wrongful death lawyers

Wrongful Death Lawyers Indianapolis, IN

Providing Compassionate Assistance for Wrongful Death Matters in Indianapolis

Dedicated team of lawyers gives you the help you need

There’s nothing worse than losing someone close to you, especially if that person died due to someone else’s negligence. When you need to take legal action against the responsible parties, call upon a wrongful death attorney in Indianapolis. Our experienced attorneys, Don Ward and Charlie Ward, of Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, hold individuals, businesses and organizations accountable for their actions or negligence. After a wrongful death, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Common causes of wrongful death in Indiana

If another party is responsible for the death of someone close to you, you may be able to file a lawsuit for wrongful death and seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of financial support, funeral and burial costs, and loss of companionship. In some situations, you may also seek punitive damages to help prevent the same thing from happening to someone else in the future. The following are the most common causes of wrongful death in our state:

  • Auto accidents. Car crashes happen on Indiana’s roads and highways all the time, and many result in serious injury or death. Auto accidents occurring at high rates of speed or involving trucks or other large vehicles are more likely to be fatal.
  • Medical malpractice. When a doctor, nurse or other medical professional makes a significant error, the consequences could be deadly for the patient. Many wrongful death claims are the result of medical malpractice.
  • Nursing home neglect or abuse. Nursing home employees and doctors are held to a high standard of duty and responsibility to those entrusted to their care. When a medical caretaker or provider acts in a negligent or an abusive way that causes the death of a patient, the providers, may be held liable.
  • Negligence. Property owners and product manufacturers who fail to provide safe premises and products may be liable for wrongful death if a fatal accident occurs due to negligence.
  • Construction accidents. Construction sites are dangerous places, and while workers realize the hazards of their jobs, it’s the responsibility of their employers to provide a relatively safe work environment to prevent serious accidents.

Pursuing legal action after a wrongful death

According to Indiana law, spouses and dependents of the deceased may file a wrongful death lawsuit. In addition, only the personal representatives of an unmarried adult person with no dependents may take action against someone they believe caused the death. You must file a claim within two years of the incident that caused the death. A judge will determine the amount of compensation you receive unless you settle out of court. It’s important to note that the limit for damages is $300,000; even if a jury awards more, the court will likely reduce it to the maximum amount allowed under the law. Wrongful Death FAQs   If a person is killed as a result of another individual’s negligence or recklessness, the victim’s family can file a wrongful death lawsuit with the help of a wrongful death lawyers serving Indianapolis, IN. These lawsuits are not meant to “replace” the victim, but instead are meant to compensate the family for the tragic loss of their loved one. The compensation received can help the family with the financial loss the victim’s death has caused them. If your family has lost a loved one due to the actions of someone else, contact Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers in Indianapolis, IN to speak with one of our wrongful death lawyers. Under what circumstances can a family file a wrongful death lawsuit?   There are certain elements that must be met in order for a wrongful death claim to be made. These are:

  •    The victim died
  •    Their death was the result of negligence, recklessness, or harmful intent
  •    The victim’s family has suffered financial injury because of the death
  •    An appropriate family member or estate representative is willing to file the wrongful death lawsuit

What are the types of incidents where a wrongful death claim may be filed? Although there are countless situations where a Indiana family can bring forth a wrongful death lawsuit with the help of wrongful death lawyers in Indianapolis, IN, the most common include:

  •  Motor vehicle accident
  •  Medical malpractice
  •  Work-related accident or illness
  •   Exposure to hazardous or toxic substances
  •   Train or bus accident
  •   Criminal behavior

Does there have to be criminal charges filed against the at-fault party in order to file a wrongful death lawsuit? There are many cases where the party named in a wrongful death lawsuit also has criminal charges pending, however, it is not a requirement of a wrongful death lawsuit. And in cases where there are criminal charges, the family can still file a wrongful death lawsuit even if the criminal charges are dropped or the person is acquitted. One of the most famous examples of this type of case was the O.J. Simpson case. Simpson was found not guilty in criminal court for the murders of his ex-wife and her friend. But several years later, both families of the victims and their prevailed in civil wrongful death lawsuits when the jury awarded them millions of dollars, finding that Simpson was responsible for the victim’s deaths. In many cases, a wrongful death lawsuit award is the only justice the victim’s family have. However, keep in mind, you do not want to wait until the criminal charges have reached their conclusion to file a claim with a wrongful death lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, as every state has a statute of limitations as to how long the family has to file a wrongful death claim. Who can file a wrongful death claim? Each state has its own laws regarding who can file a wrongful death claim, however, in general, the order of survivors is:

