Topeka Wrongful Death Lawyers
Advocating for Your Surviving Family's Rights
Losing a loved one due to negligence or careless behavior is devastating to the family and something which should be investigated, especially in the event of a preventable accident. At Ralston, Pope & Diehl, LLC, we understand that this is an extremely emotional time for you and your family.
If the negligent or reckless behavior of another was responsible for the loss of your family member, it is important that you retain our legal services to discuss your legal options in seeking compensation for your loss.
Call our office today at
(785) 200-9465 for a confidential appointment
with a
compassionate and experienced wrongful death lawyer in Topeka.\
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful deaths can occur in various circumstances, each with its unique set of challenges. Our experienced attorneys at Ralston, Pope & Diehl, LLC, handle a wide range of wrongful death cases, including:
- Car Accidents: Negligent drivers, defective vehicles, or treacherous road conditions can precipitate tragic car accidents resulting in f fatalities.
- Medical Malpractice: Within the medical domain, errors in diagnosis, treatment, or surgical procedures can give rise to wrongful death cases, warranting legal scrutiny.
- Workplace Accidents: Fatalities in the workplace may stem from unsafe conditions, inadequate training, or equipment failures, necessitating a thorough examination of liability.
- Product Liability: Defective products or insufficient warnings can be catalysts for fatal accidents, placing manufacturers or distributors under legal responsibility.
- Premises Liability: Property owners can be held accountable for fatalities arising from dangerous conditions on their premises, including inadequate security or unsafe structures.
When Can You File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Kansas, the statute of limitations to file a claim is two years from the date of death. It is important to note that the date of your loved one’s death may be different from the date an accident or injury occurred.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
The immediate surviving family members of someone who has passed away can pursue a claim if they believe that negligence was the cause of a preventable accident which took their loved one's life. According to Kansas law "any one of the heirs at law of the deceased" may file a wrongful death claim.
Most commonly an heir is a:
- Spouse
- Child
- Parent
- Grandparent
- Sibling
Recoverable Damages in Wrongful Death Claims
Families grappling with the aftermath of wrongful death may be eligible for various forms of compensation to alleviate the ensuing financial burdens. While acknowledging that no financial reparation can replace the loss of a loved one, seeking damages becomes a crucial aspect in addressing the challenges ahead. Potential recoverable damages include:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Compensation to cover the substantial costs associated with laying a loved one to rest, acknowledging the financial strain on the grieving family.
- Lost Income: Financial support that the deceased would have contributed to the family, serving as a crucial element in the economic aspect of recovery.
- Loss of Companionship: Acknowledging the emotional toll exacted by the loss of a family member, compensation is sought to address the intangible yet profound impact on the surviving family members.
- Pain and Suffering: Recognizing the emotional distress and suffering endured by the deceased before their passing and seeking damages serves to address this aspect of the tragedy.
- Punitive Damages: In cases characterized by extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, the court may deem it necessary to impose punitive damages to punish the responsible party.
How Ralston, Pope & Diehl, LLC Can Help
With more than 130+ years of collective experience and a reputation in the community for our commitment to our clients' success, we have the knowledge and resources you need on your side. We are compassionate and do not take shortcuts that may undermine your case.
You can rely on us to work with you to help recover compensation and pursue justice on behalf of your loved one. While a case of this nature may not eliminate your grief, it can give you the financial help you need.
Call our firm today at (785) 200-9465 to request a free case consultation with a Topeka wrongful death attorney.