Losing a loved one unexpectedly can be painful and overwhelming, especially in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Pursuing a wrongful death claim after the passing of your loved one can be beneficial in many ways, including obtaining compensation for funeral costs and other financial losses, as well as justice for the pain and suffering you’re enduring as you look for closure after their untimely death.
If you have experienced a traumatic loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, speak to an experienced Utah wrongful death lawyer for a chance to obtain the justice you deserve and compensation for the losses you have suffered. No one should have to live through a loved one’s departure, especially due to the carelessness of another party.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Utah
Utah, like other states, has its own distinct laws regarding wrongful death claims. Utah code 78B-3-106 explains that wrongful death is defined as a “wrongful act, default, or neglect,” of an at-fault party or entity. The negligent or wrongful actions of the party led to the untimely death of a victim that would have resulted in a personal injury claim if the victim had not passed.
Wrongful death claims are akin to personal injury claims in that they must be actionable injuries caused by the at-fault party. However, because the victim died because of the action, they cannot file a personal injury claim and require another party to pursue a wrongful death claim on their behalf.
In these cases, there are specific family members who are allowed to file a wrongful death claim on the victim’s behalf. A Utah wrongful death claim can be pursued by an heir of the deceased party, a guardian, or a personal representative of the estate of the deceased party. Those typically involved include:
- Wife, husband, or surviving spouse
- Adult children
- A parent or adoptive parents
- Stepchildren and adopted children
- Any other blood relatives listed in the inheritance
If the victim had an estate plan in place at the time of their passing, it may indicate a personal representative. The chosen representative can file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased. If your family member has passed as a result of a wrongful death accident, speak to an experienced Utah wrongful death attorney for a chance to hold them accountable for their actions and obtain the necessary compensation you deserve for your losses.
5 Benefits of Hiring a Wrongful Death Attorney in Utah
When the negligent and careless actions of another result in the wrongful death of a loved one, it can be devastating and traumatic. A lot of the time, these actions could have been avoided if the at-fault party had exercised a duty of care. Some common wrongful death accidents that occur because of deliberate or careless actions include car accidents, pedestrian accidents, and workplace accidents. A Utah wrongful death attorney can be beneficial in these cases for these reasons:
- Extensively experienced in pursuing justice for wrongful death victims and their surviving families, including being well-versed in legal complexities surrounding such cases.
- Professionally advise you on the best steps forward for a successful outcome in your case.
- Expertly negotiate on your behalf to seek the maximum settlement you deserve.
- Take on the stress and mental focus of the case so you can focus on healing and processing your loss.
- Understanding the compensation you deserve and helping to ensure you obtain the value you are owed in your wrongful death claim.
Working with a seasoned wrongful death lawyer in Utah can be beneficial in many ways, including focusing on your case, so you have the opportunity to grieve your deceased loved one. We will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your claim from all angles and obtain the evidence needed to produce a favorable outcome. We are experienced negotiators and knowledgeable in wrongful death laws relevant to your specific claim.
Damages You May Obtain in a Wrongful Death Claim in Utah
Damages that you may recover in a wrongful death case are meant to compensate those affected by the death of the victim, including surviving heirs and the deceased estate, for losses resulting in the death of a loved one. In a successful wrongful death case in Utah, you may recover the following damages:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Hospital bills and other medical bills associated with your loved one’s death
- Future and present lost income and benefits
- The pain and suffering you’ve endured due to their untimely death
- Loss of companionship and care
- Punitive damages
Wrongful death damages cover both economic and non-economic losses experienced by the surviving heirs, estate, and family members. Punitive damages, however, are meant to be awarded to punish the at-fault party for their negligent actions so that they may not repeat them in the future. To determine what damages you may be entitled to, speak to an experienced Utah wrongful death lawyer for an assessment of your case.
Speak to a Seasoned Utah Wrongful Death Attorney for an Assessment of Your Case
Losing a loved one unexpectedly can be gut-wrenching and overwhelming, especially in cases where the death could have been prevented had the at-fault party exercised a duty of care. We understand that a victim and their family should never be financially responsible for an accident caused by another. Speak to a seasoned Feller & Wendt attorney today in order to regain the compensation you deserve and to hold the at-fault party responsible for their actions.
The legal team at Feller & Wendt has been trusted for over 30 years to fight for victims who have been affected by a wrongful death accident. We offer compassionate, dedicated, and client-oriented representation that is supported by a 95% success rate in obtaining the compensation you deserve for the losses you have endured. To speak with a Utah wrongful death attorney, call (801) 499-5060 for a complimentary consultation, or fill out our contact form.
