Wrongful Death Lawyer in Austin, Texas

Call (800) 863-5312 to Speak with an Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer for Free

When a loved one has been the victim of a wrongful death, the families affected deserve justice. Our Austin wrongful death attorneys understand how devastating it can be for a family who has unexpectedly lost a loved one. A wrongful death is one that occurs as a result of negligence or purposeful action on behalf of another person or entity. An Austin wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and walk you through the complexities of your case.

If your loved one died because of the actions of another individual, you may have a wrongful death claim under Texas law. This unfortunate circumstance may have brought about many questions about what to do next. An Austin wrongful death lawyer at Zinda Law Group can help you answer those questions and file a claim.

Call (800) 863-5312 today for a free case evaluation with a wrongful death attorney in Austin, Texas. You pay nothing unless we can win your wrongful death case.

Wrongful Death Defined

Wrongful death occurs when someone acts negligently or carelessly, resulting in the death of a person. If a person dies because of the negligence of another person, the family members or survivors of the deceased may bring a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit seeks compensation for the losses of those the deceased left behind. These losses typically include loss of companionship, lost wages, and funeral expenses, and much more.  The plaintiff in a wrongful death case may also be a family member of the deceased who acts on behalf of the deceased’s heirs.

Common Causes

Wrongful death claims may arise after a situation where a victim who could have legally filed a personal injury claim against another party dies as a result of the negligence of the defendant. Unsurprisingly, common causes of wrongful death include car accidents, drunk driving accidents, dangerous or defective products, child abuse, nursing home or elder abuse, construction of an unsafe structure or building, and negligent upkeep of premises (such as an apartment building or hotel pool).

When a loved one passes away unexpectedly, the family is unfortunately often left with many expenses. If there are children involved, they may be unable to support themselves or pay for their schooling. The family members or beneficiaries of the deceased generally file a lawsuit or claim in order to help with these tragic and unfortunate burdens.

There are a variety of types of wrongful death cases. Here are some of the most common ones:

Car and Truck Accidents

As you may have guessed, car and truck accidents are a common cause of wrongful deaths. If a driver is acting negligently (e.g., drinking and driving, texting while driving), the driver may be liable. An Austin truck accident lawyer or Austin car accident lawyer can answer your questions in this instance.

Read More: Austin Truck Accident Lawyer

Medical Malpractice

Next, when a patient dies as a result of their healthcare provider’s negligence, someone may be liable. If the doctor missteps during surgery, the doctor or hospital may be liable. At Zinda Law Group, our medical malpractice attorneys fight to obtain the justice and compensation our clients deserve. Whether the death was caused by a surgical error, misdiagnosis, defective medical product, complications from a medication, or other serious personal injury, Zinda Law Group can help.

Defective Products

Additionally, when a consumer dies as a result of a malfunctioning product, the manufacturer or distributor of the product may be liable for the wrongful death of the consumer. When consumers purchase products, they almost always expect for their products to work as intended. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and some product defects can cause serious injury or death. If your loved one died as a result of a defective product, it’s important to speak with a product injury lawyer in Austin who can help you navigate the legal process.

Premises Liability

Furthermore, if a loved one is killed because of an unsafe environment, several potential parties may be at fault. The property owner, the tenant, or the manager of the premises may be liable, resulting in a wrongful death claim. This because property owners have a duty to ensure that their premises are free from hazards that could cause harm. Failure to do so opens the property owner up to liability, and survivors of the deceased can bring an action against the property owner and the property owner’s insurance company.

What to do After an Accidental Death

Dealing with an accidental death in your family can be an incredibly challenging time. Still, it’s important to know what to do if you are ever involved in an accident that resulted in a fatality. Given that fatal accidents have only increased over the last few years, it’s important to know what to do, as well as the right Austin wrongful death lawyer to call.

1. Report the Accident

First, you should call 9-1-1 so that a police officer can file and create a report. Also, you should report the accident to your insurance company. The sooner you report the accident, the sooner you can obtain an accident report, which will be needed in the legal process.

