Fatal Industrial Accidents: How a Wrongful Death Case Can Help Families When the Unthinkable Happens

If you’ve just lost a beloved family member in a workplace accident, you may be unable to think of what to do next. Wrongful death settlements can never come close to replacing loved ones lost in fatal industrial accidents. However, they may be able to bring some sense of justice while providing support to you and your family.

Overview of Industrial Accident Risks in Wyoming

Any job can be hazardous, but many Wyoming industries pose a disproportionate risk of fatal industrial accidents. These are some of our state’s most dangerous industries:

Construction

Working high above the ground and handling dangerous machinery are two of construction’s greatest risks. Companies that refuse to provide adequate safety equipment put their employees in even more danger.

Mining

Mining is an industry that puts its workers in constant danger of fatal industrial accidents. Mine explosions, unexpected cave-ins, and exposure to polluted air and toxic gases can lead to death.

Oil and Gas Industries

It’s possible to build a lucrative career in Wyoming’s oil and gas industries. However, these industries are also far more dangerous than average. Fires and explosions are a relatively common cause of death in oilfields, as are falls and accidents involving machinery and work vehicles.

Support for Grieving Families

Wrongful death suits aren’t solely about money — they’re about providing a grieving family with support and holding negligent parties accountable.

A wrongful death lawsuit may be able to cover your everyday expenses while you come to terms with your sudden and tragic loss. If your lost loved one was your family’s primary breadwinner, a jury verdict or settlement can support you while you find work.

Compensation Available

If you’re familiar with personal injury cases, you know that injured people can receive compensation to cover their medical care and make up for lost wages. Wrongful death settlements for fatal industrial accidents work somewhat similarly. If your case is successful, you may be able to recover damages like these:

Medical Expenses

Your loved one may not have ongoing medical expenses. However, if they received emergency medical care before their death, including expensive emergency life flights, you may be left with thousands of dollars in medical debt.

Recoveries from wrongful death cases may be able to cover these expenses so that you won’t be saddled with medical debt while also grappling with grief.

Burial and Funeral Costs

The cost of a funeral and burial can be significant, especially if it’s completely unexpected. A fair settlement can ensure you won’t face financial stress or go into debt just to bury a loved one.

Loss of Financial Support

Losing a loved one is always devastating. However, if your loved one was your family’s primary income source, you may find that your grief is compounded by financial insecurity. You may be able to recover compensation to make up for your loved one’s future earnings.

Loss of Companionship

Wrongful death settlements often acknowledge the overwhelming sense of loss you’re experiencing. In many cases, you can receive compensation for the loss of your loved one’s care, comfort, support and companionship.

The Role of a Law Firm

If you’re considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit, the first thing you should do is hire an attorney for industrial accidents. The Spence Law Firm team can assist with your case in a number of different ways:

• Investigating the specifics of your loved one’s accident
• Helping you navigate the workers’ compensation system
• Determining if you may be able to file a third-party liability claim
• Building a case on your behalf
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Taking your case to trial if necessary

You are not legally required to retain an attorney to file a lawsuit. However, in nearly every case, you’re more likely to receive a fair settlement if you work with an attorney than if you work alone.

Time Limits for Filing

If you’ve just lost a beloved family member in one of the worst possible ways, you may not feel ready to pursue a lawsuit. However, in Wyoming, you only have a limited amount of time to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

For wrongful death cases in Wyoming, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of death. Getting in touch with us as early as possible is the best way to keep your options open and preserve your chances of filing a successful claim.

FAQ

Is It Expensive to Work With a Wrongful Death Lawyer?

No. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay us if we obtain a recovery for your case.

Will You Take My Case?

At your free consultation, we can discuss your case with you and help you determine whether legal action is the best step to take together.

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Loved One’s Negligence Contributed to Their Death?

Usually, yes. Under Wyoming’s modified comparative negligence statute, you may not recover damages if your loved one was more than 50% at fault for the accident leading to their death. If they were 50% or less at fault, the compensation you receive will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Have You Lost a Loved One in an Industrial Accident?

The Spence Law Firm is dedicated to securing justice for injured people and those who have lost loved ones to the negligence of others. We have recovered more than $1 billion for our clients, and if we take your case, you can count on us to advocate tirelessly for you and your family. Call today or get in touch online for a free consultation.