Are you dealing with the death of a loved one from a truck accident? The emotional pain and financial stress that come with the experience can be overwhelming.
Fortunately, Minnesota law protects families in this situation. You can take legal steps to hold those responsible accountable so you can start healing while also securing the financial support your family may need.
What compensation can your family receive for wrongful death?
After a fatal truck accident, Minnesota allows surviving family members to seek compensation for a variety of losses. Specifically, you can pursue damages to help cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and the loss of future income. Families can also claim remuneration for emotional losses, such as the pain and suffering that resulted.
Bear in mind that truck accidents often involve complicated factors, such as trucking company policies, driver fatigue, or faulty equipment. Therefore, you need to gather as much information as possible to prove what caused the accident. These factors play a role in determining the compensation you can recover and which particular entities you need to file a claim against.
How long do you have to file a claim?
Each state gives families a limited amount of time to file a wrongful death claim after a fatal truck accident. Another name for this time limit is the “statute of limitations.” For most wrongful death claims in Minnesota, the limit is three years from the date of death.
Though this may seem like more than enough time, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights. For one, you may lose your chance to seek compensation if the statute of limitations expires. Additionally, the most important evidence is often available in the days immediately following the accident. Then, it can take months to develop the strongest case.
Therefore, it’s rarely beneficial to delay preparing your case. Prompt action improves your odds of full financial recovery.
Dealing with the aftermath of a fatal truck accident presents immense challenges. Understanding and availing yourself of your rights helps you and your family take steps that allow you to move forward.