Elements of a Wrongful Death Case

by coxonesearch on May 20, 2022

Death is devastatingly permanent. And the loss of a loved one hurts regardless of what caused the death. But when a life is ended because of someone else’s actions–intentional or negligent, it adds a little extra insult to the injury.

In Tulsa, a wrongful death claim can help grieving families pay for final expenses, recoup lost income or benefits from the deceased, and more. While there is no financial compensation that will make up for the loss of life, we can help you put a number on the financial impact of that loss.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

The definition of ‘wrongful death’ varies by state. In Oklahoma, it refers to a death caused by the wrongful act or omission of another person. This could be interpreted to be an intentional and possibly criminal act or a negligent act.

Imagine if your spouse faithfully went to work every single day in a factory that knowingly exposed its employees to toxic levels of radiation without disclosure or appropriate personal protective equipment.

While this is less common since the formation of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), it still happens. While your spouse is earning a living, they are slowly losing their health. They may suffer a myriad of symptoms like chronic headaches or fatigue but be unable to put a finger on the exact cause.

Eventually, your spouse is diagnosed with an inoperable tumor and is forced to stop working. You both endure months of intensive, deteriorating care that eventually ends in the (likely preventable) death of your spouse.

Through a series of medical tests, you discover that your spouse was routinely exposed to toxic levels of radiation. Additionally, you learn of two other cases where employees at the same facility have been treated for radiation poisoning. And now that their sickness has progressed beyond life-saving measures, you finally know what’s behind your spouse’s ailment.

Throughout this ordeal, you’ve not only lost the time you’ve spent caring for an ailing spouse, but you’ve lost money on healthcare needs, as well as earning potential for both of you. Your spouse died and you may have given up your ability to work to care for them. 

All of this pain and suffering is caused by an employer who failed to ensure a safe working environment. Shouldn’t that employer face some consequences for their negligence?

That’s where wrongful death claims come in. We can use the law to hold a negligent employer accountable, winning appropriate compensation for a wrongful death event.

The most common types of wrongful death claims include:

  • Fatal Car Accidents
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Work-Related Accidents
  • Defective Products
  • Tractor-Trailer Accidents
  • Pedestrian Accidents
  • Aviation Accidents

When Do You Need a Wrongful Death Lawyer?

In Tulsa, time is short for wrongful death cases. You’ll need to find a qualified lawyer for wrongful death claims quickly. The statute of limitations is just two years in Oklahoma, meaning that you may not have a case if you wait too long.

Contact the knowledgeable attorneys at Richardson Richardson Boudreaux to discuss your case as soon as you have reason to believe that someone is at fault for an untimely death, even if your loved one is not yet deceased. Once you or a loved one receive a terminal diagnosis or become aware of the knowledge that identifies an at-fault party, it’s time to act. A strong case takes time to build.

Consider reaching out to our wrongful death lawyers if your spouse, child, or immediate relative:

  • Was killed by a drunk driver.
  • Died as the result of a medical error.
  • Was crushed to death by machinery at work.
  • Died from a head injury caused when a faulty product malfunctioned.
  • Was hit by a tractor-trailer. 
  • Died in a plane or helicopter crash.

Work with a Reputable Tulsa-Area Wrongful Death Law Firm

Nothing can ease the burden of grief when your family suffers a tragic loss. However, the right attorney can help you get a fair financial settlement to ease the monetary burden of burying your loved one. Wrongful death suits are often ripe with raw emotion. Our skilled team of legal professionals is acutely experienced in helping bring some relief to grieving families.

We’ve helped dozens of hurting families get bigger settlements in less time with diligent preparation and a thorough knowledge of the law. When you need legal help, you need a law firm that is committed to providing supportive, compassionate care while strategically working to represent your needs. And that’s exactly what you get with the dedicated team at Richardson Richardson Boudreaux.

We represent the immediate family or estate benefactor in the event of a legally defined wrongful death.

Get the Legal Support that You Need to Make Sense of the Law During a Confusing Time

Contact the legal team Richardson Richardson Boudreaux to discuss your wrongful death claim today.