2. Document the Accident

Next, when a loved one dies, you should get the names of everyone involved. Find out the names of any witnesses and get their contact information. Also, find out the insurance company that insures any people, vehicles, or entities involved in the accident. When it is possible, it may be helpful for you to take pictures of the scene and the injuries. Evidence can change or be altered at any moment, so it’s crucial to gather evidence quickly and store it safely. A Zinda Law Group Austin wrongful death lawyer can help you gather evidence to make this process less burdensome or painful.

3. Contact an Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer

Finally, if your loved one has died in an accident, finding the right lawyer can save you money, time, and stress. Your attorney should have a proven record for handling complex wrongful death cases and the ability and resources to investigate the circumstances and pursue maximum compensation. A Zinda Law Group Austin wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and answer your questions during this difficult time. You shouldn’t have to go through this process alone.

Elements of a Wrongful Death Claim

There are four elements that the plaintiff must prove to establish wrongful death:

• Duty: The defendant owed a duty to the deceased;
• Breach: The defendant failed to comply with this duty in some way (e.g., by violating a law);
• Causation: The breach of this duty caused an accident that resulted in the death of the deceased;
• Damages: The plaintiff suffered damages from the injuries.

Determining Who is at Fault with the Help of an Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer

It is not always immediately obvious who is at fault, and who is at fault may depend on the type of accident that occurred. That’s why it’s important to contact an Austin wrongful death lawyer who can help you investigate your claim and determine liability. Fault can vary depending on the type of accident:

Car and Truck Accidents

In a car or truck accident, most often, it is the driver who is at fault. All drivers have a duty to drive safely. If they breached that duty (e.g., by driving while intoxicated), and if that breach causes the death of the diseased (e.g., by crashing into the car they were in), then the driver may be liable.

The car or truck manufacturer could also be at fault. They have a duty to create cars that are safe and comply with certain laws and regulations. If the manufacturer breaches that duty, and if that breach contributes to a death, then the manufacturer may be liable. For example, if the manufacturer produces a car with faulty brakes, which then hits the car of the deceased and leads to their death, that car maker would potentially be liable.

Other potentially liable parties include the employer of the driver (particularly for commercial truck drivers), the inspector of the vehicle, the entity who paves the road.

Read More: Austin Truck Accident Lawyer

Medical Malpractice

For medical malpractice cases, it is usually the doctor who is at fault. Doctors have a duty to provide a certain standard of care to the patient. If a doctor breaches that duty (e.g., leaves a medical tool inside the patient during surgery), and that breach results in death, the doctor may be liable. There are often many doctors involved, so it is important to determine which of the doctors are at fault.

Defective Products

When companies sell products to consumers, they have a duty to the consumer to provide safe products. If the product malfunctions and causes the death of another person, the manufacturer may have breached their duty and may be liable.

Premises Liability

Owners and operators of properties have a duty to provide a safe environment for those who visit the property. If the owner or operator fails to maintain a safe environment and that unsafe premise results in death, the property owner or operator may be liable.

Zinda Law Group

4.9

Based on 196 reviews

Zinda Law Group

5.0

Based on 98 reviews

Zinda Law Group

4.8

Based on 228 reviews

I had the privilege of working with Zinda Law Group recently and was thoroughly impressed with the level of service and support they provided. When we began, I had reservations about the likelihood of reaching a settlement, but the team's professionalism, intelligence, and dedication quickly put those doubts to rest. They went above and beyond to ensure that I was informed and comfortable throughout the process, and their hard work and strong advocacy ultimately led to a successful outcome. I cannot thank Zinda Law Group and their staff enough for their exceptional service and support, and I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their commitment to their clients and their willingness to fight for what's right truly sets them apart. In short, I give them a rating of five stars for their outstanding work.

Israel Aldaba

Zinda Law Group is amazing! My husband was in an accident and they made the process super easy and hassle free. They took care of everything, we are so appreciative for them! They exceeded our expectations. We will definitely be telling everyone we know about them. Thank you Zinda Law for everything!

Andrinna Mendibles

Zinda Law Group is an amazing firm! My case was not without its challenges, but they handled it all in stride. They kept me up to date, kept me informed every step of the way, and ensured I understood the process and all of my options. Burgess, Ryan and their extremely capable staff of Paralegals made a very challenging process as painless as possible. They were kind, compassionate, and patient, and just a real pleasure to work with. I would, and will, recommend them highly to anyone needing an attorney.

