There is no greater loss than the loss of a loved family member or a friend. Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents are not uncommon on the roads of Texas. There have been an alarming number of drunk driving accidents causing fatalities. Watching your loved ones suffer due to the negligence of other parties can be enraging.
If your family member was killed by a drunk driver, you need to understand what your rights are. You may be able to receive compensation for your past, current, and future losses. However, the laws are different in each state, and not everyone can file a claim. Talk to a Houston Personal Injury Attorney today.
Can you sue a drunk driver for causing the death of your loved one?
Drunk driving accidents are of a different nature than other road accidents. This is because drunk driving is a serious criminal offense, and the driver can be severely punished regardless of whether someone was injured or not. If you have lost a loved one due to a drunk driving incident, you may be able to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
When suing someone for a drunk driving accident or wrongful death, you may have to consider both criminal and civil charges. In some cases, the drunk driver may face manslaughter charges. If they have motor insurance, you can file a claim against their insurance policy and recover compensation.
You may also be able to seek funeral, burial, and other costs associated with the loss.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Houston?
Every state has different laws about who can file a wrongful death claim and who can seek compensation. In Houston, the surviving spouse, children, and parents, or the estate’s representative can file a wrongful death claim against the liable party. The time limit to file a claim is two years from the date of the victim’s death. However, there are multiple situations that could extend the statute of limitations or pause it.
If it will soon be two years since your loved one’s demise, or it has already been more than two years, contact an attorney to know whether you have any legal options left.
Do DUI accidents result in larger settlements?
When a DUI causes a person’s death, it usually results in a large settlement, typically a million dollars or more. To make sure you obtain the highest compensation possible, seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney today.
