How To Resolve A Wrongful Death Case Involving A Wrong-Way Driver
Some of the deadliest accidents on the road involve crashes that involve two vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. In a situation like this, liability is usually very straightforward. However, it is still important to work closely with a wrongful death attorney if you are the family member of the victim.
Why a Wrong-Way Accident Might Have Occurred
In most cases, the driver made a mistake and accidentally drove on the wrong side of the road. The weather might have caused poor visibility, or the driver might have been under the influence of alcohol. Finding out how the accident occurred is an important part of holding the other party liable.
In some cases, the crash might have been caused by another party. While under construction, the roads might not be clearly marked, and the driver might not realize that they are going the wrong way. Or, the driver might lose control of the vehicle due to a defect. In this case, you may need to pursue a wrongful death claim against a different party.
The Investigation Into the Accident
A wrongful death attorney will immediately investigate the facts of the case to determine who is at fault. For instance, the other driver might claim that it was not possible to know they were going the wrong way, but your attorney may photograph the scene of the accident and show that there were clear signs indicating that the driver was going in the wrong direction.
Holding the driver responsible is essential because this is the best way to prevent future accidents like this from happening in the future. Therefore, you will need to speak with a wrongful death attorney about the compensation you will be able to receive for the wrongful death case.
Compensation for Wrongful Death
To receive compensation, you will need to have a particular relationship with the deceased and the relationship you must have varies from state to state. Therefore, you will want to ask an attorney who is licensed to practice in the state of the deceased whether you will be entitled to compensation for wrongful death.
Even though the other party passed away, this doesn't mean that they are not entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering they have experienced as well as other expenses. After successfully filing a wrongful death lawsuit or settling the case out of court, the compensation will become a part of the estate.
For more information, contact a local law firm, like Burnett and Williams.