Amy V

My experience with Zinda Law Group was pretty awesome. I definitely would recommend their Law firm. Brendan and his team were very friendly, helpful and informative about my case and were able to win as well. I really appreciate all of their hard work and dedication, I highly recommend.Thank you all again for your help and your time.Sincerely,Pat.b

Patrick Bigger

I was very satisfied with the professionalism of my attorney and the paralegals, they helped me threw this accident and got me a great settlement, all while keeping me involved and informed. Zinda law group made me feel comfortable and I trusted them to fight for me. The trust was well placed! Thank Yous, I appreciate all that Yous done for me and my family!!

David Ramos

I’ve had such a great experience with Zinda law group! They’ve handled everything relatively quickly and professionally. They really have made my life a lot easier. I recommend anyone dealing with auto accidents (or similarly) to Zinda Law group.I felt I was very important to them and that my feelings and thoughts were validated. They treated me with much care and respect, not like “just another client”. I couldn’t have asked for a better team.

Bree Fultz

I truly recommend Zinda law group they truly helped me and my family during such a hard hard time. Very accommodating they work extremely hard to make sure that you are compensated from start to finish they made it happen and made a rough time a lot smoother than I could of ever imagined thank you all for everything if you are looking for a lawyer that goes above beyond look no further Michael will get you taken care of!

lena shannon

Zinda Law did an excellent job for us from start to finish. They communicated clearly and their staff was great! My son Nic was in a car accident and had an injury to his eye. Zinda Law took care of everything start to finish and obtained the maximum amount possible from insurance for his injury.

Shelly Ruedin

I am so glad I called Zinda law group. being hit by a drink driver was the worst experience of my life physically and emotionally. As soon as I reached out they got the ball rolling with all my medical needs. They were in contact with all of my appointments and made my recovery as smooth as possible. I would definitely without a doubt recommend them. A huge shout out to Shivangi for taking over and fighting for what my family and I deserved.

Veronica Portillo

My experience with Zinda Law Group has been OUTSTANDING! Big shoutout to Joe Caputo and his team!I was the passenger in a terrible car accident that left me needing medical attention. The person at faults insurance company reassured me that my medical bills would be taken care of. However, that was not the case. I started receiving multiple calls from debt collectors, and bill after bill by mail. The driver’s insurance company no longer returned my calls, and emails went unanswered. I was so stressed and over my head with how to handle the situation. It was time to call the pros! As soon as I made the call to Zinda Law Group, Joe and his team I were on it! I no longer received calls from debt collectors, so I knew action was taken immediately. I was informed every step of the way, and every call/email was answered. Had I called sooner, I would have never gone through all that stress. I was treated like a friend, not just a client.Thank you Zinda Law Group!

KJ Matocha

I hired Zinda for a crazy situation involving an 18 wheeler where an object flew off a trailer and blasted through my windshield.I reached out to Zinda and spoke with Michael Cupero, my attorney at Zinda, after the accident once I realized this is affecting my day to day life in a significant way (PTSD from a "Final Destination" type of incident) and Michael was nothing short of fantastic through the entire process.The Zinda team, including Michael and Mary-Catherine Holt and several others, guided me through the entire process from initial settlement offers, filing the lawsuit, depositions, the whole 9.They listened to my concerns, provided clarity and perspective when needed, and not once did I feel that my best interest was not at the forefront of their actions and behavior through my experience as a client.Thank you Michael, Mary-Catherine and Zinda!If you want a team that will treat you with professionalism, respect, and understanding then do yourself a favor and reach out to Zinda!

Dyllan Larson

Extremely professional and communicative . They explained the process as we went along and made it very clear weighting pros and cons. They understood my pain and my worries but kept their expertise always on the top of things finding elements for me to win my case. I am thankful to have had Zinda Law Group to support me during those two years as it finalized and I can keep on living.

vero dupont

My experience with Zinda law group has been wonderful from start to finish. Natasha and Emily explained everything very well and answered any questions I had, communicated well throughout the whole process , and handled the case very professionally, they worked very hard on my case I would definitely highly recommend to friends and family.

