Can Families Get Compensation If Street Racing Turns Fatal?
A tragic accident in Grand Prairie, TX recently claimed the lives of four people, leaving a fifth hospitalized with serious injuries. Police blame the crash on street racing. While this happened on the other side of the state, the laws governing this case also apply here in El Paso. Street racing is negligent behavior, which can qualify injured victims to file a car accident claim. Eligible survivors of fatal accident victims may also obtain compensation through a wrongful death claim.
People who work with an experienced lawyer typically receive higher amounts of compensation. At Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC, we will treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve while fighting aggressively to protect your best interests.
El Paso Street Racing Accident Kills Four Out of Five Passengers
According to law enforcement officers, two drivers, both driving Dodge Chargers, were allegedly street racing. A family of five was turning onto a side street when one of the speeding Dodge Chargers hit their vehicle. The impact flipped the family’s vehicle and caused it to burst into flames.
Although others attempted to help the trapped victims, nobody could get close to their vehicle. Four family members died, with the sole survivor being thrown from the car and experiencing severe injuries. The drivers of the two Charges were taken into custody.
What Compensation Is Available in TX Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims?
If you can prove that someone else’s negligence contributes to or causes an accident that injures you, you likely qualify for compensation by filing a personal injury claim. In the case mentioned, street racing is negligent because it endangers others on the road. The surviving family members can likely file both personal injury and wrongful death claims.
Personal Injury
If you are partially responsible for causing your crash, Texas modified comparative negligence laws determine your eligibility. Amounts and categories vary, but you may be able to obtain damages for losses that include:
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Medical bills
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Ongoing care
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Lost wages
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Property damage
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Pain and suffering
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PTSD, anxiety, and depression
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Losing the ability to enjoy life
Your Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC legal team will investigate your accident, calculate your damages, and work to obtain as much compensation as possible.
Wrongful Death
Generally speaking, if a fatal accident victim would have qualified to file a personal injury claim if they had lived, eligible survivors can file a wrongful death claim. In addition to the available damages in a personal injury claim, these survivors may also receive compensation for:
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Funeral and burial costs
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Emotional anguish
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Loss of future support, guidance, and consortium
To file a wrongful death claim, you must prove that you are an eligible survivor. Each state has laws that designate who is eligible, and these laws vary. Examples of eligible survivors include spouses, parents, adult children, and personal representatives. To see if you qualify, contact the Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC for your free consultation.
Speak With Our Knowledgeable El Paso, TX Personal Injury Lawyer Today
At the Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC, we have the resources commonly found in large firms, but we will treat you and your case with the personal attention and respect you deserve. Call us now at Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC for your free consultation. Our El Paso County, TX wrongful death attorney is ready to start working on your behalf. 915-250-0700.