Have you lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence in Alabama? If so, Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our Alabama wrongful death lawyers understand the profound grief of losing a family member and will fight to hold responsible parties accountable.
We have a proven track record of success with hundreds of millions of dollars recovered and 93 years of combined experience. When you work with our wrongful death attorneys, we will provide legal support throughout your case and help you navigate Alabama’s wrongful death laws.
Call our law office to schedule a free consultation at 205-973-6417.
How Belt, Bruner & Barnett Can Help After A Wrongful Death In Alabama
Our dedication has helped many families get the compensation they deserve after losing a loved one. We know the legal and emotional challenges these cases bring. Beyond our extensive experience and substantial financial awards, members of our legal team have been recognized by Best Lawyers, the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Martindale-Hubbell, and The National Trial Lawyers.
Our Alabama wrongful death attorneys’ comprehensive services include:
- Thoroughly investigating the circumstances of your loved one’s death
- Gathering crucial evidence to support your claim
- Handling all communications with insurance companies
- Working with expert witnesses to strengthen your case
- Fighting for maximum compensation through settlement or trial
- Supporting your family through each step of the legal process
- Ensuring all filing deadlines are met
- Calculating the full extent of damages
These services ensure your case receives the attention and diligence it deserves while allowing your family to focus on healing. Contact the Alabama personal injury lawyers at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Overview of Wrongful Death Laws in Alabama
Wrongful death is any death caused by a “wrongful act, omission, or negligence” of another person. An individual, multiple people, or a corporation can be held accountable for causing a person’s death.
In Alabama, only the personal representative can pursue damages that the deceased person would have been able to recover if they were still alive. This person is typically the executor named in the deceased person’s will or appointed by the probate court.
What Is My Wrongful Death Case Worth?
The value of a wrongful death claim in Alabama depends on several factors. Key factors that can influence compensation include:
- The deceased person’s age and life expectancy
- Their earning capacity and financial contributions to the family
- The degree of negligence involved
- The available insurance coverage
- The impact on surviving family members
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- The defendant’s degree of culpability
- Similar case precedents in Alabama courts
These factors help us determine an appropriate compensation amount for your case.
What Type Of Damages Are Available?
In most states, wrongful death claims allow for recovery of both economic and non-economic damages. Alabama is different. Under Alabama law, wrongful death claims are unique because they focus solely on punitive damages rather than compensatory damages. These damages are intended to punish wrongful conduct and deter similar behavior in the future, rather than directly compensate the family for financial or emotional losses.
This approach makes Alabama unique. While this may seem unusual, it can result in substantial awards if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious.
In Alabama, wrongful death claims do not cover property damage or funeral expenses because the state’s wrongful death law only allows for punitive damages, not compensatory recovery. However, property damage claims can survive the deceased’s death and may be pursued separately by the estate.
Can I Recover Compensation If My Loved One Was Partially At Fault In Alabama?
Alabama follows a contributory negligence system for most personal injury claims, meaning that a plaintiff’s partial fault can bar recovery. However, in wrongful death cases, contributory negligence usually is not a defense, as Alabama law focuses on punitive damages rather than compensatory recovery. Our attorneys can analyze your case and develop a strategy to maximize recovery under Alabama law.
What Causes Most Wrongful Death Cases In Alabama?
Various factors contribute to wrongful death cases in our state. Common causes include:
- Car accidents
- Medical errors
- Workplace hazards
- Dangerous premises conditions
- Product defects
- Prescription drug errors
- Industrial accidents
- Negligent security
Each cause needs a thorough investigation and evidence gathering to build a strong case.
How Long Do I Have To File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit In Alabama?
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the deceased person’s death. If you miss this deadline, you can lose the right to pursue legal action.
Certain circumstances can affect this timeframe:
- Claims involving government entities
- Defendant’s fraud or concealment
- Wrongful death as a result of medical malpractice
Because wrongful death statutes in Alabama are strictly enforced and exceptions are limited, seeking early legal guidance is essential to protecting your rights.
Contact Our Alabama Wrongful Death Lawyers For A Free Consultation
If you lost a family member because of someone else’s negligence, the Alabama wrongful death attorneys at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our skilled team will guide you through the legal process. We will treat your case with the care it deserves.