Shanece Mandonado

I found myself in a situation where I needed legal representation. After looking over reviews in the area, I decided to contact Natasha at Zinda law group in the hopes that she could represent me . Natasha put me at ease with her responsiveness and her ability to accommodate my last minute needs. I had no idea what to expect. It felt like a wave of relief knowing that you're working with a professional that knows what she's doing, and knows how to get things done quickly and efficiently. I appreciate the time and attention that Natasha put into my case. I hope I won't be needing their services again in the future, but I would absolutely contact them again if I do. Thanks again

Kyle Miller

I am very satisfied with the service and the outcome of my case.Since the first phone call, and every step of the way until the end, Zinda Law was on top of every detail pertaining to my auto accident case.The case is now closed, and looking back, they made every step of the process easy and manageable. They were very thorough in explaining the different scenarios, and extremely transparent with all the possible outcomes.Thank you to every person who aided in the success of my case, all of whom were exceptional in their tasks and working as a team.

Jorge Estevez

The Zinda Law Group was outstanding in helping me with my aunts case. My two Attorneys Neil and Shivangi were very compassionate, kind, eager to help, and really listen carefully and attentively to my case about my aunt. My aunt got hit by a driver while crossing the street and killed. I went after the guys insurance; although, this doesn't bring back my aunt, but allows for this not to happen to other people like this in her case. These attorneys worked very hard and efficiently to bring the justice that they saw fit. When I had a question they explained in terms I understood and not above and beyond me. I appreciate it when people can come down to my level and not intimidate and use trepidation on someone in feeling like they are the fly while they're the spider waiting for the right moment for the fly to walk into its web.Neil and Shivangi always whenever they called asked me how I was at the beginning of our conversations and is there anything I needed at the end of each call. Each call they made to me, was made very professional, personable and felt heart felt as if you were part of the family. At the end of each subject matter they always asked, "Do you have any questions for me before we go to the next thing we need to talk about?" They always wanted to make sure I understood everything before the next item we needed to talk about. These guys really are good and want to please the client anyway they can I thought; when I first started talking to them. I give them above and beyond a 5-Star rating if there was such a thing. I Highly Recommend The Zinda Law Group to Anyone who needs them. This is what I give them if I could!!💯💯💯💯💯 and👍👍👍👍👍 and⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐❗❗❗THANK YOU TO NEIL, SHIVANGI, MARA AND TO EVERYONE AT THE ZINDA LAW GROUP WHO WORKED ON MY CASE!! I APPRECIATE YOU ALL!

Tom M.

I would like to recognize a fantastic attorney named Joe Caputo from Zinda Law Group. I was involved in an auto accident that had many complicated moving parts that were hard to navigate and understand as a victim. Joe was so gracious and spent quality time explaining what courses of action I needed to take as a victim to protect myself. Joe was also diligent in following up with me regarding my case and provided guides and checklists that were extremely helpful to keep things organized and moving. Joe was always readily available for my questions and responded promptly. Joe Caputo's excellent counsel ensured I protected myself when dealing with the opposing insurance company and ensured the best possible outcome for my case. Joe's expertise in personal injury lawsuits helped alleviate the stress and anxiety that follows the aftermath of an auto accident. Thanks again Joe! You are truly an amazing, kind person and attorney!

Katherina Walker

Zinda Law was incredibly amazing. I had the pleasure of working with Michael and his incredibly hard working team after my wreck in November. They went above and beyond keeping up with my health, bills, insurance companies, all that fun stuff I had no time for. After what felt like such a short amount of time, they were able to win every last penny from the "bad guys" insurance (loved that term). I couldn't happier, and even though I went through something traumatic, it was still the best experience I could have ever asked for. Thank you Michael and everyone that helped with my case, yall are the best!!

Allie Scott

My attorney was Christina , she and her team gave me the best outcome for my case .I am giving an honesty review at first I was very upset because I kept getting moved around and I never knew who I was talking to because they switch attorneys and kept changing my paralegals.. I was going to go with another law firm but Christina helped me with my case from then on out and she worked around my schedule to talk to me which I appreciate. Also my last law firm took 30 percent, and this one took 33 percent which I wasn’t to happy so just a heads up. Overall I rate this 4 stars cause I’m just happy the case is over with and I get to go back to my life.Update: I just received another call from my attorney and they have worked to negotiate my case with the billing and have put more money in my pocket. All the money that I had spent while working on the case has came back to me. I can fully move on and say that I have gain every penny that was lose during those hard times. I’m so happy and thankful to Zinda law group!!!!!!

