Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyer

Top Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyer Fighting for Justice

Our experienced legal team is here to provide the support, guidance, and advocacy you need during this difficult time. Let Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing is an unimaginable tragedy. Families are left grieving while also facing unexpected financial burdens, from medical bills and funeral expenses to the loss of household income and support. 

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal accident caused by negligence, you may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial compensation. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our experienced Sandy wrongful death lawyers are dedicated to helping families navigate this difficult time with compassion and legal expertise. 

We understand that no amount of money can replace your loved one, but holding the responsible party accountable can provide financial security and a sense of justice. Contact our team of wrongful death lawyers today to learn how we can help you seek the compensation your family deserves.

Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyers Help Numerous Families Every Year

While exact statistics specific to Sandy are limited, statewide data provides insight into the prevalence of incidents leading to wrongful death claims:

• Traffic-Related Fatalities: Utah has seen a notable number of wrongful death claims arise when an individual’s death results from another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. In Sandy, Utah, these claims serve as a legal avenue for surviving family members to seek justice and compensation for their loss.
• Fatalities due to motor vehicle accidents: In 2022, there were an estimated 42,795 fatalities nationwide from motor vehicle crashes, with Utah contributing to this figure. This highlights the significant impact of traffic-related incidents on wrongful death cases in the state. 
• Medical Malpractice: Medical errors remain a concern, with numerous cases annually potentially leading to wrongful death claims. While specific numbers for Utah are not readily available, the issue is recognized nationwide.
• Workplace Accidents: Industries such as construction and manufacturing report higher instances of fatal workplace incidents, contributing to wrongful death statistics.

A Sandy wrongful death lawyer can help you determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.

Legal Framework in Utah

Under Utah law, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the “wrongful act or neglect of another.” This legal framework allows the deceased’s heirs or personal representatives to file a claim against those responsible.

Importance of Hiring a Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyer

Navigating a wrongful death claim involves complex legal procedures, including establishing negligence, calculating damages, and adhering to specific timelines. Engaging experienced legal counsel ensures that the rights of the deceased’s family are protected and that they have the best opportunity to receive just compensation.

Understanding the context and legal basis for wrongful death claims in Sandy is crucial for affected families seeking justice. Awareness of the prevalence of such incidents and the importance of professional legal guidance can aid in navigating this challenging process.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Sandy

Wrongful death occurs when an individual loses their life due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. These tragedies leave families grieving while also dealing with financial burdens, lost companionship, and the search for justice. 

Understanding the most common causes of wrongful death can help surviving family members recognize when legal action may be necessary.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

One of the leading causes of wrongful death claims involves car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. Fatal crashes are often the result of driver negligence, including:

• Speeding and reckless driving: Excessive speed reduces reaction time, increasing the likelihood of fatal collisions.
• Distracted driving: Texting, phone use, and other distractions can lead to deadly accidents.
• Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drug impairment drastically reduce a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
• Failure to yield to pedestrians or cyclists: Vulnerable road users often suffer fatal injuries when struck by vehicles.

Fatal accidents caused by negligent or reckless drivers may lead to a wrongful death claim on behalf of the victim’s family.

Medical Malpractice

Patients trust healthcare professionals to provide competent care, but medical errors are a leading cause of wrongful death. Some common examples include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, leading to untreated fatal conditions.
• Surgical errors, such as operating on the wrong body part or leaving surgical instruments inside a patient.
• Medication errors, including incorrect dosages or prescribing the wrong drug.
• Birth injuries that result in a newborn’s death due to medical negligence.

When a doctor, nurse, or hospital fails to meet the standard of care, resulting in death, families may pursue a wrongful death claim for medical malpractice.

Workplace Accidents

Many wrongful deaths occur due to unsafe working conditions. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation pose high risks for fatal injuries, including:

• Falls from heights due to lack of proper safety equipment.
• Exposure to toxic chemicals leading to fatal illnesses.
• Electrocution or machinery malfunctions that cause deadly accidents.

Employers must provide a safe work environment by following safety regulations and providing proper training. If an employer’s negligence leads to an employee’s fatal injury, the employee’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death claim or a workers’ compensation death benefit claim.

