3 Mistakes To Avoid When Filing A Wrongful Death Claim

On Behalf of | May 8, 2023 | Motor vehicle crashes |

Losing a loved one is painful, but losing them due to another person’s negligence can make the process even more difficult. If this is your case, you should consider filing a wrongful death claim to fight for their rights. However, you should be well informed to make the right moves.

The following are three mistakes to avoid when doing this. 

Disputes with family

It helps when a family is on the same page because they can cooperate throughout the case. This may not be the time to fight. Someone who can provide crucial information may not be willing to talk, which can significantly affect the claim. Thus, it will be best to update your family members and appreciate their opinions.

Talking to the insurance company

The other party’s insurance company will contact you to discuss the case. They may ask questions to get more information, but all they may be doing is looking for a statement they can use to reduce payout or deny responsibility. Therefore, you should avoid talking to them, particularly without legal help.

Accepting the first offer

The first offer an insurer suggests is, in most cases, unfair. You should not accept a settlement too early. Take time to understand the case in-depth. For instance, if your loved one has dependents, assess how they will be taken care of. 

Other factors to examine are medical, funeral and burial costs, the wages and benefits they could have reasonably received throughout their life and loss of care and companionship. With this information, you can determine just compensation.

Compensation won’t replace your loved one, but it can help you and your family move forward.