Nothing is as heartbreaking as losing a loved one to a preventable death. When a family member dies because of someone’s negligence, the grief can be profound. Despite your sadness and pain, you can hold the responsible parties accountable.
At Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we have experience helping people file wrongful death actions after losing a loved one. Our negligent death attorneys are skilled at securing substantial recoveries in Austin wrongful death settlements that protect the future of the surviving family members.
In Austin, wrongful death compensation amounts depend on many factors, but can range from tens of thousands to several million. These settlements can cover damages such as:
If they suffered pain and discomfort before death, surviving family members, such as a spouse, domestic partner, adult children, wards, or parents may also seek further damages. When possible, a court may award punitive damages against the at-fault party. These can significantly increase the final compensation amount.
Whether there is a cap on damages depends on the cause of death and the type of damages. Economic damages, which have a monetary value, have no limit. In Austin, compensation for economic damages from a preventable death is at the court’s discretion.
Punitive damages, which the court awards to punish the offender for egregious actions or gross negligence, also have no limit. The court can award any amount it deems reasonable for the severity of the liable party’s actions.
Conversely, there is a cap on non-economic damages—intangible losses with subjective value—if the deceased’s death was due to medical malpractice. According to state law, that amount is $2 million.
Some cases settle in a few weeks, while others take years. The duration depends on the complexity of the litigation and the at-fault party’s willingness to settle. When filing a wrongful death claim in Austin, it is important to understand the expected timeline for the settlement’s resolution.
Available insurance coverage limits also influence how quickly a case settles. Claimants can expect to receive their settlements within one to six weeks of the court’s final verdict and approval of compensation. It is vital to note that each case is unique, and timelines are specific to the case.
Although your family member’s passing was unfortunate, and money cannot bring them back, a wrongful death settlement could help you pay all outstanding bills, regain financial stability, and secure your future.
Our experienced lawyers at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys work hard to obtain substantial Austin wrongful death settlements for surviving family members. We have provided legal support, guidance, and representation to residents of Austin and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. Call now and let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.
(713) 221-6800 