  •  The spouse and children of the victim (or grandchildren)
  •   The parents of the victim
  •   The siblings of the victim (or nieces and nephews)
  •   Anyone who was financially dependent on the victim for support
  •   A representative of the victim’s estate (on behalf of the estate)

If you have any additional questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers and speak with team of experienced wrongful death lawyers in Indianapolis, IN.

Work with a compassionate team of Indianapolis attorneys

During this difficult time, you need a lawyer who works tirelessly to get results for you and your family. Don’t hesitate to call Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers today. You may also contact us online.We offer free initial consultations, and our office is conveniently located in downtown Indianapolis, just blocks from Lucas Oil Stadium.

10 Ways A Lawyer Can Help After Your Loss

Indianapolis, IN wrongful death attorneys can help you get the closure you need after the loss of a loved one. In such a difficult time, the team at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help.

Losing a loved one is among the most painful experiences one can endure. When that loss results from the negligence or misconduct of another party, the anguish is intensified. Seeking justice in such situations becomes paramount. Here’s why considering the expertise of Indianapolis wrongful death attorneys is vital in ensuring a just resolution.

  • Empathetic Approach

Grieving families need more than just legal advice. They need compassion, understanding, and genuine concern. Wrongful death attorneys have been trained to approach each case with sensitivity, ensuring the bereaved feel heard and supported.

  • In-Depth Legal Knowledge

The laws surrounding wrongful death can be intricate. Attorneys specializing in this area have a profound understanding of the applicable statutes, ensuring your claim is legally robust.

  • Experience In Negotiations

Insurance companies can be relentless in their attempt to minimize compensation. Armed with experienced attorneys, you stand a better chance of securing a fair settlement, ensuring the financial security of the deceased’s family.

  • Meticulous Investigation

Unearthing the truth requires a thorough investigation. From reviewing accident reports to interviewing witnesses, attorneys make sure every piece of evidence is accounted for, building a strong case for you.

  • Economic Damage Calculations

Wrongful death claims often encompass economic losses, from lost wages to funeral expenses. A knowledgeable attorney can accurately evaluate these damages, ensuring the family receives rightful compensation.

  • Non-Economic Damage Assessment

Beyond monetary losses, families face emotional distress, loss of companionship, and other intangible impacts. Wrongful death attorneys understand the depth of these traumas and work for just compensation in this regard.

  • No Upfront Costs

Most wrongful death attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. This means the family doesn’t bear any upfront costs, reducing financial strain during already trying times.

  • Efficient Case Resolution

Prolonged legal battles can be emotionally draining for grieving families. With a seasoned attorney, there’s a higher likelihood of expedited resolution, be it through settlement or court proceedings.

  • Expertise Of Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers

With a reputable firm like Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers by your side, you benefit from years of experience, a legacy of trust, and a consistent track record of favorable outcomes in wrongful death cases.

  • Guidance Through Legal Procedures

Legal proceedings can be daunting. From filing claims to court hearings, families need guidance every step of the way. Indianapolis wrongful death specialists provide this much-needed support, ensuring no procedural hiccup jeopardizes the case.

Get In Touch With Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers Today

Navigating the aftermath of a loved one’s wrongful death is challenging. While no amount of compensation can truly make amends, it’s essential to ensure that the family’s future is secure and justice is served. If you find yourself grappling with such a tragic circumstance, remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. Engage with professionals who are dedicated to your cause. For expert guidance and compassionate representation, contact our team of Indianapolis wrongful death attorneys today.

Charlie Ward
cpw@WardLawFirm.com
728 S Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46225
317-639-9501
888-639-9501

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Charles P. Ward

Attorney

Indianapolis personal injury lawyer and wrongful death attorney

Donald W. Ward

Attorney

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