Losing a loved one is never easy, but it’s especially painful when you don’t even get the chance to say goodbye. This is the tragic reality that more than 35,000 families face every year, after one of their own dies in a motor-vehicle collision.
Large truck crashes are responsible for a significant number of these fatal accidents. Passenger vehicles are simply no match for big rigs, making their occupants incredibly vulnerable in the event of a wreck.
If your loved one died in a large truck crash, your family may be able to hold the liable party accountable. While this won’t bring the deceased back, it could yield the funds needed to maintain your standard of living in the aftermath.
In order to recover a payout, though, you’re going to have to put together a strong wrongful death claim. This generally starts by taking the following steps:
1. Designate a Personal Representative
In Texas, a wrongful death claim can be brought by the deceased’s surviving spouse, parents, or children. When there are multiple beneficiaries, they can simplify the proceedings by selecting a single individual to represent all of them. This party will be responsible for navigating the claims process; however, they won’t have to do so alone if they hire a truck accident attorney, which brings us to the next step.
2. Enlist Legal Help
The financial challenges that arise after an unexpected death in the family tend to be significant. With so much at stake, you’re going to want to give your claim the best chance of success, and that means hiring a truck accident lawyer.
Your attorney will:
- Investigate the circumstances surrounding the death;
- Compile evidence of fault;
- Handle all correspondence with the opposing party;
- Estimate a reasonable figure for all the damages your family has incurred;
- Negotiate for a settlement; and
- File a formal lawsuit if the insurance adjuster proves uncooperative.
They will also ensure you meet all filing deadlines, while keeping you from making critical mistakes along the way.
3. Preserve Evidence of Damages
To pursue the maximum payout possible, you’re going to have to present proof of the damages you’re seeking. As such, it’s imperative to save all relevant invoices, receipts, tax returns, and other associated documentation.
In Texas, wrongful death claimants may seek compensation for:
- Lost income and benefits;
- Loss of anticipated inheritances;
- Loss of household services;
- Lost support, advice, and counsel;
- Loss of love, companionship, society, and comfort; and
- Mental pain and anguish suffered by the surviving family members.
4. Stay off Social Media
While taking these steps, it’s wise to stay off social media. The insurance adjuster is going to look for reasons to challenge your credibility, and that might lead them to monitoring your online activity.
Discuss Your Case with a Truck Accident Attorney in Houston
Chelsie King Garza, P.C. is proud to help families pick up the pieces in the wake of tragedy. If your loved one died in a large truck crash, she’ll fight tirelessly on behalf of your family in pursuit of the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Houston, call 713-893-8808 or fill out her Online Contact Form.
