Filing a Wrongful Death Claim on Behalf of a Spouse Killed in a Motorcycle Crash

 Posted on February 24, 2023 in Wrongful Death

For motorcycle enthusiasts, there are few things that compare to riding a motorcycle through the winding roads of Dallas. Unfortunately, riding a motorcycle comes with significant dangers. Motorcycles make up just three percent of the registered motor vehicles in the U.S., but they account for 14 percent of traffic fatalities. Tragically, many motorcycle fatalities are preventable. If other drivers simply paid more attention to their surroundings and drove with caution, thousands of motorcyclists’ lives could be saved.

If your spouse passed away in a motorcycle crash, you may be able to take legal action against the at-fault party and seek justice for your deceased loved one. You may also be able to recover compensation for expenses such as medical bills and funeral costs.

Who is Legally Responsible for a Fatal Motorcycle Wreck?

Motorcycle accidents are most frequently caused by negligent driving. Other drivers who are distracted by cell phones or GPS systems may not notice a motorcyclist in the lane beside them. Drunk drivers may not be able to see or respond to a motorcycle at all. Speeding, failure to yield, failure to stop at a red light, and other traffic violations are also common causes of motorcycle crashes. 

Sometimes, the at-fault party is not another driver but instead a company. For example, if a defective motorcycle part was responsible for the accident, then the manufacturer or retailer may be liable.

Personal injury attorneys experienced in motorcycle accident cases know how to evaluate the evidence and determine liability for a crash. If a negligent party is found to be responsible for your spouse’s death, you may be able to seek compensation on their behalf.

What Kind of Damages Can Be Recovered Through a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death claims are civil claims filed on behalf of a deceased person. They help surviving family members hold negligent parties accountable for the devastation their carelessness caused their family. A wrongful death claim may also help a grieving family shoulder the financial burden created by their loved one's passing.

When a claim is successful, the damages that can be recovered include:

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of future income that the deceased would have earned

• Mental anguish and emotional distress suffered by surviving family members

• Loss of companionship, love, and care

• Loss of inheritance

Contact Our Dallas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If your loved one died in a motorcycle wreck, the team at Jerry D. Andrews P.C. offer our sincere condolences. If you would like to discuss your legal options for holding the liable party accountable and recovering compensation, contact our Irving, TX motorcycle accident attorney at 214-221-5800 and set up a free consultation.

Source:

https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/motorcycles/