Unlike other drivers, motorcyclists have less protection from outside forces such as wind, rain, and snow. They also lack the metal frames that protect riders in case of an accident. It is no surprise that motorcyclists have a higher rate of severe injuries and fatalities than any group of drivers. Fatal motorcycle accidents in Woodbridge follow the national trend.
The sudden loss of a family member in a motorcycle accident can overwhelm the survivors. They still have to address the practicalities of daily life, such as paying bills and going to work. Navigating the legal system to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit may be more than the survivors can manage. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can ease a family’s burden by gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, or filing a lawsuit.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
Wrongful death claims are civil actions, allowing survivors of the deceased to seek compensation from responsible parties. The legal process helps reduce the survivors’ financial hardship. Only close family members, such as spouses or children, can file a lawsuit. The executor of the deceased estate can file a claim on their behalf.
To receive compensation, the family must prove the other drivers were negligent in executing their road safety responsibilities and their actions directly caused the fatal motorcycle accident.
What Is the Statute of Limitations?
Individuals must file personal injury claims, including wrongful death, within two years of the accident. Missing the deadline may prevent the court from recognizing the lawsuit. In some cases, a criminal charge for the same accident may delay the start of the civil trial.
What Compensation Is Available After a Deadly Motorcycle Wreck?
Wrongful death compensation includes economic and noneconomic awards such as:
Medical Expenses
Responsible parties may compensate families for accident-related medical expenses incurred before death.
Future Lost Income
If the deceased was employed, the loss of future income will impact the survivors. Families can recover this economic loss. A knowledgeable attorney can help family members calculate the loss of future income.
Funeral Costs
In Woodbridge, family members can seek compensation for funeral and burial costs from a fatal motorcycle accident.
Pain and Suffering
The deceased family not only faces financial losses, but they also suffer emotional losses. They will experience what is called the loss of companionship. Lawyers can help establish a monetary value to the family’s pain and suffering. In some instances, responsible parties compensate the family for the deceased’s pain and suffering before death.
Because every fatal motorcycle accident case is different, compensation settlements also differ. A dedicated legal team can help assess damages and pursue compensation that is vital to the future of the surviving family members.
Establishing Negligence for a Motorcycle Collision
Proving negligence requires collecting evidence, taking witness statements, and consulting experts to build a strong wrongful death case. Often, this process takes place well after the accident occurred. Making a successful case requires:
- Witness statements
- Police accident reports
- Medical history, diagnosis, and treatment records
Juries may need accident reconstructionists to help them understand the accident’s dynamics. An experienced attorney can ease the burden grieving families in Woodbridge must carry in the aftermath of fatal motorcycle accidents.
Get the Help You Need for Motorcycle Accident Fatalities in Woodbridge
If you have lost a loved one because of someone’s negligence, schedule a free consultation with Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC. Our legal team will work tirelessly to secure compensation for fatal motorcycle accidents in Woodbridge, giving you the support you need during this difficult time.
