A wrongful death lawyer Des Moines IA families trust knows that vehicle accidents result in thousands of deaths every year. Many of these accidents are due to negligence. For example, if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or speeding, he or she can cause injuries or death to other people on the road. What Are the Elements of Wrongful Death?
Losing a loved one to a car accident can be one of the most heartbreaking things you experience. While nothing can bring that person back, you may be able to sue the negligent driver for damages and get justice for your family member. Here is some advice on how to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident:
Know the Statute of Limitations
Like all other lawsuits, a wrongful death claim comes with a statute of limitations. This is the deadline placed on the lawsuit. Some states may have a deadline of four years while others may only have a deadline of two years. When you are in the middle of grieving and planning funeral arrangements, a lawsuit is probably the last thing you want to think about. However, if you wait too long, it could affect your chances of getting compensation for your loved one’s death. A wrongful death lawyer Des Moines IA clients call can determine the statute of limitations in your case.
Gather Documents
In order to win a wrongful death lawsuit, you must have the proper documents pertaining to the accident and your family member’s death. For example, you should contact the police and get a copy of the accident report. You should also obtain documentation that relates to your loved one’s death, like medical bills and funeral expenses.
Contact a Wrongful Death Lawyer Des Moines IA Locals Depend On
Filing a wrongful death claim can be quite complex, so you may be better off talking to a reputable Des Moines wrongful death lawyer. He or she can review your case for free and advise you on the best way to proceed. If your lawyer believes you have a strong case, they can help you file the paperwork on time and help you gather the appropriate evidence. A wrongful death attorney will protect your legal rights and represent you in court.
Ask Questions at Your Consultation
A wrongful death lawyer Des Moines IA residents recommend should not be the only one asking questions during the initial consultation. It’s also important to ask the lawyer questions about his or experience or skills. This will help you determine if he or she is the right person to represent you. A good lawyer should be more than happy to answer all of your questions.
For example, you may want to ask a wrongful death lawyer in Des Moines IA how many wrongful death cases he or she has handled in the past. If the attorney has only dealt with one or two wrongful death cases, they probably don’t have the experience you are looking for. It may also be important to ask a lawyer where they want to law school and how they plan to tackle your case.
Do not wait to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer Des Moines IA provides for assistance.
