There are no words anyone can say to fully describe the pain of losing a loved one in a car accident. The feeling of having someone torn away from you in an instant, the shock and the grief, the wondering each day how you’re going to make it through–even words of comfort from friends cannot bring sense to you right now.
The only thing you can focus on is the unfairness of it all: the fact that someone, somewhere, is walking around free after changing your family’s life forever. While no amount of legal action can bring your loved one back to you, it can bring the person who caused the accident to justice and prevent them from harming anyone else in the future.
You may have a valid case if a fatal car accident was caused by:
- DUI. Drunk driving, as well as driving while under the influence of drugs, is the leading cause of fatal crashes in the U.S. If the driver who struck your loved one was impaired during the crash, he may be held accountable for your loss, and if he was drinking in a bar, the bar that over-served him can also be held liable.
- Distractions. Studies estimate that a quarter of all fatal crashes involves some form of distraction, and were caused by as little as three seconds of driver inattention. In cases of electronic distraction (such as cell phone use), the driver is held responsible for the distraction and may face jail time as a result.
- Speeding. Speeding is a major factor in car accident deaths, causing nearly 20% of all fatal car accidents in Kentucky in 2012. Drivers are usually held responsible for speeding deaths unless some other circumstances caused the car to accelerate.
- Car malfunction. In some cases, a car manufacturer may be held liable for a fatal accident if the vehicle failed to perform normally, such as sudden acceleration, faulty steering responses, or braking problems.
- Roadway problems. Accidents that are caused by roadway hazards, such as debris, potholes, uneven grading or steep curves may be the fault of the city planner that built or oversees the road itself.
It will take time, but little by little, you can begin to find your way back to a normal life. If someone in your family died after a Louisville car accident, the Kentucky attorneys at Gray and White can help you begin to heal by listening to the details of your case at no cost to you. Call us today at 800.634.8767 or fill out the contact form on the top of this page to set up your FREE, one-on-one consultation.