Did someone else’s negligence take the life of a loved one? If so, you may feel overwhelmed by grief, confusion, and uncertainty.
While nothing can undo your loss, you do not have to face this alone. At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we are here to support you during this difficult time. Our team can review your case and guide you through your legal options.
With over 100 years of combined experience, we have helped families recover millions of dollars since 1993. As your Prairieville wrongful death lawyer, we will fight for the justice and accountability your family deserves.
What Is Wrongful Death in Louisiana?
Under Louisiana law, a wrongful death occurs when someone dies because of another person’s actions. These actions may involve negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct.
In these cases, certain family members can file a civil lawsuit to recover damages related to the loss.
Common examples of wrongful death cases include:
- Fatal car accidents caused by reckless or distracted driving
- Workplace accidents linked to safety violations
- Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or missed diagnoses
- Defective or dangerous products
- Criminal acts, including assault or homicide
Even if no criminal charges are filed, you can still pursue a civil claim. This is because civil cases require a lower burden of proof than criminal cases.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Louisiana law sets a specific order for who can file a wrongful death lawsuit.
The following individuals may have the right to file:
- The surviving spouse and children
- The surviving parents, if there is no spouse or child
- The surviving siblings, if no spouse, child, or parent exists
- The surviving grandparents, if no closer relatives are available
In addition, adoptive family members have the same rights as biological relatives.
If the deceased was a minor, the parent with legal custody typically has the right to file.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Wrongful death claims in Louisiana must be filed within one year of the date of death.
If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation. Although some exceptions exist, courts apply them very narrowly.
Because of this, it is important to act quickly and speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Damages Available in a Wrongful Death Case
Families may recover different types of damages after a wrongful death. These damages usually fall into two categories: economic and non-economic losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover financial losses related to your loved one’s death. These may include:
- Loss of financial support
- Medical expenses before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of household services
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages reflect the emotional impact of your loss. These may include:
- Loss of companionship, love, and affection
- Loss of consortium for a spouse
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of guidance for children
The value of these damages depends on the details of your case and your relationship with your loved one.
Contact a Prairieville Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a family can face. You may feel unsure about what to do next or how to move forward.
However, you do not have to handle everything on your own.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping families seek justice and accountability. Our Prairieville wrongful death lawyers will stand by your side and guide you through every step of the process.
Contact us today to discuss your case. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin helping you pursue the compensation your family deserves.