Losing a loved one is tragic. The emotional devastation is immeasurable, and when that loss results from someone else’s negligence, anger, confusion, and the need for justice compound the pain. In these devastating circumstances, a wrongful death lawyer in Birmingham can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for the compensation and justice your family deserves.
At Riley & Jackson, P.C., we understand the profound grief that accompanies the wrongful death of a family member, and we are committed to holding the responsible parties accountable while working tirelessly to secure your future. Our unwavering dedication, experience, and passion for justice set us apart as Birmingham, Alabama’s best legal representation for wrongful death cases.
What is Wrongful Death?
In legal terms, wrongful death refers to a situation in which a person dies because of another individual, entity, or party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. Common examples include fatal car accidents, medical malpractice that leads to death, defective products, workplace accidents, or even criminal acts like assault or homicide that happen in public areas like apartment complexes.
When someone dies because of the wrongful act of another, the deceased’s personal representative can pursue legal action in Alabama against the responsible party. The personal representative can seek punitive damages, which in Alabama wrongful death cases are intended to preserve the dignity of human life.
Why Choose Riley & Jackson’s Birmingham Wrongful Death Lawyers?
When it comes to handling such a sensitive and complex case, you need a law firm that understands the emotional and legal intricacies involved. Our team is uniquely equipped to handle your case because we bring a combination of experience, resources, and unyielding work ethic to the table. Here is why our firm is the best choice for your wrongful death case in Birmingham:
Unmatched Dedication
Our attorneys at Riley & Jackson are relentless in our pursuit of justice for our clients. We will fight for your family and will never be outworked. We take the time to thoroughly investigate every detail, ensuring that we uncover all relevant evidence. We are committed to your case and will handle all legal proceedings on your behalf so you can focus on healing and supporting your family.
Experience with Complex Wrongful Death Cases
Wrongful death cases can be legally complicated. They often involve intricate elements such as proving liability, calculating damages, and determining how to handle insurance companies or other opposing parties.
Our firm has extensive experience with wrongful death lawsuits, including high-profile and complex cases, allowing us to approach your situation confidently. We recently received one of the nation’s top wrongful death verdicts with a $10 million award.
Personalized Attention for Every Client
One of the biggest challenges families face after losing a loved one is knowing where to turn for help. At Riley & Jackson, we treat each client like family. We will work closely with you throughout the entire process, making sure you understand every aspect of your case. If we determine that your case may not be actionable, we will still help you find the right resources and support.
A Reputation for Winning Cases
We have built a strong reputation in Birmingham and across Alabama for achieving successful outcomes in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Our track record of winning settlements and verdicts speaks volumes about our commitment and effectiveness. Our clients trust us because we have a history of standing up for them and winning.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Every Aspect of Your Case
When pursuing a wrongful death case, it is essential to consider every aspect of the damages your family has suffered. This includes the financial impact of losing your loved one and the emotional and psychological toll it takes on you and your family members. We work with medical and economic experts to account for every potential element of your claim.
We understand that no amount of money can ever replace a loved one, but proper compensation can ease some of the burdens and allow your family to begin rebuilding your life. We will help you fight for the full compensation that you are entitled to under Alabama law.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Alabama
Wrongful death cases arise from various accidents and incidents. Some of the most common causes of wrongful death claims include:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Accidents on the road are among the leading causes of wrongful death in Alabama, killing 986 individuals in 2022, according to the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). Whether caused by distracted driving, speeding, or drunk driving, fatal car crashes can have devastating consequences for families.
- Medical malpractice: Sometimes, medical professionals make mistakes that result in a patient’s death. Errors in diagnosis, surgical mistakes, or improper treatment can all lead to wrongful death.
- Workplace accidents: If unsafe working conditions or employer negligence take a family member’s life, their personal representative may have a valid wrongful death claim. Workplace fatalities often occur in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or transportation.
- Defective products: Sometimes, a faulty product can cause a fatal accident. Whether it is a defective vehicle, machinery, or a consumer product, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of the products they create.
- Criminal acts: In some tragic cases, such as in the case of our historical $10 million verdict, wrongful death results from violent crimes that take place in public areas that should have adequate security. While the criminal justice system may pursue charges against the responsible individual, a personal representative can file a civil wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation.
The Wrongful Death Process
A wrongful death lawsuit is a complex legal process that requires careful attention to detail. Here is a general overview of the process our wrongful death attorneys in Birmingham can help with:
- Investigation: We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death to gather evidence and identify the responsible parties.
- Filing a lawsuit: Once we have gathered sufficient evidence, we will file a lawsuit against the responsible parties.
- Discovery: During the discovery phase, both sides exchange information and evidence.
- Settlement negotiations: We will work to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Trial: If we cannot reach a settlement, the case will advocate for your loved one at trial.
Potential Damages in a Wrongful Death Case
In a successful wrongful death lawsuit, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Economic losses: This includes lost wages, medical expenses, and funeral costs.
- Non-economic losses: This includes pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and loss of consortium.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases, a judge or jury may award punitive damages to punish the defendant for egregious misconduct.
Do Not Wait to Act
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, it is crucial to act quickly. The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Alabama is typically two years, so it is critical to consult with our Birmingham wrongful death lawyers as soon as possible.
Contact Riley & Jackson Today
If you have lost a loved one due to another party’s negligence or wrongdoing, you deserve justice and compensation. We understand that no amount of money can ever replace the loss of a loved one, but we believe that justice and financial compensation can help ease the burdens left behind.
Our firm is committed to providing compassionate, personalized legal services while fighting for the justice your family deserves.
We are here to listen even if you are unsure whether you have a case. We can assess the circumstances of your loved one’s death and help you determine the best course of action. Let us be your champions during this challenging time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice for your loved one.