Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Salt Lake City, UT
Contact a law firm to learn how their motorcycle accident lawyer can help your family get some measure of justice in the aftermath of losing your loved one in a senseless accident. Motorcyclists are often vulnerable to negligent drivers despite their efforts to remain safe while on the road. And unfortunately, because motorcycles offer little to no protection for riders, they are subject to extreme injuries and even death through no fault of their own. Lawyers represent families who have lost their loved one due to the negligent actions of another person.
What is a wrongful death claim?
When a person dies in an accident or by an act of violence through no fault of their own, the victim’s heirs may have grounds for submitting a claim against the person responsible. With the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer, they can seek compensation for what is referred to as their damages. In most instances, it is the at-fault party’s insurance company that receives the wrongful death claim.
What are damages?
In the context of a wrongful death claim, damages refer to the losses experienced by the deceased and by their surviving heirs. These damages will be identified by the motorcycle accident lawyer and assess a value to each loss. The information will be included in the claim. Every case is different because of the unique circumstances involved. These are some common examples of damages from a fatal motorcycle accident:
- First responder medical attention (paramedic, emergency medical technician, etc.) and medical treatment.
- Emergency transportation (ambulance) to the hospital.
- Emergency room treatment including hospital bed.
- Surgery or surgeries.
- Medications.
- Pain and suffering.
- Medical supplies such as bandages, wheelchair, etc.
- Funeral costs.
- Burial costs.
- The amount of salary or hourly wages, vacation time, and bonuses that the deceased would have earned until the age of retirement had they not passed away.
What if the responsible party denies the wrongful death claim?
If the insurance carrier refuses to pay a settlement after receiving the claim, a motorcycle accident lawyer Salt Lake City, UT offers may recommend that you pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. This is usually not necessary as the negotiation process is often successful. However, in some instances, a lawsuit is the only recourse.
If our family wins a wrongful death lawsuit will the responsible party go to jail?
A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil matter which if successful may result in a financial award to the plaintiff. The defendant will have to pay the financial award but they will not be sentenced to jail or prison.
Contact Rasmussen & Miner for their insight into personal injuries and suing the guilty party for the death of a loved one in a motorcycle accident.