Defective Products

When a dangerous or defective product causes a fatal injury, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be held liable under product liability laws. Common examples include:

• Defective car parts, such as faulty brakes or airbags that fail to deploy.
• Unsafe pharmaceuticals, including drugs with undisclosed fatal side effects.
• Malfunctioning machinery that leads to fatal workplace accidents.

Companies have a legal duty to ensure their products are safe. If a defective product causes death, surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible company.

Criminal Acts and Intentional Violence

Wrongful death claims are not limited to accidents, they can also arise from intentional violence such as:

• Homicide or fatal assaults.
• Deadly shootings or stabbings resulting from reckless security failures.
• Negligent security, such as failing to prevent foreseeable violent crimes.

In addition to criminal charges, the victim’s family may file a civil wrongful death lawsuit against the perpetrator or any parties who failed to prevent the incident (such as a business or landlord with inadequate security).

Seeking Justice After a Wrongful Death

If your loved one’s death was caused by negligence or misconduct, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.  

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Utah?

When a loved one’s life is taken due to negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial compensation. 

However, not just anyone can file such a claim. Utah law clearly defines who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit and how the legal process works.

Under Utah Code § 78B-3-106, the following individuals are legally allowed to file a wrongful death claim:

The Heirs of the Deceased
Utah law prioritizes the deceased’s immediate family members when determining who can bring a claim. The eligible heirs include:

• The surviving spouse of the deceased.
• The surviving children, whether biological or legally adopted.
• The surviving parents, if the deceased had no spouse or children.
• The deceased’s stepchildren, if they were financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death.

The Personal Representative of the Estate
If the deceased left behind a will or estate plan, the personal representative (also known as the executor) can file the claim on behalf of the estate. This person is responsible for managing legal and financial matters, ensuring that any compensation awarded is properly distributed to the rightful heirs.

A Legal Guardian (If Applicable)
If the deceased was a minor or incapacitated adult, a legal guardian may be allowed to file a wrongful death claim on their behalf.

What Happens If There Are Multiple Heirs?

If there are multiple eligible heirs, Utah law allows one wrongful death claim to be filed on behalf of all heirs. The compensation awarded will be divided among the rightful beneficiaries through mutual agreement or as determined by the court.

When Can a Non-Family Member File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In some cases, a non-family member may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. For example:

• If the deceased left a will naming a non-relative as the executor, that person may file the claim on behalf of the estate.
• If the deceased had no surviving heirs, the court may appoint a legal representative to handle the case.

Can Distant Relatives File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Extended family members, such as siblings, aunts, uncles, or cousins, typically do not have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Utah unless they were legally appointed as the personal representative of the estate.

Why It’s Important to Consult a Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyer

Determining who can file a wrongful death claim can be complicated, especially in cases where there are multiple heirs or legal disputes over who should take action. Having an experienced wrongful death lawyer ensures that:

• The rightful family members are represented.
• The claim is filed correctly and within Utah’s statute of limitations.
• All damages and losses are fully accounted for in the lawsuit.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we provide compassionate legal guidance to families seeking justice for their loved ones. If you believe you have the right to file a wrongful death claim, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims in Utah

The statute of limitations refers to the time limit in which a wrongful death claim must be filed. In Utah, the law sets strict deadlines for filing these lawsuits, and failing to file within the designated timeframe can result in losing the right to pursue compensation. 

Understanding these deadlines is crucial for families seeking justice and financial relief after losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Utah?

Under Utah Code § 78B-2-304, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the individual’s death. However, if the claim is being filed against a government entity, the deadline is much shorter, requiring action within one year.

Exceptions to the Standard Two-Year Deadline

While the general rule is a two-year deadline, certain factors may alter or extend the timeframe in which a wrongful death claim can be filed. Below are some important exceptions:

Wrongful Death Involving a Government Entity – One-Year Limit

If the wrongful death occurred due to the negligence of a government entity (such as a city, county, or state agency), a notice of claim must be filed within one year. This may include cases involving:

• Fatal car accidents caused by government-owned vehicles (such as buses, police cars, or public works trucks).
• Unsafe road conditions that contributed to the accident (such as missing traffic signals or poorly maintained roads).
• Medical malpractice at a government-run hospital or clinic.

If a claim against a government agency is not filed within the one-year limit, the family may lose the right to seek compensation.

