Chandler Wrongful Death Lawyers

Losing a loved one is among the most challenging experiences anyone can face. Tragically, many individuals who are killed in motor vehicle collisions are innocent drivers, passengers, bicyclists, pedestrians, or motorcyclists who were in the wrong place at the wrong time. These roadway crashes are incredibly devastating and place an immense emotional burden on those who knew and loved the decedent. Arizona law recognizes the importance of a loss of life in an accident and permits eligible survivors to take legal action against those responsible.

Statistics on Fatal Motor Vehicle Collisions

For families dealing with the loss of a loved one, a wrongful death case can provide a means to seek compensation, helping to ease some of the financial burdens during this difficult time. Pursuing justice through legal action can also offer a sense of closure and accountability for those responsible. Statistics show that thousands of individuals lose their lives in vehicular crashes each year due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others:

• According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 40,990 individuals lost their lives in traffic crashes in 2023. Approximately 42,514 fatalities occurred the previous year, accounting for an overall decrease of 3.6 percent.
• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that of the fatalities reported in 2022, most were attributed to lack of seat belt use, speeding, drunk driving, and other reckless behaviors. Fatality rates varied based on driver age, vehicle type, and other factors.
• In a report released by the Arizona Department of Transportation, approximately 1,197 fatal motor vehicle wrecks occurred in 2023. Of the reported crashes, approximately 308 were attributed to alcohol use.

Losing a close relative is always devastating, especially when it happens due to someone else's recklessness or negligence. While no compensation can truly make up for that loss, if surviving family members choose to bring a wrongful death claim in Chandler against those responsible, our experienced legal team at Southwest Injury Law will be there to support them every step of the way. When you are ready to tell us your story, we will be here to provide a free case review.

What is a Wrongful Death Action and How Does It Help Survivors?

A wrongful death claim arises when a loved one passes away due to someone’s reckless or negligent conduct. In these circumstances, the deceased’s surviving family members may be entitled to take legal action against the individual or company responsible for the untimely death. Common types of cases include car wrecks, pedestrian accidents, motorcycle crashes, bicycle accidents, and big rig collisions. To determine if your family is eligible for this type of case, contact an experienced attorney near you.

Who Can File for Wrongful Death in Chandler, Arizona?

Under A.R.S. 12-612, a wrongful death case must be filed by the surviving spouse, child, parent, guardian, or the personal representative of the deceased individual, acting on behalf of the surviving parents, children, or spouse. If none of these individuals are living, the claim may be brought on behalf of the decedent's estate. If you meet the necessary filing criteria, bringing a lawsuit may be an effective way to seek justice for your close relative. For more information on these cases, contact an experienced wrongful death attorney serving Chandler, AZ.

What Must Be Proven in a Fatal Accident Case?

To bring a successful case forward, the plaintiff or surviving family members must present clear evidence that the opposing party owed a legal duty of care to the decedent, the other side breached that duty of care, the fatal incident occurred because of the defendant’s negligence, and the untimely death resulted in damages. Evidence may include the deceased’s medical records or death certificate, police report, video surveillance footage of the fatal incident, eyewitness accounts, photos of property damage, expert witness testimony, and more.

What Types of Losses Can Be Claimed in a Wrongful Death Case in Arizona?

In Arizona, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation when a loved one is killed due to a negligent party’s actions. However, wrongful death laws in the state are complex, and these cases should be handled by an attorney who is well-versed in Arizona wrongful death law. Potential compensation may include economic and non-economic damages. Eligible survivors may be compensated for funeral expenses, loss of future financial support for the family if the deceased was the primary provider, mental anguish, and more.

What Types of Wrongful Death Lawsuits Allow Punitive Damages?

Punitive damages are not available in all cases of wrongful death. They are reserved for those that can successfully demonstrate that the defendant acted with intentional oppression, malice, or willful disregard for the well-being of others. This requires evidence, such as expert witness testimony, documents, and more. In fatal traffic collision cases, survivors may be eligible for punitive damages if the defendant was driving while impaired or operating a motor vehicle in extreme excess of the posted speed limit at the time of the incident.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Fatal Accident Case in Arizona?

A statute of limitations establishes the maximum period after an incident during which a lawsuit can be filed in court against the responsible individual or entity. In Arizona, the time limit for fatal accident cases is two years from the date of the decedent’s demise. Exceptions to the two-year statute of limitations include cases involving government entity negligence, where a shorter filing period may apply. A case against a public agency must be filed within 180 days of the date of the accident fatality.

Since time is limited after a fatal crash, it is important to contact an experienced Chandler wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. Retaining legal counsel immediately will initiate the process of assessing your fatal accident claim. It also helps to ensure that key evidence is gathered and preserved and that crucial deadlines, including the statute of limitations in Arizona, are followed. At our law firm, we provide free consultations to families who have lost loved ones in accidents. To discuss your potential case with an attorney, call us or fill out our online contact form today.

Importance of Contacting a Lawyer After an Accident Fatality

If your family has been affected by a fatal motor vehicle collision in Arizona, it is important to understand your legal rights by consulting with an experienced lawyer. In certain cases, you may be eligible for economic and non-economic damages. The value of a fatal accident claim will depend on various factors, so it is essential to speak with a lawyer immediately. Many surviving family members may attempt to handle their cases on their own, often resulting in significant losses as insurance companies work quickly to devalue or deny claims.

Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney Serving Chandler, Arizona

At Southwest Injury Law, we are dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and focus on accident cases, allowing us to offer the highest level of personalized service to those we represent. To discuss your case with an experienced Chandler wrongful death attorney, contact us at (602) 777-3300. Our law office provides free consultations. There are no attorney’s fees unless we secure a recovery for your fatal accident case. We serve clients across the state of Arizona, including Maricopa County.