At Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the pain and uncertainty you’re facing after losing a loved one. Our Lee’s Summit car accident lawyers are here to help you seek justice, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation your family deserves.
With over 45 years of combined experience and more than $1 billion recovered for our clients, we’ve built a reputation for fighting tirelessly for families during their hardest moments.
Whether the accident was caused by reckless driving, speeding, or a drunk driver, a fatal car accident lawyer in Lee’s Summit can provide the support and legal representation you need.
Below, we’ll walk you through how wrongful death claims work, what steps you should take, and how we can help protect your family’s future.
What Qualifies as a Fatal Car Accident Case?
A fatal car accident case arises when someone loses their life due to another party’s negligence or wrongful actions. These cases often fall under wrongful death claims, which are designed to compensate surviving family members for their loss.
The goal is not only to provide financial relief but also to hold the at-fault party accountable.
Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking, or any activity that takes attention off the road
- Drunk or Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless Driving: Excessive speeding, tailgating, or aggressive driving
- Failure to Obey Traffic Laws: Running red lights, rolling through stop signs, or ignoring right-of-way rules
- Defective Vehicles or Parts: Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts
Each of these causes underscores the importance of investigating fatal accidents thoroughly. Evidence is key to proving negligence and ensuring justice. Our Lee’s Summit personal injury lawyers can gather and evaluate evidence to help prove your negligence claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri?
In Missouri, only certain family members can file a wrongful death claim after a fatal car accident as outlined in RSMo Section 537.080. These include:
- Immediate Family Members: Spouses, children, and parents
- Siblings: If no immediate family members are available, siblings may file
- Court–Appointed Representatives: If no family members exist, the court may appoint someone to represent the victim’s estate
Your eligibility to file a claim depends on your relationship to the deceased. A Lee’s Summit fatal car accident lawyer can help clarify your rights and guide you through this process.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Fatal Car Accident Case?
Wrongful death claims aim to provide financial compensation for the losses you’ve suffered. This often includes:
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Covering the expenses of saying goodbye to your loved one
- Medical Bills: Any costs associated with the victim’s care prior to their passing
- Lost Income: Compensation for the financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of Companionship: Recognizing the emotional toll of losing a loved one
Damages may also include loss of service and loss of guidance.
Every case is unique, and the damages you may recover depend on the circumstances. Our Lee’s Summit fatal car accident attorneys take the time to understand your family’s specific needs and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Can a Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Lee’s Summit Help?
Dealing with a wrongful death claim while grieving can be too much to handle on your own. That’s why having an experienced attorney by your side is so important. Here’s how we can help:
- Investigating the Accident: We’ll gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and analyze crash reports to build a strong case.
- Proving Negligence: Our attorneys will establish who was at fault and demonstrate how their actions caused the accident.
- Handling Insurance Companies: We will negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement for your family.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, we’ll take your case to court and fight for justice on your behalf.
- Providing Support: We’ll be with you every step of the way, answering your questions and ensuring your voice is heard.
We believe in treating every client like family. Your loss is deeply personal, and we are committed to seeking accountability for your loved one’s death.
How Can You Protect Your Rights After Losing a Loved One in a Car Accident?
In the days or weeks following the tragedy, it’s important to take steps to protect your rights and seek justice. Here’s what you can do:
- Request the Police Report: If you haven’t already, obtain a copy of the police report. It contains vital information about the crash and may help establish fault.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep any photos, videos, or documents related to the crash, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and correspondence with insurance companies.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurers Without Legal Guidance: Insurance companies often aim to settle quickly for less than you deserve. Consult an attorney before accepting any insurance company’s offer of a settlement.
- Limit Social Media Activity: Avoid posting anything about the accident, your grief, or your legal actions. Insurers and opposing parties may use your posts against you.
- Consult a Fatal Car Accident Attorney in Lee’s Summit: A skilled attorney can investigate the accident, gather additional evidence, and ensure your family’s rights are protected.
Even weeks later, it’s not too late to take action. Seeking legal help can provide clarity, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation your family needs to move forward.
A compassionate lawyer will handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.
Contact a Lee’s Summit Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Foster Wallace, we understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one. But we also believe in holding negligent parties accountable and helping families find closure.
With over 45 years of combined experience and more than $1 billion recovered, we have the resources and expertise to fight for justice on your behalf.
Your family deserves compassion, care, and relentless advocacy. Your Injury. Our Fight. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward healing and securing your family’s future.
