If you recently lost a loved one due to the wrongful conduct of another person or party, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. The dedicated legal team at Oklahoma Injury Law can help you seek justice and accountability through this type of claim. Here is everything you need to know about Oklahoma wrongful death claims:
What Is Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death occurs when someone does something wrong or fails to do something that causes the death of another. Oklahoma’s wrongful death laws also apply to unborn children.
A wrongful death case is different from a criminal case. The purpose of a criminal case is to punish the wrongdoer, while a wrongful death claim focuses on compensating the family for their loss.
What Are Common Causes of Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death cases can arise from a variety of situations, but some of the most common grounds for wrongful death cases include:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Dog bites and attacks
- Medical malpractice
- Criminal acts
An experienced Tulsa wrongful death attorney can evaluate your situation to determine if you have a basis for a wrongful death claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Case in Oklahoma?
Some states allow the decedent’s family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, this right in Oklahoma is reserved for the decedent’s personal representative. This person is named in the will or appointed by the court.
The personal representative files a wrongful death case for the benefit of certain surviving family members, which may include the following people related to the decedent:
- Spouse
- Child
- Parent
- Grandparent
What Compensation Can We Recover in a Wrongful Death Case?
A wrongful death can cause financial consequences that continue for years, coupled with grief and other losses that are difficult to quantify. A wrongful death claim seeks to alleviate some of the financial stress a family experiences and acknowledges the profound impact of the loss on your family.
You can seek compensation for the economic and non-economic damages you suffer, including:
- Lost wages and future earnings the decedent would have provided
- Medical expenses for the final illness or injury
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of inheritance
- Loss of benefits, such as health insurance and retirement funds
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of companionship
- Mental anguish
- Loss of care, guidance, and nurturing
- Loss of society
Every wrongful death case is unique, so it’s important you work with a skilled Tulsa wrongful death lawyer who can account for the full extent of your losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Tulsa?
The statute of limitations to file a wrongful death case in Oklahoma is two years from the date. If the personal representative does not file the case within this time period, the court can later dismiss a late complaint.
If you are considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit, consider discussing the case with an experienced Tulsa wrongful death attorney. Oklahoma Injury Law offers a free, no-obligation consultation to explain your rights and get to know you.
Contact Our Wrongful Death Attorneys for a Free Consultation Today
At Oklahoma Injury Law, we handle all cases with sensitivity and personal attention. We seek to honor your loved one’s legacy and will work hard to secure compensation for your deep losses. Contact us today for a free case review and call Oklahoma Injury Law Firm at (405) 310-8800.