Columbus Wrongful Death Lawyer
Legally Reviewed By: Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner At Knowles Law Firm
When someone dies due to another person’s negligence or intentional actions in Columbus, the emotional and financial toll on surviving family members can be overwhelming. A wrongful death claim allows eligible family members to pursue compensation for the loss of their family member, including lost income, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering. Wrongful death cases demand careful investigation, strong evidence, and a thorough understanding of Nebraska’s specific legal requirements.
The lawyers at Knowles Law Firm have served Columbus families for over 55 years with compassionate, personalized legal representation. Our team has secured multi-million dollar settlements for clients and understands the sensitivity required when handling wrongful death matters. We work diligently to investigate every aspect of your case, gather crucial evidence, and fight for the full compensation your family deserves.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Columbus, NE?
Nebraska law strictly defines who has the legal right to pursue wrongful death claims. The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate typically files the lawsuit on behalf of eligible beneficiaries. These beneficiaries may include the surviving spouse, children, parents, and, in some circumstances, other dependents who relied on the deceased for financial support.
The personal representative serves as the official plaintiff in the case and manages the legal proceedings. If the deceased person had a will that named an executor, that individual usually becomes the personal representative. When no will exists, the probate court appoints someone to fulfill this role. This person coordinates with the wrongful death lawyer and decides whether to accept a settlement offer or proceed to trial.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Columbus Wrongful Death Case?
Nebraska law permits recovery of both economic and non-economic damages in wrongful death cases. Economic damages represent measurable financial losses stemming from the death. These typically include the deceased person’s lost wages and benefits from the time of death forward, medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, and the value of household services the deceased would have provided.
Non-economic damages compensate surviving family members for intangible losses. These losses encompass pain and suffering endured by the deceased before death, loss of companionship and guidance, and loss of consortium for surviving spouses. Each family’s situation differs, so calculating these damages requires a detailed analysis of your specific circumstances and losses.
How Do Common Accidents Lead to Wrongful Death Claims?
Several types of accidents in Columbus frequently result in fatal injuries. Understanding these common scenarios helps families recognize when they may have grounds for a wrongful death claim.
Fatal car accidents caused by drunk drivers, distracted drivers, or reckless behavior often lead to wrongful death lawsuits. Truck accidents involving commercial vehicles can prove especially deadly due to the size and weight disparity. Motorcycle accidents, pedestrian collisions, and bicycle accidents also account for numerous fatal incidents in Columbus.
Common Causes of Fatal Accidents
Beyond traffic-related deaths, several other circumstances may give rise to wrongful death claims, including:
- Medical malpractice occurs when healthcare providers fail to meet accepted standards of care
- Workplace accidents in construction sites, manufacturing facilities, or other dangerous work environments
- Premises liability incidents involving unsafe property conditions
- Defective products that cause fatal injuries
- Nursing home abuse or neglect leading to preventable deaths
Each type of case requires specific evidence and legal strategies to prove liability and secure compensation.
What Makes Wrongful Death Cases Complex in Nebraska?
Wrongful death litigation involves multiple legal challenges, making professional representation essential. Nebraska’s statute of limitations allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically results in losing the right to pursue compensation. However, certain circumstances may extend or shorten this timeframe, so consulting with a wrongful death lawyer promptly protects your legal rights.
Establishing liability requires proving four key elements. First, the defendant owed a duty of care to the deceased. Second, the defendant breached that duty through negligent or wrongful actions. Third, the breach directly caused the death. Fourth, surviving family members suffered measurable damages. Gathering evidence to prove each element demands thorough investigation, expert testimony, and detailed documentation.
Why Choose Columbus Legal Representation After a Wrongful Death?
Local legal representation offers distinct advantages in Columbus wrongful death cases. A Columbus-based lawyer understands Nebraska’s specific wrongful death statutes and how local courts apply them. They maintain relationships with area medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and other experts who can provide crucial testimony. They also understand the community and can effectively communicate your family’s losses to local judges and juries.
Working with personal injury lawyers who focus on Columbus cases ensures your attorney can meet with you in person, visit accident scenes locally, and represent you in nearby courthouses. This accessibility facilitates better communication and more responsive service during an already difficult time.
Contact Knowles Law Firm for Columbus Wrongful Death Representation
Losing a family member to a wrongful death creates a hardship that no amount of money can truly remedy. Compensation, however, can provide financial stability during your time of grief and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions. The multi-generational team at Knowles Law Firm brings over 55 years of combined experience to wrongful death cases in Columbus. We have recovered millions in settlements for Nebraska families and approach each case with the compassion and dedication your family deserves.
Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. We handle all aspects of your claim, from investigation through trial if necessary, allowing you to focus on your family during this difficult time. Call our office at (402) 431-9000 or complete a contact form to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue justice for your family member’s wrongful death.
About Our Attorney
Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner at Knowles Law Firm
Robert has tried cases in both state and federal courts and was selected as one of the top 100 litigation lawyers in Nebraska for 2014 by the American Society of Legal Advocates. Less than 1.5 percent of lawyers nationally are selected for this recognition. He is rated AV by Martindale-Hubbell which is the highest rating an attorney can obtain. He was also selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2019 Top Rated Lawyer.
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