Losing a loved one is the worst pain. It’s even worse when someone else causes it. A careless driver. A rushed doctor. A company that ignored safety rules. When someone’s actions cause a death, it’s called wrongful death. Families have legal rights in these cases. An experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer helps you use those rights. They guide you. They speak for you. They fight for you. This page explains how.
What Is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death happens when someone dies due to another person’s mistake or bad choice.
Here are common causes:
- Car wrecks
- Medical errors
- Worksite injuries
- Unsafe buildings
- Defective products
The death must be caused by another’s actions. If that’s true, the family may be able to sue.
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Does
You’re grieving. Legal steps may feel like too much.
That’s why lawyers handle it for you. Here’s how they help:
- Check if your case qualifies
- Gather medical and police records
- Work with experts to prove fault
- Talk to insurance companies
- File paperwork
- Handle deadlines
- Go to court if needed
Their job is to protect your rights. Your job is to focus on healing.
Why You Should Not Go Alone
Insurance companies are not your friend. They may seem kind at first. But they work for profit. They try to pay the lowest amount possible. They may rush you to settle. They may deny blame.A personal injury lawyer knows their tricks. They push back. They demand full, fair payment. And they don’t back down.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Case in Missouri?
Only certain people can file.
Under Missouri law, here’s the list:
- Spouse
- Child
- Parent
If none of them are alive, these people may file:
- Siblings
- A court-named person
A lawyer will know exactly who qualifies.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Wrongful death cases allow you to claim money damages. This helps with real costs and emotional pain.
Common damages include:
- Medical costs before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost wages the person would have earned
- Loss of care, guidance, and support
- Pain and suffering
The total depends on your case. Lawyers help you in the legal process to understand what’s fair.
You Have Limited Time to Act
Missouri law gives you three years to file a wrongful death claim. This is called the statute of limitations. It starts from the date of death. If you miss it, you lose your right to sue. Don’t wait. A lawyer can start the process right away.
What If the Death Was an Accident?
It may still count as wrongful death. Accidents still involve choices. A distracted driver. A nurse who missed a symptom. A builder who ignored safety rules If someone acted carelessly, your case may qualify. Let a lawyer review the facts.
Do These Cases Go to Court?
Not always. Most cases settle before trial. That means the lawyer and the insurance company reach an agreement. But sometimes the other side won’t offer fair payment. Then your lawyer files a lawsuit. If needed, they take it to trial. You don’t go alone. They guide you each step.
What Happens During a Wrongful Death Case?
Here’s a basic timeline:
- You meet with a lawyer
- They review the facts
- They gather records
- They talk with insurance
- If talks fail, they file a lawsuit
- They prepare for court
They may also talk with:
- Doctors
- Witnesses
- Experts
Their goal is to build the strongest case possible.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
You don’t pay anything up front. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. They only get paid if you win or settle. Their fee is a part of what you win. You don’t owe them from your pocket. No win? No fee.
Do I Need a Local Lawyer in Kansas City?
Yes. Kansas City lawyers know local courts, judges, and rules. They know how local insurance companies act. They’ve handled cases like yours before. Local knowledge makes a difference.
How Long Do These Cases Take?
It depends. Some settle in six months. Others may take a year or more, especially if they go to trial. A lawyer will give you a better idea once they know the facts.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Kansas City
Here are some cases Kansas City lawyers often handle:
- Car crashes on I-70, I-435, and city streets
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle wrecks
- Doctor or hospital mistakes
- Falls at unsafe properties
- Fatal injuries at job sites
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
Each case is unique. Each deserves care.
What If the Person at Fault Has No Insurance?
You may still have options. Some people have other assets. Some have more than one insurance policy. Your lawyer will look for every possible source of payment. They won’t give up after one try.
Why Justice Matters for Families
Money won’t bring back your loved one. But it can help you move forward. It can pay bills. It can support kids. It can give you peace of mind. Most of all, it holds the guilty party responsible. It says their actions have consequences.
Should I Talk to the Insurance Company Myself?
No.
Let your lawyer do that. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask tricky questions. They may twist your words. Even one wrong answer can hurt your case. Let your lawyer handle all talks.
Start Sooner. Heal Sooner.
Time doesn’t heal all wounds. But justice helps. If you lost someone because of another’s actions, take the first step. Talk to a local skilled Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer today. They’ll listen. They’ll explain your options. And they’ll fight for your family.
FAQs
1. How long do wrongful death cases take in Kansas City?
Many cases settle in 6–18 months. If it goes to trial, it may take longer.
2. Do I have to pay a lawyer upfront?
No. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. They only get paid if you win.
3. Can I still file a case if the accident was partly my loved one’s fault?
Yes. Missouri allows claims even if the victim was partly at fault. Your payment may be reduced.
4. What if no one witnessed the event?
A case may still be possible. Lawyers use expert reports, video footage, or records to prove fault.
5. Do I need to go to court in every case?
Not always. Many wrongful death cases settle out of court through talks or mediation.