Discovery Rule – Delayed Awareness of Negligence

In some cases, families may not immediately realize that negligence caused their loved one’s death. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to start from the date when the family reasonably should have discovered that negligence contributed to the death. This situation commonly arises in:

• Medical malpractice cases, where a fatal misdiagnosis or surgical error is not immediately apparent.
• Toxic exposure cases, where a person may develop a fatal illness years after exposure to a hazardous substance (such as asbestos or chemical exposure at work).

Cases Involving Minors or Incapacitated Individuals

If the deceased’s primary heirs (such as children or dependents) are minors or legally incapacitated, the statute of limitations may be paused until they are legally able to file a claim. However, consulting with Sandy’s experienced wrongful death attorney is essential to understand how this exception may apply to a specific case.

Why Filing a Wrongful Death Claim Quickly Is Important

Even though the statute of limitations allows up to two years in most cases, starting the legal process as soon as possible is highly recommended. Here’s why:

• Preserving Evidence: Over time, evidence can be lost, destroyed, or altered. Witnesses may forget key details, and accident scenes may change.
• Stronger Negotiations: Starting the case early allows for a thorough investigation, which can strengthen negotiations with insurance companies or responsible parties.
• Avoiding Court Dismissal: If a lawsuit is filed after the deadline, the court will likely dismiss the case, preventing the family from recovering any compensation.

How a Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

Navigating statutes of limitations and legal deadlines can be complex and overwhelming, especially when grieving the loss of a loved one. A wrongful death attorney can:

• Ensure that the claim is filed before the statute of limitations expires.
• Investigate the wrongful death circumstances to determine any exceptions that may apply.
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies and liable parties.
• Provide compassionate legal support while fighting for the compensation the family deserves.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how difficult this time is for grieving families. If you believe you have a wrongful death claim, do not wait until it is too late. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take legal action before time runs out.

Compensation Available for Wrongful Death Claims

When a loved one dies due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, surviving family members may be entitled to financial compensation through a wrongful death claim. While no amount of money can replace a lost family member, compensation can help ease the financial burden left behind and provide a sense of justice. 

In Utah, wrongful death compensation covers both economic and non-economic damages, ensuring that families receive the support they need to move forward.

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate for financial losses resulting from the wrongful death. These are measurable expenses that directly impact the surviving family’s financial stability.

• Medical expenses: If the deceased received medical care before passing, compensation may cover hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and emergency treatment.
• Funeral and burial costs: Families can seek reimbursement for funeral services, cremation, burial expenses, and other related costs.
• Loss of income and future earnings: If the deceased was a primary provider, the family can claim compensation for the income they would have earned had they lived, including:
  • Lost wages from the time of injury to the date of death.
  • Future earnings and benefits the deceased would have provided.
  • Pension, retirement funds, and other financial contributions.
• Loss of household services: If the deceased contributed significantly to household tasks (e.g., childcare, home maintenance), compensation may cover the cost of hiring help.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages account for the emotional and psychological impact of losing a loved one. These damages recognize the intangible losses suffered by surviving family members.

• Pain and suffering of the deceased: If the victim endured pain before passing, compensation may be available for their suffering.
• Loss of companionship: Spouses may receive damages for the loss of emotional support, love, and partnership.
• Loss of parental guidance: Minor children can be compensated for losing a parent’s guidance, love, and care.
• Emotional distress and mental anguish: Surviving family members may recover damages for the emotional trauma caused by their loss.

Punitive Damages in Wrongful Death Cases

In some cases, if the wrongful death resulted from gross negligence, reckless behavior, or intentional misconduct, the court may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the family but rather to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future. Examples include drunk driving fatalities, intentional acts of violence, or corporate negligence.

Who Receives the Compensation?

Compensation awarded in a wrongful death case is typically distributed among the surviving heirs, which may include:

• The spouse of the deceased.
• The children (biological or legally adopted).
• The parents, if the deceased was unmarried and had no children.
• In some cases, stepchildren or legal guardians who were financially dependent on the deceased.

Maximizing Compensation with the Help of a Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyer

Wrongful death claims can be complex, especially when insurance companies or at-fault parties attempt to minimize payouts. An experienced wrongful death attorney can:

• Gather strong evidence to prove liability.
• Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
• Calculate full damages, ensuring the family receives the maximum compensation possible.

