The loss of a loved one is always heartbreaking, but losing someone because another person was negligent or used poor judgment is especially devastating. Families dealing with wrongful death often face emotional and financial hardships that can feel impossible.
At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and helping families in Baton Rouge secure the compensation they need. With decades of experience and a commitment to treating every family with dignity and respect, we’re here to help you through this difficult time.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to take legal action when their loved one’s death was caused by someone else. Here are some of the ways a wrongful death can happen:
- Car Accidents: Fatal crashes caused by reckless driving, drunk driving, or distracted driving
- Workplace Incidents: Accidents in high-risk work environments, such as construction or offshore work
- Medical Malpractice: Negligence by healthcare providers, including surgical errors or misdiagnoses
- Defective Products: Dangerous or malfunctioning products that cause fatal injuries
- Other Preventable Incidents: Slip-and-fall accidents or inadequate/negligent security leading to violent crimes
Each case requires a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident and who is responsible. Consulting with an experienced Baton Rouge wrongful death lawyer is critical to this process and the outcome of your claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?
Louisiana’s law strictly outlines who can file a wrongful death claim. The right to file follows this specific order of priority:
- Spouse and children: The deceased’s immediate family members have the first right to file.
- Parents: If the deceased had no surviving spouse or children, their parents may file a claim.
- Siblings: If no spouse, children, or parents survive, the deceased’s brothers and sisters may pursue the claim.
- Grandparents: If no spouse, children, parents, or siblings are alive, the deceased’s grandparents may file.
More distant relatives, such as cousins, aunts, and uncles, are not eligible to file a wrongful death claim under Louisiana law.
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Wrongful Death Case?
Surviving family members may be entitled to the following types of compensation:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: To cover the costs of memorializing your loved one and laying them to rest
- Medical Bills: For any medical treatment the deceased received before passing
- Lost Wages and Benefits: Compensation for the financial support your loved one would have provided
- Loss of Companionship: Addressing the emotional void left by your loved one’s absence
- Survival Action Damages: Damages for the emotional and physical pain endured by the deceased before their death
At Dudley DeBosier, we make sure that every type of loss is accounted for in your wrongful death claim.
How Dudley DeBosier Can Help You Through This Difficult Time
Losing a loved one is one of the most heartbreaking experiences anyone can face. One of the most vulnerable positions you’ll ever be in is when your loved one’s death was caused by someone else. At Dudley DeBosier, we provide compassionate, personalized legal support to help ease your burden. Our team will:
- Investigate Thoroughly: We gather crucial evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert analyses, to build a strong case.
- Identify All Liable Parties: We ensure every responsible party, from negligent drivers to product manufacturers, is held accountable.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies: We fight to secure fair settlements that address the full extent of your loss.
- Prepare for Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our lawyers will take your case to court to fight for you there.
We handle every aspect of the legal process so you can focus on grieving and healing.
Why Choose Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers?
At Dudley DeBosier, we understand that you need more than just legal representation. You need a team that empathizes and cares about your family’s well-being. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proven Track Record: We’ve recovered significant verdicts and settlements for families throughout Louisiana.
- Experienced Team: We have nearly 200 dedicated team members, bringing extensive legal knowledge to every case.
- Client-Centered Approach: We treat every client like family by taking the time to understand their unique needs and stories.
- Contingency Fee Policy: Our fee is contingent on outcome, which ensures that you can focus on your recovery while we focus on getting you the compensation you need.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Baton Rouge
In Baton Rouge, wrongful deaths often result from:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Fatal crashes on I-10, I-12, or other major highways caused by speeding, impaired driving, or distracted driving
- Workplace Accidents: Incidents in industries like construction, petrochemical work, or offshore operations
- Medical Errors: Fatal medical mistakes by healthcare providers at local hospitals or clinics
- Defective Products: Dangerous consumer goods or malfunctioning equipment leading to fatal injuries
- Violent Crimes: Deaths resulting from preventable criminal acts due to inadequate security or other negligence
Each of these scenarios presents unique challenges and requires a tailored legal strategy to uncover the truth and secure justice for grieving families.
Contact Dudley DeBosier: Baton Rouge Wrongful Death Lawyers
If you’ve lost a loved one because someone else was negligent, please don’t face this difficult time alone. Dudley DeBosier is here to provide the legal support you need to secure the compensation your family deserves. Contact us today for a free consultation.
