Pursuing Justice After a Fatal Car Accident in Ogden

If your loved one’s death was caused by negligence, you may have a wrongful death claim. Call an Ogden wrongful death lawyer at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks at (801) 500-4000 for legal guidance.

Losing a loved one in a car accident is an unimaginable tragedy, and we want you to know that you have our heartfelt support. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our Ogden wrongful death lawyers understand the deep grief and confusion you might be feeling. We aim to help you find answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and seek the financial support you need to cope with your loss.

In this article, we will walk you through the process of pursuing justice after a fatal car accident in Ogden. We will explain how accidents are investigated, how liability is determined, and what steps are involved in filing a wrongful death claim. You will also learn how our firm can provide support during this difficult time.

How We Investigate Fatal Car Accidents in Ogden

In fatal car accidents, the first step is to figure out exactly what happened. This is especially important if you need to pursue a wrongful death claim later on.

When you come to Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we start by gathering all the evidence available. This can include:

• Police Reports: The police report often provides initial details about the crash scene, witness statements, and whether any driver was cited for traffic violations.
• Witness Interviews: People who saw or heard the collision can give us vital clues about who might have been at fault.
• Vehicle Inspections: By examining the cars involved, we can look for signs of mechanical failures, like faulty brakes or airbags.
• Accident Reconstruction: Sometimes, we work with experts who use scientific methods to reenact the crash. This can reveal aspects of speed, braking, and vehicle positions.

Establishing Liability in a Fatal Car Accident

Establishing liability is about proving which person or party bears legal responsibility for the fatal accident. 

In many Ogden car crash cases, liability might fall on another driver who was speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence. But it can also involve other parties, such as:

• Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect in the car’s design or production caused the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
• Government Entities: Poorly maintained roads, faulty traffic signals, or lack of proper signage might shift some responsibility onto the city, county, or state.
• Employers: If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the crash, their employer might share liability under certain conditions.

To establish liability, we gather and analyze all relevant evidence, from photos of the scene to any available surveillance footage. We also review driving records, cell phone records, or any other documents that can shed light on the at-fault party’s actions. 

Once our Ogden wrongful death lawyers have compiled our findings, we present them to insurance companies or, if needed, to a court. Our goal is to show that your loved one’s death resulted from someone else’s negligence or wrongful act.

Legal Process for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Ogden

In Ogden and across Utah, you must follow certain rules to file this type of claim correctly.

Who Can File a Claim

In Utah, the personal representative (or executor) of the deceased’s estate typically files the wrongful death claim. Surviving family members like spouses, children, and sometimes parents can be beneficiaries of any recovered damages.

Statute of Limitations

You usually have a limited amount of time, often two years from the date of death, to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline might mean losing your right to seek compensation.

Types of Damages

Through a wrongful death claim, you could receive compensation for medical bills related to the final injury, funeral and burial costs, lost wages the deceased would have earned, and pain and suffering. Though no money can truly compensate for your loss, these funds can help ease the financial strain.

Negotiations and Possible Trial

Once a claim is filed, there may be negotiations with insurance companies. Many cases are settled out of court, but if a fair agreement cannot be reached, we may recommend taking your case to trial.

Fatal car accidents leave families grieving and struggling with unexpected expenses. We have won significant wrongful death settlements, helping families find closure and financial security. If you’ve lost a loved one, we’ll fight for the justice they deserve.

How Our Firm Supports Families Through the Legal Process

Dealing with a wrongful death claim is about more than just paperwork. It is also about providing emotional support and ensuring you are treated with compassion and respect during this difficult time. Here is how we at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks help:

• Compassionate Communication: We know you are grieving. We keep our discussions clear, respectful, and caring, explaining every step so you never feel left in the dark.
• Full Investigation: We work swiftly to collect all evidence and build a strong case. By handling the complex parts of the investigation, we free you from additional stress.
• Collaborative Approach: We encourage you to share any concerns or questions at any stage. You are part of our team, and your insights can be crucial to understanding the full scope of your loss.
• Negotiation and Representation: Insurance companies might not always prioritize your best interests. We negotiate firmly on your behalf and, if necessary, represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve.
• Community Resources: Beyond legal help, we can guide you toward local support groups, grief counselors, or other community resources in Ogden to aid in your healing process.

Our firm is committed to helping you navigate every part of this journey with sensitivity and skill. We understand that pursuing justice can provide a sense of closure, and we want to ensure you have the guidance you need to make informed decisions.