At Cimarron Ridge Legal Group, we understand how devastating it is to lose a loved one in a car wreck or other accident. Many people feel as if the world is spinning as they worry about how they will support themselves and their families. Fortunately, Colorado law allows some family members to seek compensation in the form of a wrongful death claim. Although no amount of money can replace a lost loved one, compensation at least can provide peace of mind. Contact our firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
Colorado’s Wrongful Death Act Explained
This law applies when a person dies from injuries sustained in an accident. Although the victim passes, certain surviving family members have a right to hold the defendant accountable by bringing a wrongful death claim.
Our Durango wrongful death lawyers have brought claims whenever someone dies from the negligence, wrongful act, or default of another person. For example, many claims relate to:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Premises liability claims
- Dog bites or attacks
- Defective products
- Medical malpractice
These are civil suits, not criminal ones. And a defendant’s conduct does not need to be criminal so long as it is wrongful or negligent. For example, someone who plows into a pedestrian while texting behind the wheel of a moving vehicle might not be charged with a crime, but they might be sued for wrongful death.
Laws Related to Wrongful Death Claims
Our lawyers can thoroughly analyze the facts of your loved one’s death to determine your legal rights. Some important considerations include:
- Deadlines for filing a lawsuit. Any wrongful death claim must be brought within two years of your loved one’s death. This is the state’s statute of limitations. Wait too long and a judge can toss the case from court.
- Eligibility to file a claim. Only certain close relatives can sue. In the first year, a surviving spouse has the sole right to bring a claim. If there is no spouse, then surviving children can sue. Parents may bring a suit only if there is no spouse or surviving children.
- Available compensation. Our clients have sought money damages for a variety of losses, such as lost economic benefits, loss of consortium, loss of companionship, and out-of-pocket medical or funeral expenses.
These are complicated legal issues to analyze on your own. Ideally, family members should seek out experienced legal assistance as soon as possible.
The Benefits of Hiring a Durango Wrongful Death Attorney
Our firm can ensure that you meet all deadlines for filing a claim. We will also use our skills and experience to build a strong factual record in support of your case. For example, we might review police reports, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. This is a stressful time, and we are proud to do anything we can to reduce the burden our clients feel in the weeks and months following a loved one’s death.
Call Our Durango Wrongful Death Attorneys for Help
Cimarron Ridge Legal Group has the knowledge and skills needed to negotiate a favorable claim. To get started, call us at (970) 644-5194 or fill out our online contact form. All consultations are free and confidential.