Losing someone you love is one of life’s most painful experiences. When that loss is the result of another person’s negligence or misconduct, the grief is often compounded by anger, confusion, and a deep sense of injustice. In these situations, working with a skilled Austin wrongful death lawyer is not just about legal recourse, it’s about accountability and healing.
Texas law allows certain surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim when someone dies due to another party’s wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default. Whether the cause was a fatal car crash, workplace accident, defective product, or medical malpractice, pursuing a claim can help your family find closure and secure the financial support you need moving forward.
In Texas, the following individuals can bring a wrongful death lawsuit:
If none of these parties file a claim within three months of the date of death, the estate’s representative may file on their behalf—unless the eligible survivors specifically request otherwise.
| Cause of Death | Percentage of Cases | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Accidents | 38% | Car, truck, motorcycle, pedestrian |
| Workplace Accidents | 21% | Construction, industrial, oil field |
| Medical Malpractice | 14% | Surgical errors, misdiagnosis |
| Defective Products | 12% | Faulty auto parts, unsafe machinery |
| Premises Liability | 10% | Falls, fires, security failures |
| Other | 5% | Drownings, electrocutions, etc. |
An Austin wrongful death attorney can help you pursue damages such as:
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly egregious negligence or misconduct.
| Case Type | Typical Settlement Range |
| Car Accident Fatality | $250,000 to $1.5 million+ |
| Construction Site Death | $500,000 to $2.5 million+ |
| Medical Malpractice Fatality | $300,000 to $2 million+ |
| Product Liability Fatality | $750,000 to $3 million+ |
| Premises Liability Death | $200,000 to $1 million+ |
You typically have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, exceptions exist for minors or cases involving fraud or delayed discovery. Missing this deadline can bar your ability to recover any compensation, so it’s critical to speak with a lawyer immediately.
Wrongful death cases are emotionally charged, legally complex, and fiercely defended by insurance companies. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, we bring:
We investigate thoroughly, preserve key evidence, and build a case designed to maximize your recovery.
| Stage | Timeframe |
| Initial Consultation | 1 to 3 days |
| Investigation & Evidence | 1 to 4 months |
| Expert Testimony & Valuation | 2 to 6 months |
| Filing the Lawsuit | After strong case foundation |
| Negotiation or Mediation | 4 to 9 months |
| Trial (if needed) | 1 to 2 years |
When you meet with your wrongful death attorney, bring:
No family should have to deal with insurance companies or legal red tape while grieving. Let us take the burden off your shoulders. If you’ve lost a loved one in a preventable tragedy, contact Loncar Lyon Jenkins now for a free consultation. We’ll fight to hold the responsible party accountable and help your family recover what you deserve.
