San Antonio Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

Losing a loved one under any circumstances is one of the most devastating experiences families can endure. However, the situation is worse when you know the death could have been prevented had another driver acted more carefully. At The Aguirre Law Firm, PLLC our compassionate San Antonio car accident attorneys understand the emotional trauma and financial stress that often accompany an unexpected death. We can provide you with compassionate legal support so you have the space and time to grieve. Call us today at (210) 922-0808 for a free consultation with our fatal car accident lawyers in San Antonio.

Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents

Fatal car accidents can occur for the same reasons as those that only result in injuries, such as:

• Speeding: When drivers speed and get in accidents, the injuries tend to be more serious or fatal because the collision occurs at greater force.
• Drunk driving: Drunk driving impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, sometimes leading to fatal collisions.
• Drowsy driving: Rideshare drivers, truck drivers, and motorists who work night shifts may drive while tired, subjecting other motorists to the same dangers as drunk driving, as drowsy driving can also cause delayed reaction times and impaired judgment.
• Distracted driving: Drivers can cause preventable fatal accidents when they text, talk on a cell phone, eat, groom, or engage in other distracting activities while driving.
• Reckless driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic, running red lights, and road rage can lead to deadly collisions.
• Defective auto parts: Tire blowouts, brake failures, and other auto defects can cause fatal crashes.

Texas Wrongful Death Claims

In Texas, a person is liable for damages arising from injuries that cause another death under the state’s wrongful death statute if the injury was caused by that person’s or their agent’s “wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default.”

However, only certain people can file a Texas wrongful death claim, including:

• Surviving spouses
• Children (biological and adopted)
• The decedent’s parents

If no eligible family members file a wrongful death claim in San Antonio, the executor or personal representative of the estate can file a claim.

Damages in Texas Wrongful Death Cases

Eligible family members may be able to recover damages for the losses they experience as a result of the tragic accident. While no amount of financial compensation can ever make up for the loss of your loved one, a monetary award is the only way that a civil court can bring about some semblance of justice.

Wrongful death compensation may include the following:

• Funeral expenses and burial costs
• Lost earning capacity
• Lost inheritance
• Lost care, advice, and support
• Loss of love and companionship
• Mental anguish

Who Is Liable for San Antonio Fatal Auto Accidents?

Various parties could be held liable for your loved one’s fatal car accident. Some potential parties and legal theories to hold them responsible include the following:

• Negligent motorists for driving unsafely
• Trucking companies, which are responsible for the negligence of their drivers and their own failure to oversee operations
• Delivery services, if an accident occurred while the driver was on the clock
• Government entities that failed to properly maintain the road
• Auto part manufacturers who made defective products that contributed to the accident
• Mechanics that performed negligent repairs

Contact Our San Antonio Fatal Car Accident Attorneys Today

If you lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, state law limits the time you have to file a lawsuit to two years. Act quickly to preserve your rights and the evidence that can help prove your claim. Contact the San Antonio fatal car accident attorneys at The Aguirre Law Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation.