Aurora Wrongful Death Lawyer
Losing a loved one when someone else’s negligence is to blame is an indescribable tragedy. You shouldn’t have to go through this pain and grief simply because someone else made an irresponsible decision. At Daniels & Scriven, P.C., our compassionate Aurora personal injury lawyers are here to help guide you through the process of seeking justice and accountability from those responsible for your loved one’s death.
We know that this is a difficult time in your life and that you’re facing an uncertain future. We are here to lift some of that burden from your shoulders during this challenging time. We provide compassionate legal support.
Call us today at (720) 863-6006 to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.
Why Should You Hire Daniels & Scriven, P.C. for Your Wrongful Death Case?
After a tragic loss, your priority should be healing and supporting your loved ones. Still, Colorado law limits the amount of time you have to take legal action to protect your rights and safeguard yourself and your family from the financial burdens this unexpected loss has caused your family. When you’re dealing with such a painful situation, you need support from a dedicated legal advocate.
At Daniels & Scriven, P.C., we focus exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death cases. This laser-sharp focus has enabled us to develop a comprehensive understanding of Colorado’s personal injury laws and establish relationships with insurance adjusters, judges, and expert witnesses. We have over 40 years of combined legal experience, so you can trust that you are in good hands. We have helped many families just like yours obtain the justice and financial accountability they were seeking. We have a track record of success that precedes us at the negotiation table and in the courtroom.
Our law firm provides personalized legal representation to each client. Unlike many firms, you will work directly with a personal injury lawyer from start to finish, rather than being passed off to a paralegal or a member of our support staff. We keep you apprised of the status of your case and promptly return phone calls. At every phase of the case, you will be treated with the respect and dignity that you deserve.
We can explain more about how we can help when you call us for a free case review.
What Is a Wrongful Death Case?
Colorado’s wrongful death statute explains that when a death is caused by negligence, unskillfulness, or criminal intent, certain family members can file a wrongful death claim to seek damages. If the decedent would have been able to file a personal injury claim based on the circumstances, this legal right survives and passes to their family or estate.
Wrongful death cases are distinct from criminal cases, which seek to punish someone whose actions constitute a crime. Wrongful death claims are civil cases that seek to hold the at-fault party accountable and seek financial redress for the harm they’ve caused.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Aurora, Colorado
Wrongful death cases can take many forms, but some of the leading causes of these deaths include:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Car, motorcycle, and truck accidents on I-225, E-470, and Colfax Avenue occur frequently, sometimes with tragic results. Our experienced lawyers can help if your loved one died in an accident caused by speeding, distracted driving, DUI, reckless driving, or negligence.
- Bicycle and pedestrian accidents: Pedestrians and bicyclists have little protection against the massive size and force of motor vehicles, which is why there are often catastrophic results when these vehicles collide with them.
- Slip and fall accidents: Slippery floors, falls from heights, and trips can sometimes lead to fatal injuries. We can seek compensation when property owners fail to maintain safe environments and those environments lead to fatal accidents.
- Workplace accidents: The construction, manufacturing, and transportation industries account for the majority of workplace accidents. However, a fatality on the job can occur in any workplace where worker safety is not prioritized.
If you would like to know whether you may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim, contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Case in Colorado?
Colorado law limits the parties who can file a wrongful death case and when they can take legal action. Eligible parties and when they can file include the following:
- Surviving spouse: The surviving spouse is the only one who has the right to file a wrongful death claim in the first year following the death.
- Children: In the second year, the decedent’s children and the surviving spouse can file the claim jointly or individually.
- Designated beneficiary of the estate: The designated beneficiary of the estate and the heirs of the decedent can file a wrongful death claim.
- Parents: If the decedent was a minor child, the parents can file a wrongful death claim.
- Siblings: If the decedent had no surviving spouse, no heir, and no designated beneficiary or if the decedent was an unmarried minor or unmarried without descendants or an unmarried adult without descendants and without parents.
Only one wrongful death action can be brought against a defendant, so eligible parties may need to coordinate if they are considering taking legal action.
Damages You Can Recover in a Colorado Wrongful Death Case
Colorado wrongful death actions can seek compensation for the following losses:
- Medical expenses for the treatment the decedent received before death
- Reasonable funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of benefits
- Emotional distress of surviving family members
- Grief, anxiety, and depression
- Loss of companionship, love, affection, guidance, and support
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Colorado Wrongful Death Case?
Colorado law requires that claimants file a wrongful death action within two years from the date of death. Some exceptions can extend or shorten this timeframe, so it’s critical to work with an experienced attorney who can help you take timely legal action.
Contact Our Aurora Wrongful Death Lawyers for Legal Assistance
If you lost a loved one due to the negligence of another party, the compassionate Aurora wrongful death lawyers with Daniels & Scriven, P.C. can help guide you through this difficult time. Contact us today online to learn about your legal rights and options.