Losing a loved one is never easy, but it can be especially devastating when someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing may have caused their death. If you suspect wrongful death, it’s important to take action and seek justice for them.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take as a family member or friend of the deceased to ensure that their rights are protected, and those responsible are held accountable. From gathering evidence to finding legal representation, we’ve got everything you need to know about what to do if you suspect wrongful death in Phoenix.
What Is a Wrongful Death and Who Can File for a Claim?
If you think someone you know has died because of the carelessness or recklessness of another person, company, or government agency, you may have a wrongful death claim.
To have a successful wrongful death claim, you must show that the negligence of another caused the death and that it resulted in damages. For example, if a loved one dies in a car accident because the other driver was speeding, you may have a wrongful death claim against that driver.
A wrongful death claim can be brought by the deceased person’s spouse, child, or parent. An experienced wrongful death attorney will be able to help you determine whether you have a claim and how to proceed with your case.
Inform the Authorities and File a Report
The death of a loved one is always difficult, but it can be especially hard when the death was sudden and unexpected. If you suspect someone else’s negligence or recklessness caused your loved one’s death, you may wonder what to do next.
In Phoenix, Arizona, the first step is to inform the authorities and file a report. You can do this by contacting the police department or the county coroner’s office and telling them about your suspicions. They will likely want to speak with you in person and may ask for copies of any evidence you have, such as medical records or eyewitness statements.
Once you have filed a report, the authorities will investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death. This may include interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and conducting autopsies.
If they determine that foul play was involved, they will file a criminal case against those responsible. It’s important to note that a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil case separate from any criminal case, and you can sue even if there are no criminal charges filed.
While it can be difficult to deal with the suspicion and uncertainty of wrongful death, knowing that you have taken action to seek justice for your loved one can bring some measure of peace during this difficult time.
Gather Evidence and Document Everything
If you suspect that a loved one has died as a result of wrongful death, it is important to take immediate action to gather evidence and document everything. You will need to work with an experienced wrongful death attorney to build a strong case and prove that the death was caused by another party’s negligence or intent to harm.
Some of the evidence that you will need to gather includes:
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Eyewitness statements
- Photographs or videos of the scene
- The decedent’s personal belongings
Documenting everything related to the case is important, including all conversations with witnesses, lawyers, and insurance companies. Keep a detailed journal of everything that happens during this difficult time.
Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney
If you suspect that a loved one has died because of someone else’s negligence, it is important to contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you investigate the circumstances surrounding the death and determine whether or not you have a case.
Wrongful death cases are complex and can be emotionally devastating for those left behind. A knowledgeable attorney will guide you through the process and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Notify the Insurance Company
If you suspect that someone you know has died as a result of wrongful death, it is important to notify the insurance company as soon as possible. The insurance company will need to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, and they may need to contact the police or other authorities.
If you have any evidence that suggests that the death was not natural or accidental, be sure to share this with the insurance company. This could include witness statements, video footage, or anything else that could help support your claim.
The insurance company will likely want to speak with anyone close to the deceased, so be prepared to provide contact information for friends and family members. It is also important to gather any documents or records that might be relevant to the case, such as medical or financial documents.
Once you have notified the insurance company, they will investigate the matter. If they determine enough evidence to support a wrongful death claim, they will work with you to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties.
Seek Support and Counseling
If you have lost a loved one in Phoenix and suspect it was due to wrongful death, it is important to seek support and counseling. The grief process is difficult, and you may feel overwhelmed. There are many resources available to help you through this tough time.
Some things you can do to ease the grieving process include:
- Reach out to friends and family for support.
- Seek professional counseling. Talking with a counselor can help you work through your emotions and start the healing process.
- Join a support group. There are often groups available for those who have experienced a wrongful death in the family. This can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you are going through.
- Take care of yourself. Be sure to eat healthy, exercise, and get plenty of rest. It is important to take care of yourself during this difficult time.
Seek Help From Phoenix Wrongful Death Lawyers
If you or a loved one have experienced the unfortunate and unexpected loss of a family member due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another, we are here to help. With the help of an experienced Phoenix wrongful death lawyer from Phoenix Injury Lawyers, you can fight for justice and secure the compensation your grieving family deserves.
No matter your situation, contact us as soon as possible. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling wrongful death cases and can provide compassionate and knowledgeable legal counsel throughout every step of your case. We understand that no amount of money can compensate for such a painful loss, but we can help ensure your family’s financial future is secured.
It’s important not to hesitate if you think you have a valid wrongful death claim. Time is of the essence in this type of case, so don’t wait. Call us at 480-405-5010 today to get started on your case with an experienced Phoenix wrongful death lawyer from our firm.