Stay on Time: What to Do When Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
If you recently lost a loved one, even though you know you deserve compensation, you may have too much on your mind to consider a wrongful death action. The problem with this line of thinking is that most think they have time to bring a claim. The truth is that you should go through the process as quickly and timely as possible. Otherwise, you could miss important deadlines or go beyond the statute of limitations.
Talk to a Lawyer
When filing a wrongful death claim, it is important that you talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. There is a statute of limitations and you need to work in a timely manner to file the lawsuit. Most states say that you have two or three years to file a claim. However, this can vary based on state and circumstances. For some states, you have from the date of the death to file. Whereas other states allow you to file within two or three years of finding out that there was a responsible party for your loved one’s death.
Gather Evidence
In order to streamline the process, it helps to have all of the necessary evidence before you file your claim. Any proof that you have that can point at a negligent party as responsible for the death is important. Your lawyer can help you determine the best evidence and also build a strategy based on that evidence.
Mind Your Deadlines
If you have a lawyer, this step will be a lot easier for you. Your lawyer will keep track of important dates when it comes to litigation. Often, your lawyer will file important documents with the court for you. When you’re mourning the loss of a loved one, it can be difficult to focus on your case. You cannot always remember the dates that you have to meet. Regardless of your strategy for dealing with deadlines, it is crucial that you abide by each one or else it can have a devastating impact on your case.
There is a statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. They vary from state to state, but on average the statute of limitations is around two to three years after you suffered the loss. It is important, however, that you work as quickly as possible because sometimes evidence is stronger when you put it together in the beginning. For help with your wrongful death claim, set up a consultation with a wrongful death lawyer, like a wrongful death law firm in Indianapolis, IN, today.
Thank you to the experts at Ward & Ward Law Firm, for their insight into personal injury law.