Julie Nguyen

Zinda Law Group did an excellent job with my case. The staff was super friendly and super effective as far as communicating with me throughout the entire case. I highly recommend Zinda Law Group for your next case and for any of your future cases. 5 Stars across the board thank you so much for everything!

Joe Jones

Joh Harper, Priyonka Bhikha, and the rest of the team gave my case a quick and satisfactory conclusion. The attorney, Mr. Harper did an absolutely amazing job keeping me on the same page as far as the case goes. Honestly, if anybody is hurt in a car wreck or another personal injury case, I WILL STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU SPEAK TO THEM.

Jake The fox

I was in a motor vehicle collision about two years ago. From the minute I picked up the phone to speak with a representative to the case finally settling, it was a great experience. I worked with Burgess Williams and his team (Kathy, Ryan, and Linda) throughout the process. They were all very professional and helpful when I needed them the most.

Paul Tharp

Great Firm. I was in motorcycle accident- T-boned at a full stop with my daughter riding on back. Zinda's team was instantly responsive. Christina was very compassionate, organized and scheduled time before every legal event to discuss goals and overview. The process was 2 years but during that time the lawyers and staff (John and Shane were also great) were always available and understanding. The team is focused on doing what is right and by the book. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone who is suffering from a motorcycle accident.

Private Site

Jason Aldridge and his paralegal Mara did an absolutely amazing job on my case. They were very responsive to all emails, calls and even texts. They treated me with dignity and respect from start to finish. I never once felt like my case was at the back of the list or anything. Not only did they explain and walked me through everything, they got me the help I needed and a final outcome over what I had expected. I would highly recommend this law firm, Jason and Mara to anyone seeking legal assistance.

Estopot

Highly Recommended-100% Satisfied!.From the initial phone call I felt confident I chose the right firm. They explained the process and I was always in the loop, even when we were at a stand still. Very grateful I was quickly referred to them by a friend who had a similar case. Both of us are happy with the end result. Thank you!

Philip de Leon

My team of lawyer were very professional and communicated extremely clearly. They kept me updated on their status and did not make me worry at all about my situation. They explained everything to me very well and put things into simple terms for my understanding. I am very satisfied with their performance.

JESSIE- PICHIN HUANG

I would recommend them to anyone that's been involved in an accident and feels skeptical in engaging an attorney.When one gets into an accident, you're traumatized, confused, angry and helpless.That was me last year, getting all kinds of advice becomes your next norm, to use or not to use an attorney.I was in so much pain from my injuries but at the same time knew I had to act fast.I called Zinda Law Group for consultation, they took my case seriously and treated me with respect, they were very professional and understanding.Elizabeth, kudos to you, you're true to your word, Integrity should be your last name.Jason Aldridge my attorney went to work immediately, he assured me that all be well and I should concentrate on my healing and he will do the rest. Thank your Sir, You did just that.His team, Mara, Zuleyma and Andrew, they all become my support system, so professional and lots of respect in each and everyphone call or email. Thank you guys.I would recommend anyone to use Zinda Law Group.

Jane Githure

I honestly loved not dealing with the hospital bills while I was recuperating. It gave me peace of mind going through this process and Zinda took care of everything. They found awesome health providers for me and haven't had to worry about anything while they've been taking my case. I've been well informed, communicated with, responded to and understood by Zinda. They have been efficient and effective while working on my case and I'm so glad I choose to go with this law firm.

Christian

When I was injured in a car accident in March of 2020 the insurance companies were not concerned with my well being. I called Zinda Law group & spoke with Reagan, who went over my concerns & later had Jono contact me. After reviewing my information with Jono my case was immediately put in motion. I worked mainly with Sam Thomas who truly was a blessing to me, he was very supportive & genuinely concerned with my well being, everything wasn't simply about the case it was about me being healed & getting the proper treatment that I needed. Sam was also emotionally supportive when I went through several losses in my family & is a great friend. In all everyone was extremely supportive & all worked for me which was quite a different legal experience for me from Law groups in my past. I was well supported, always informed, treated with respect & made the priority in all decisions. Zinda Law Group made sure I was compensated completely & that I didn't have financial stresses over hospital bills after all was said & done. Sam, Katrina, Mary Catherine, Reagan & Jono I just want to thank you & all of Zinda for the incredible experience & the wonderful caring people that you all are, you are truly Golden in your field.

Kathryn Shelton

They helped me after I got into car accident, they are such a great professional business. I would honestly recommend them to anyone that would need help after a car accident for sure, they kept me up to date with everything that was happening on with my case. I had multiple people working on my said case and they were very professional and nice whenever they had called me and kept it very simple for me to understand what was actually going on. I'm extremely happy that I had found them and went with them to help me and I'm so thankful for them. 10/10 would recommend!

Silver Hunter

I am so glad I got in touch with Zinda! My car accident occurred just 4 days prior to moving, during the busiest week of the year at my job, and just a week before the quarantine was declared a new reality for all of us. Everyone at Zinda remained persistent, supportive, and most of all advocated for me throughout such a chaotic time. I’ll always be grateful for the care they took to make sure my health and well-being were taken care of. So super grateful to know that a split second mistake someone else made doesn’t have to dictate my life. Thanks!

Emily Miller

My experience with Zinda Law Group was better than expected. After an accident that totalled my car, I reached out and was paired with a wonderful attorney. She communicated frequently and responded to my calls and texts in a timely manner. She was friendly, knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions. I was kept in the loop during every step of the process. I would call Zinda Law if I ever need this type of support again.

Caitlin Coburn

I had an excellent experience working with the attorneys at Zinda Law Group! They were knowledgeable, professional and patient. They walked me through every step of the long process of getting treatment after my car wreck and kept me updated with timeframes and next steps. I would absolutely recommend anyone working with them!

Natalie Staples

They helped me with so much! I had a dog bite happen 2019 and it was very heart breaking! This law group made everything so easy to help me through a rough time! John Rogers and Shane Eckert were very easy to talk to and open about if I needed to talk about frustrations I had with bills. Everything got closed before Christmas and I was so blessed! I highly recommend them no matter what! Thank you guys so much!

Morgan Makomaski

Zinda Law Group helped me with my personal injury case after an auto accident. I was hurt pretty badly and I wasn't sure which attorney to call, I looked at reviews for Zinda Law and called right away.Kaitlin Nares and her team were so responsive and helpful. Kaitlin called me right away and helped me navigate through a very difficult process and time in my life. Being hurt in a car accident changes you!!! My case settled for more than I thought it would, and a lot quicker. I know sometimes things are more complicated, but my case was settled in only 3 months after my accident. Mary-Catherine was also so helpful in making sure everything was finalized! I have referred two people who have recently been in auto accident because it's not IF, its WHEN these days... I usually don't write reviews unless I feel strongly about sharing my experience to help others! Thank you!!!

hannah kozloff

I was referred here by a family member. Our lawyer jason and his team did and amazing job. They kept me updated in everything made sure I understood what was going on. My son was hit by a van in the hospital jason came right over. He's awesome so much down to earth straight forward. I would recommend him and his firm to everyone and I have thank you zinda but most of all thank you Jason for being there for us for being a friend

Minnie 512atx

Zinda Law Group was recommended to me from another satisfied client and I certainly received excellent service. The attorneys and staff are very proactive with communication and I knew every step of the way what was happening on my case. I never felt pressured with decision making and they went above & beyond to answer questions with satifactory explanations. This is a very professional group of attorneys & support staff. In addition, they were willing to meet me at a location more convenient for me. I appreciated their concern for my time.

Melissa Nadlman

Could not speak highly enough of the firm. I was involved in my first accident and thankfully had Zinda Law Group supporting me through the scary time. Jono took care of me every step of the way. He made me feel like I was a priority through the entire process. A big thank you to Jono and the rest of the Zinda crew!

Aude Sandot

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How to File a Claim with an Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer

1. Contact an Attorney

First, finding an experienced Austin wrongful death lawyer can make the process much less stressful and costly. If your loved one has been involved in an accidental death, you should contact a lawyer before proceeding. Your lawyer will review all the information pertaining to your claim. This may include interviewing you about the accident and gathering medical bills and other information necessary to support your claim. If your attorney determines that you have a claim, they will continue to work with you on your case so that it can be resolved and you can get your life back on track.

