In the United States, car accidents rank among the top causes of fatalities, resulting in more than 100 deaths daily, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These incidents inflict suffering on families, forcing them to confront new emotional and financial challenges.
When a loved one loses their life in a car crash due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to identify those who have the legal standing to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Immediate family members
Immediate family members, including spouses, children and sometimes parents, have the primary right to file a wrongful death claim after losing someone in a fatal car accident in Tennessee. They often experience significant losses and seek compensation for aspects, such as lost financial support, companionship and emotional suffering.
Distant family members
In some cases, distant family members may also be eligible to file a claim. This includes grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, though eligibility varies by state. The extent of their relationship with the deceased and their dependency on them for financial support are factors that determine if they are eligible to file a claim.
Dependents and life partners
Those who depended on the victim may also have the right to file a wrongful death claim. This applies to a wide range of individuals, such as domestic partners, stepchildren or anyone who can prove to the court that they relied on their loved one for financial support.
Legal representatives
If the deceased did not have immediate family members or dependents, the estate’s legal representative can file a claim on behalf of the victim’s estate. This representative acts in the best interests of their assets and liabilities, seeking compensation for the estate’s losses.
While no amount of money can take away the pain of losing a loved one, holding those responsible accountable can bring some closure to a grieving family.
