questions people have about wrongful death claims is if they’re linked to criminal action. The answer to that question is usually no. In fact, it can still be possible for the family of a fatal car accident victim to pursue civil action in the form of a wrongful death claim even if a driver has been cleared of all criminal charges. Plenty of families opt to pursue this type of claim in the hopes that a driver will be held responsible for their negligent actions.

The Basics of the Wrongful Death Claim Process

In the case of a wrongful death claim that’s filed after a fatal auto accident, the claim will usually be targeted at the driver who was responsible for the accident. Depending on the specifics of the case, a claim may seek fair compensation for pain and suffering, funeral expenses, medical expenses, and lost wages.

When this type of claim is filed, it’s not uncommon for the insurance company that’s involved to attempt to settle the claim for the lowest amount possible. Keeping a victim’s loved ones from being pressured into taking less than they rightfully deserve is one of the key reasons why it’s important to have a reputable San Antonio law firm involved in this process.

Speak With a Caring and Understanding San Antonio Attorney

At the Law Offices of Ronald A. Ramos, we understand the shock and grief that go along with losing a loved one in a fatal car accident. If you want to learn more about what rights you have in regards to a potential legal claim, you can count on our law firm to treat you with the respect you deserve. Call us today for a confidential, free consultation.

Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents in San Antonio

Fatal accidents in San Antonio and throughout Texas are frequently caused by driver negligence. Leading causes include excessive speed, which reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact. distracted driving, particularly texting while driving, continues to be a major factor in deadly collisions. drunk driving remains one of the most preventable causes of fatal accidents on Texas roads. Other common causes include reckless driving and aggressive behavior, failure to yield the right of way, fatigued or drowsy driving especially among commercial vehicle operators, and dangerous road conditions caused by poor maintenance or inadequate design.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

Under the Texas Wrongful Death Act, certain family members have the legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit when a loved one is killed due to another party’s negligence. The surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased may each bring a wrongful death claim. These claims must generally be filed within two years of the date of death. In addition to a wrongful death action, the estate of the deceased may file a separate survival action to recover damages that the deceased person would have been entitled to had they survived.

Compensation Available in Fatal Accident Cases

Families who have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident may be entitled to recover several types of damages. Economic damages include funeral and burial expenses, loss of the deceased’s expected income and financial support, loss of benefits such as health insurance and retirement contributions, and medical expenses incurred before death. Non-economic damages include mental anguish and emotional pain experienced by surviving family members, loss of companionship, comfort, and consortium, loss of parental guidance for minor children, and loss of the care and support the deceased provided. In cases involving grossly negligent or reckless conduct, punitive damages may also be available to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

Investigating a Fatal Car Accident

Building a strong wrongful death case requires a thorough and immediate investigation. Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts, review police reports and toxicology results, obtain surveillance and dashcam footage, interview witnesses, and analyze vehicle data recorders to establish exactly how the accident occurred and who was responsible. Preserving this evidence quickly is critical, as physical evidence can deteriorate and witness memories fade over time.

Contact Our San Antonio Fatal Accident Attorneys

Losing a family member in a car accident is one of the most devastating experiences anyone can face. While no amount of compensation can replace your loved one, holding the responsible party accountable can provide financial security for your family and help prevent similar tragedies. At the Law Offices of Ronald A. Ramos, P.C., we handle fatal accident and wrongful death cases with the compassion and dedication your family deserves. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.