Our Firm’s Notable Results

Our Utah personal injury law firm has a strong record of achieving substantial verdicts and settlements for its clients, including:

• • $5 Million: Awarded in a wrongful death case involving an adult child

• $2.5 Million: Settlement after extensive litigation for wrongful death of an adult child

• $1.8 Million: Compensation obtained for a wrongful death claim

These results demonstrate the firm’s relentless commitment to advocating for injury victims and their families, ensuring they receive the justice and financial recovery they deserve.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we fight for families who have lost loved ones due to negligence. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

How Our Firm Assists Families with Wrongful Death Claims in Sandy

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct is an unimaginable tragedy. In addition to grief, families are often left with financial burdens, unanswered questions, and the emotional toll of seeking justice. 

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how overwhelming this process can be, and we are committed to helping families navigate wrongful death claims with compassion and legal expertise. Our Sandy wrongful death lawyers provide comprehensive legal support to ensure that surviving family members receive the justice and financial compensation they deserve.

Compassionate Legal Guidance from Start to Finish

Wrongful death claims can be legally complex, involving multiple parties, insurance companies, and strict deadlines. Our team of Sandy wrongful death attorneys offers personalized legal support tailored to each family’s unique situation. We begin by listening to your concerns, explaining your legal options, and ensuring you understand your rights. 

From filing the initial claim to negotiating settlements or taking the case to trial, we are with you every step of the way.

Thorough Investigation and Evidence Collection

Proving wrongful death requires strong evidence to demonstrate that another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions led to your loved one’s passing. Our legal team conducts a detailed investigation to build a solid case by:

• Reviewing medical records and autopsy reports to determine the exact cause of death.
• Analyzing police reports and accident scene evidence to establish liability.
• Gathering witness statements to corroborate the facts.
• Consulting with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, to provide expert testimony.

Collecting critical evidence early on strengthens your case and protects your family from insurance companies or opposing parties who may try to dispute liability or reduce compensation.

Handling Insurance Companies on Your Behalf

Insurance companies often prioritize their profits over the well-being of grieving families. They may offer lowball settlements or try to shift blame to avoid paying full compensation. 

Our firm handles all communications with insurance adjusters, ensuring that they do not take advantage of you during this difficult time. We:

• Negotiate aggressively to secure maximum compensation.
• Reject unfair settlement offers that do not fully cover your financial and emotional losses.
• Pursue litigation if necessary, ensuring that your family receives justice.

We aim to fight for the compensation you are entitled to, including medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Securing Fair Compensation for Families

Wrongful death compensation should reflect the full economic and non-economic impact of your loss. We help families pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses incurred before death.
• Funeral and burial costs.
• Loss of financial support and future income.
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased.
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support.

If gross negligence or reckless misconduct played a role in the death, we may also pursue punitive damages to hold the responsible party fully accountable.

Taking the Case to Court If Necessary

While many wrongful death claims settle out of court, some cases require litigation to achieve justice. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to:

• File a lawsuit and represent your family in court.
• Present compelling evidence and expert testimony.
• Argue for the highest possible compensation before a judge or jury.

Our firm is not afraid to take on powerful insurance companies or corporations to protect the rights of grieving families.

Providing Emotional and Legal Support

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we recognize that wrongful death cases are not just about financial recovery; they are about honoring your loved one’s memory and ensuring that justice is served. We provide compassionate legal representation, treating every client with dignity, respect, and care.

Our attorneys:

• Keep you informed throughout the legal process.
• Provide clear, honest legal advice tailored to your situation.
• Offer emotional support, helping families find closure and justice.

Let Our Team of Sandy Wrongful Death Lawyers Help You Seek Justice

If you have lost a loved one due to a wrongful death in Sandy, you do not have to face this difficult journey alone. Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks is here to guide and support you, ensuring that your family’s rights are protected. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims in Sandy

Wrongful death claims can be legally complex, and many families have questions about the process, what to expect, and how to pursue justice for their loved one. 

Below are answers to frequently asked questions that address additional aspects of wrongful death claims in Sandy that have not been covered elsewhere on this page.