North Carolina Wrongful Death Lawyer
Have you lost a loved one? Was someone else at fault? We understand that the loss of a loved one is one of the most tragic and difficult things to experience. Although pursuing a claim against the at-fault party may be the last thing on your mind, insurance companies will not wait to begin investigating the claim and building their case. We help grieving families by doing what needs to be done to preserve potential claims. This allows our clients to be able to focus on themselves and their families.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
In North Carolina, a wrongful death claim may arise when a person’s death is caused by the negligent act of another person. Wrongful death claims often arise as a result of:
- Auto Accidents
- Tractor-Trailer Accidents
- Nursing Home Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Bicycle Accidents
- Pedestrian-Auto Accidents
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Slip and Fall Accidents
How are Wrongful Death Claims Different?
Wrongful death claims are different from other personal injury claims in many ways including:
- WILLS: If there is a will and an executor is named in the will, then the executor is the person who will bring the wrongful death claim; if there is not a will, it will be up to the Clerk of Court in the county where the deceased resided to appoint an estate administrator who will then have the authority to bring the claim.
- STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS: While most injury claims in North Carolina have a three-year statute of limitations, wrongful death cases in North Carolina have a two-year statute of limitations, which means you have a lot less time to make the claim.
- DAMAGES: Wrongful death claims take into account not only economic damages (such as medical and funeral expenses) and pain and suffering, but also what the deceased meant to his or her family members, both finally and emotionally.
- WRONGFUL DEATH STATUTE: There is a statute that specifically addresses wrongful death, so familiarity with the statute is important.
What Damages are Included?
Each case is unique, but the damages in a wrongful death claim often include both economic and non-economic damages. Examples of economic damages include medical bills, medication expenses, funeral expenses, and more. Non-economic damages include things such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship, among others.
Do I Need an Attorney?
Because wrongful death claims are so different from other personal injury claims, it is important to work with an attorney who is experienced in handling wrongful death claims and is familiar with the wrongful death statute. At Paynter Law, we have the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of your wrongful death case with care and compassion. Your first consultation with us is free. Additionally, we work on a contingency fee basis, so if we aren’t able to recover anything for you, you don’t owe us attorneys’ fees.
You don’t have to do this alone. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.