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Greetings to all our readers. If you’re here, then you or someone you know has suffered a devastating loss from a fatal car accident in Lakewood. Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences life can throw our way, especially when it’s an untimely death resulting from someone else’s negligence. However, that’s not where your journey ends. In fact, it’s just beginning. You have a right to seek justice and compensation for the wrongful death of your loved one, and that’s where a Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer comes in. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about hiring a lawyer to help you navigate the legalities of your case, secure compensation, and find closure.
Introduction
What is a Fatal Car Accident?
A fatal car accident is one that results in the death of one or more individuals. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, 38,800 people were killed in car crashes in the United States, and thousands more were injured. In Lakewood alone, over 20 fatal car accidents occur annually, leaving families and friends devastated. These accidents can occur due to various factors, including speeding, drunk driving, distracted driving, and poor road conditions.
Why Hire a Lakewood Fatal Car Accident Lawyer?
If your loved one dies in a car accident, you’ll need to decide whether or not to pursue a wrongful death claim. While nothing can bring back your loved one, a successful wrongful death claim can provide you with some sense of closure and financial compensation to cover expenses such as funeral costs, medical bills, and lost income. A Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your claim.
What Can a Lakewood Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Do for You?
A Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer can help you in several ways:
Services |
Explanation |
---|---|
Investigate the accident |
Your lawyer will gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build your case. |
Value the claim |
Your lawyer will calculate the total compensation you’re entitled to, considering factors such as loss of income, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. |
Negotiate with insurance companies |
Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement. |
File a wrongful death lawsuit |
If necessary, your lawyer will file a wrongful death lawsuit to hold the responsible party accountable and secure maximum compensation for you. |
How to Choose the Right Lakewood Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some things to consider when selecting a lawyer:
The Advantages of Hiring a Lakewood Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
Hiring a Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer comes with many advantages, including:
The Disadvantages of Hiring a Lakewood Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
While hiring a Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer can be beneficial, it also comes with some downsides:
FAQs
1. What is a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal action taken against someone whose negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions resulted in the death of another person.
2. Who can file a wrongful death claim?
Typically, a surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, other relatives or dependents may also be able to file a claim.
3. What kind of compensation can I receive in a wrongful death claim?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, funeral expenses, lost wages, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering.
4. How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Lakewood?
In Colorado, you have two years from the date of the death to file a wrongful death claim.
5. What if the person responsible for the accident died in the crash?
You may still be able to file a wrongful death claim against the person’s estate.
6. What if I can’t afford to hire a lawyer?
Many Lakewood fatal car accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means you won’t have to pay anything upfront. Instead, your lawyer will take a percentage of your settlement as their fee.
7. What happens if I don’t win my case?
If you don’t win your case, you won’t owe your lawyer any fees. However, you may still be responsible for court fees and other expenses.
8. What if the insurance company offers me a settlement?
You should consult with a Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements that don’t reflect the true value of your claim.
9. Can I still file a wrongful death claim if my loved one was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, you may still be able to file a claim, but the amount of compensation you receive may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to your loved one.
10. Can I file a wrongful death claim if the driver who caused the accident was not charged with a crime?
Yes, you can still file a wrongful death claim even if the driver wasn’t charged with a crime. A criminal conviction isn’t necessary to prove negligence in a civil lawsuit.
11. What if the other driver didn’t have insurance?
If the other driver didn’t have insurance, you may still be able to file a claim under your own insurance policy’s uninsured motorist coverage.
12. What if my loved one died from their injuries weeks or months after the accident?
You may still be able to file a claim, even if your loved one didn’t die immediately. In Colorado, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims begins on the date of death, not the date of the accident.
13. How long does a wrongful death claim take to settle?
Each case is unique, so it’s hard to say exactly how long your case will take to settle. However, most cases settle within a year or two.
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of our comprehensive guide on Lakewood fatal car accident lawyers. Losing a loved one is never easy, but we hope this article has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision on how to proceed with your case. Remember, you have a right to seek justice and compensation for your loss, and a Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer can help you do just that. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help and start your journey towards closure today.
We’re Here to Help You!
If you’re still unsure about how to proceed with your case or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experienced Lakewood fatal car accident lawyers is ready to help you navigate the legal system and secure maximum compensation for your loss.
Closing Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Every case is unique, and the laws governing wrongful death claims vary by state. Please consult with a licensed Lakewood fatal car accident lawyer to discuss the specifics of your case.