Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Indiana
Losing a loved one due to someone else's negligence is devastating. While no amount of money can truly compensate for such a loss, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability and a sense of justice for the surviving family members. At Pathway Legal Group, we help families across Indiana navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims with compassion and experience.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim? A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought when a person’s death is caused by the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. These claims seek compensation for the financial and emotional losses suffered by the deceased’s family.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Indiana? In Indiana, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate typically files the wrongful death claim. Any recovered damages are distributed to the surviving spouse, children, or other dependents.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
Medical malpractice
Defective products
Workplace accidents
Dangerous property conditions
Acts of violence
Types of Damages Available in Wrongful Death Cases Compensation in a wrongful death claim may include:
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses related to the deceased’s final illness or injury
Lost wages and benefits the deceased would have earned
Loss of love, companionship, and guidance
Emotional pain and suffering for surviving family members
Special Considerations
Adult Decedent Without Dependents: Indiana law caps non-economic damages at a specific limit in these cases.
Child Wrongful Death Cases: Different rules apply for minor children under Indiana law.
Statute of Limitations: In Indiana, wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years of the date of death.
Challenges in Wrongful Death Cases Wrongful death cases can be complex and emotionally charged. Challenges may include:
Establishing clear evidence of negligence or wrongful conduct
Accurately calculating future lost income
Proving the impact on surviving family members' lives
An experienced wrongful death attorney can help navigate these difficulties and build a strong case.
How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we understand that wrongful death claims require a balance of aggressive advocacy and compassionate client support. With nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, we know how insurers evaluate and defend against these claims. We now use that insider knowledge to fight for families across every county in Indiana.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence, call Pathway Legal Group at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to justice and financial recovery during this difficult time.
