Losing a loved one is devastating. When that loss results from someone else’s negligence, the grief becomes even harder to bear. A wrongful death lawyer can help your family pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
At Valley Injury Law, we understand what grieving families face. Our founding attorney, Travis Meltzer, spent years defending insurance companies. Therefore, he knows exactly how insurers try to minimize or deny wrongful death claims.
If your family is in Glendale or anywhere in the Greater Phoenix area, we are here to help. We offer free case reviews and work on a contingency basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Arizona?
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit. It allows surviving family members to seek compensation when a loved one dies due to another party’s negligence or misconduct.
Arizona law specifically defines who may file this type of claim. Generally, a personal representative of the deceased’s estate brings the action. The compensation recovered benefits the surviving spouse, children, and other dependents.
Wrongful death cases are separate from criminal proceedings. For example, a driver may face both criminal charges and a civil wrongful death lawsuit for the same incident. Both can move forward independently of each other.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Glendale
Wrongful death can arise from many types of accidents and incidents. Some of the most common causes we see in Glendale and across the Phoenix metro include:
- Car accidents caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless drivers
- Truck accidents involving large commercial vehicles on highways like the I-17 or Loop 101
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents at busy intersections throughout Glendale
- Slip and fall accidents on dangerous properties
- Dog attacks resulting in fatal injuries
- Motorcycle accidents caused by negligent drivers
Each situation is unique. However, the common thread is that another party’s careless or wrongful conduct caused the death. Because of this, the surviving family has the right to hold that party accountable.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Arizona?
Arizona law outlines specific parties who may benefit from a wrongful death claim. These typically include the surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased. In some cases, other dependents may also qualify.
The lawsuit itself is filed by the personal representative of the estate. This is often a family member designated through the estate process. Additionally, an experienced wrongful death attorney can help navigate this requirement.
Families in Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, and Avondale often come to us with questions about eligibility. We walk every family through the process clearly and compassionately. You deserve to understand your rights before making any decisions.
What Compensation Can a Wrongful Death Claim Recover?
Wrongful death compensation in Arizona can cover a range of losses. These losses are divided between the estate and the surviving family members.
Compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills incurred before the death
- Lost income and future earning capacity the deceased would have contributed
- Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering of surviving family members
- Loss of household services the deceased would have provided
Every family’s losses are different. Therefore, the value of each claim depends on the specific facts and circumstances involved. We carefully evaluate all damages to pursue the full compensation your family deserves.
Why Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer with Insurance Defense Experience?
Most personal injury attorneys only know one side of the process. At Valley Injury Law, our founding attorney Travis Meltzer started his career on the other side. He spent years defending insurance companies against claims just like yours.
That insider knowledge makes a significant difference. For example, Travis knows the tactics insurers use to delay, devalue, or deny wrongful death claims. He uses that experience to anticipate those moves and counter them effectively.
Families in Glendale and across the Greater Phoenix area benefit from this unique advantage. On the other hand, families without experienced legal representation often settle for far less than their claim is worth.
How Insurance Companies Handle Wrongful Death Claims
Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to pay as little as possible on every claim. After a wrongful death, they may move quickly to contact grieving families with a settlement offer.
That offer may seem helpful at the time. However, initial offers are almost always far below the true value of a wrongful death claim. Accepting early can permanently close the door on additional compensation.
Moreover, insurers may request recorded statements or ask for access to medical records. These requests can be used to undermine your claim. Because of this, it is important to speak with a wrongful death lawyer before communicating with any insurance company.
The Wrongful Death Claims Process in Arizona
Filing a wrongful death claim involves several important steps. Understanding the process can help families feel more prepared during an incredibly difficult time.
First, we conduct a thorough investigation of the incident. Next, we gather evidence including police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Then, we identify all liable parties and calculate the full extent of your family’s damages.
After that, we file the claim and begin negotiations with the insurance company. In many cases, we reach a fair settlement without going to trial. However, if the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.
Arizona’s Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death
Arizona sets a strict deadline for filing wrongful death lawsuits. Generally, families have two years from the date of their loved one’s death to file a claim.
Missing this deadline can permanently bar your family from recovering any compensation. Therefore, it is critical to contact a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible after a fatal accident.
Additionally, gathering evidence becomes more difficult over time. Witnesses’ memories fade. Surveillance footage gets deleted. Acting quickly protects both your legal rights and the strength of your case.
Serving Glendale and the Greater Phoenix Area
Valley Injury Law proudly serves families throughout Glendale and the surrounding communities. Whether you are in Peoria, Surprise, Avondale, or right in Phoenix, our team is ready to help.
Glendale is home to busy roadways, major retail corridors, and high-traffic intersections. Furthermore, sporting events at State Farm Stadium and concerts at Desert Diamond Arena bring heavy traffic to the area. Tragically, this increases the risk of fatal accidents for local residents.
We know this community. We are committed to helping Glendale families find their footing after an unthinkable loss.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims
How long does a wrongful death case take to resolve?
Every case is different. Some cases settle in several months, while others take longer if litigation is required. We work efficiently to move your case forward without sacrificing the quality of your outcome.
Do I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. Many wrongful death claims are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. That preparation often leads to better settlement offers from insurers.
What if the at-fault party doesn’t have insurance?
There may still be options available to your family. For example, your loved one’s own uninsured motorist coverage may apply in certain situations. We explore every potential source of compensation on your behalf.
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer?
At Valley Injury Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and nothing out of pocket. We only collect a fee if we recover compensation for your family.
Can I still file a claim if my loved one was partially at fault?
Arizona follows a comparative fault rule. Therefore, partial fault by your loved one does not necessarily prevent a recovery. It may reduce the total amount, but a claim can often still be pursued. We can evaluate the specific facts of your situation during a free consultation.
Contact Valley Injury Law — Glendale Wrongful Death Attorney
Your family deserves answers, support, and relentless advocacy. A wrongful death lawyer at Valley Injury Law is ready to stand by your side from the very first call.
We offer free, no-obligation case reviews for families throughout Glendale, Phoenix, Peoria, and the entire Greater Phoenix area. Moreover, you pay nothing unless we win your case. There is no risk in reaching out.
Do not let the insurance company take advantage of your family during the hardest time of your life. Contact Valley Injury Law today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help your family move forward.