2. Investigation

Next, the attorneys, any involved insurance companies, and claims adjusters will investigate the claim and evaluate the damage. They may consider how the death occurred, where it occurred, whether it was preventable, and any medical costs incurred as a result of the accident. An experienced Austin wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate this process and clear up any aspects of the investigation phase that you do not understand.

3. Case Settlement

Importantly, most cases are settled before reaching trial. Before a case can be settled, it is important to know what your case is worth. It can take a long time to get a fair settlement. Your lawyer can help you decide if and when to settle your case.

4. Hearing

In the unlikely event that your case goes to trial, the judge will conduct the fact-finding by listening to testimony by witnesses and reviewing relevant documents and exhibits.

Case Settlement

There are three main kinds of damages that a plaintiff may recover from a wrongful death case. These damages include economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are losses that can be calculated in terms of dollars and cents with reasonable precision.

Medical expenses are recoverable economic damages. This may include emergency room visits, ambulance or helicopter transportation, prescription drug costs, surgery expenses, rehabilitation or therapy expenses, and any other medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

It also includes any financial support that the deceased would have provided the plaintiff during a typical life expectancy. Most often, this is the deceased’s potential earnings and wages. Lost benefits, such as pensions or insurance, are also recoverable.

Non-Economic (Intangible) Damages

Non-economic or intangible damages are usually given to compensate for any psychological harm. You may be able to receive compensation for suffering, loss of companionship, loss of love, and loss of care. Calculating and predicting the value that will be given to your intangible damages is difficult. When a loved one dies, it is not uncommon for six- or even seven-figure awards to be given.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages, also known as exemplary damages, are designed to punish the defendant in cases of serious wrongdoing. For example, if the driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident, punitive damages may be awarded.

Legal Time Limits

After an accident occurs, the plaintiff has a limited time to file a lawsuit. This time limit is called the “statute of limitations.” The statute of limitations for wrongful death cases varies by state, but it is typically two years unless the case falls into one of the exceptions. These exceptions include the following:

• The deceased is a minor
• The negligence of defendants was not known during those two years
• A mental or physical impairment of the plaintiff prevented them from filing a claim during those two years
• Fraudulent activity was involved

Cases Involving Children

In child wrongful death cases, the child’s parent or guardian may file a claim on the child’s behalf. That person is called the “next friend.” While typically the guardian acts as a next friend, anyone may stand in as one.

Seek the Help of a Zinda Law Group Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

Zinda Law Group may be able to help you to obtain financial compensation for the expenses associated with death, such as medical and funeral bills, loss of income, lost insurance benefits, loss of inheritance, and pain and suffering. It is very important to your case that you retain the services of a knowledgeable and compassionate Austin wrongful death lawyer who can help you and your family through this difficult time.

Our Austin personal injury attorneys understand that you are mourning your loved one and adjusting to life without them. We believe that with our legal help, you can not only obtain financial compensation but can rest easy knowing that the responsible party has been held accountable. Our Austin wrongful death attorneys treat each case equally and no matter the size of your case, you will work directly with a lawyer.

At Zinda Law Group, we are dedicated to our clients and ensure that their rights are protected. And as our client, you will pay nothing unless we can win your case. If you believe you may have a wrongful death claim, call (800) 863-5312 or chat us for a free case evaluation.

Meetings with attorneys by appointment only.

Our Awards

AWARDED TO JOHN C. (JACK) ZINDA BY THE NATIONAL TRIAL LAWYERS ASSOCIATION (2016-2020)

AWARDED TO JOHN C. (JACK) ZINDA (2009, 2011-2012, 2014-2021), JOE CAPUTO (2019-2021), BURGESS WILLIAMS (2019-2020), & NEIL SOLOMON (2020-2021)

AWARDED TO JACK ZINDA (2016-2020), JOE CAPUTO (2016 – 2020) & BURGESS WILLIAMS (2016-2017)

LIFETIME MEMBERS JOHN C. (JACK) ZINDA & JOE CAPUTO