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Losing someone you love because of another person’s negligence is one of the hardest things anyone can endure. A Cramerton personal injury lawyer can help you file for wrongful death.
When a preventable accident leads to death, the fallout can be devastating. An experienced Cramerton wrongful death lawyer from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation for your loss.
What Constitutes Wrongful Death in North Carolina?
A wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the careless, reckless, or intentional act of another individual or entity. Common situations that can lead to wrongful death include:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
- Dangerous property conditions
A wrongful death lawyer in Cramerton can investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, determine liability, and build a case to pursue justice on your behalf.
Who Is Allowed to File a Wrongful Death Claim in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, only the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can officially file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the claim is filed for the financial benefit of surviving family members, such as:
- The spouse of the deceased
- Children of the deceased
- Parents (if the deceased had no spouse or children)
If no representative is appointed, the court will choose one.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover
When you lose someone due to negligence, no amount of money can replace them. That said, a wrongful death settlement can help ease the financial strain that often follows an unexpected death.
In a wrongful death case, several types of damages may be available to surviving family members, including:
- Medical expenses: You can recover the costs of medical care related to the injury or illness that led to your loved one’s death.
- Funeral and burial costs: You can seek reimbursement for funeral, burial, and related expenses.
- Lost income: You can recover the wages and benefits your loved one would have provided had they lived.
- Pain and suffering: You can pursue compensation for the physical and emotional pain your loved one experienced before death.
- Loss of companionship and support: You can recover damages for the emotional suffering caused by losing your loved one’s presence, guidance, and care.
A wrongful death attorney in Cramerton can calculate the full value of your claim and ensure that every form of compensation you are entitled to is pursued.
How a Cramerton Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
Wrongful death cases can take an emotional toll. A skilled attorney can handle the legal process so you can focus on grieving and rebuilding your life. Here’s what a lawyer can do for you:
- Investigate the cause of death: Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to determine how the death occurred and who’s responsible.
- Handle communication with insurance companies: Insurers often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can protect your rights and handle negotiations on your behalf.
- File all necessary legal documents: Missing a deadline or filing incorrectly can harm your case. An attorney can help make sure your documentation is in order.
- Represent you in court: If the case goes to trial, your lawyer will present a compelling argument to help you get justice.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in North Carolina?
Under North Carolina law, wrongful death claims must typically be filed within two years of the date of death. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation.
Since wrongful death cases often require thorough investigations, it’s critical to contact a lawyer as soon as you can. Acting quickly allows your attorney to collect and preserve vital evidence while it’s still available.
Steps to Take After Losing a Loved One
After a wrongful death, emotions often run high, and it’s natural to feel unsure about what to do next. These steps can help you build a strong case:
- Gather documentation: Keep all medical records, accident reports, and correspondence related to the death.
- Avoid speaking with insurance companies: Anything you say could be used against you later. Let your attorney handle all communication with insurers.
- Appoint a personal representative: If one hasn’t been named, your lawyer can guide you through the process.
- Consult an attorney early: The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of securing full and fair compensation will be.
Get Help from Our Wrongful Death Attorneys in Cramerton
If you lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence, you need legal representation. A Cramerton wrongful death attorney from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can explain your legal options and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Book a free case review to find out how you can obtain the compensation your family deserves.
