Securing a Brighter Future After a Wrongful Death
When a person loses their life through no fault of their own, insurance companies and large corporations will aggressively defend themselves to limit payouts. A skilled wrongful death attorney in Las Vegas can provide invaluable counsel and support by investigating the incident, navigating insurance negotiations and managing all communication related to the claim, accurately assessing damages, and taking the case to trial if necessary.
Our firm has set records time and again for wrongful death cases nationwide:
- $860 million for the mother of a young woman who was killed when a crane collapsed on her apartment building.
- $222 million on behalf of the widow of a worker who lost his life in an industrial accident.
- $209 million for the family of a drilling company worker who contracted a fatal, preventable virus while on the job.
A successful wrongful death suit can provide answers, accountability, and compensation to provide a clear path forward—toward a brighter future.
Key Elements of a Wrongful Death Case
A wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing of another party. Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) § 41.085, the family or estate of the deceased may bring a civil lawsuit to hold the responsible party liable for their loss. Unlike criminal cases—which are prosecuted by the state and may lead to imprisonment and other criminal penalties—wrongful death claims focus on compensating surviving family members for the tangible and intangible losses they’ve suffered.
To bring a successful wrongful death claim in Nevada, you generally must prove:
- The defendant owed a legal duty to the deceased (e.g., a driver must drive safely and obey traffic laws).
- The defendant failed to uphold that duty, acting negligently or wrongfully.
- The defendant’s conduct directly caused or significantly contributed to the victim’s death.
- The death led to compensable losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, or emotional suffering for surviving family.
If these elements are established, the responsible party or their insurance carrier may be required to pay damages to surviving heirs or the estate. If you lost someone you love, a Las Vegas wrongful death attorney can evaluate your situation, determine whether you have a viable case, and walk you through the legal process.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Las Vegas, NV?
In Nevada, both the deceased’s personal representative (i.e., the executor of the estate) and certain surviving family members may initiate a wrongful death lawsuit. NRS § 41.085(a) and (b) outline these qualifications.
Generally, the following parties are eligible to file a wrongful death action in Las Vegas:
- Legally recognized spouses and registered domestic partners.
- Children, including both biological and adopted children.
- Parents, if the deceased was unmarried and had no children.
- If no family is available or eligible, the decedent’s personal representative can file on behalf of the estate.
Nevada law typically requires wrongful death lawsuits to be filed within two years of the date of death. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to seek compensation altogether. Because legal proceedings take time—especially in complex cases involving multiple defendants—consulting a wrongful death attorney in Las Vegas as soon as possible is essential to protect your right to compensation.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Las Vegas
While wrongful death can occur in any number of circumstances, certain scenarios are especially prevalent in the Las Vegas area. Nevada’s tourism industry, busy highways, and rapidly expanding commercial districts can elevate the risk of fatal accidents. Below are some of the most frequent causes of wrongful death in Las Vegas.
Motor Vehicle Collisions
According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety, Clark County accounts for a significant portion of the state’s traffic fatalities each year. High speeds, heavy congestion, and drunk or distracted driving all contribute to a higher risk of deadly accidents on Las Vegas roads. These may involve large trucks, pedestrians, motorcycles, and other vehicles.
Workplace Accidents
Construction, hospitality, and industrial worksites become dangerous when employers fail to maintain equipment, do not properly train their employees, and ignore safety regulations. Falls from heights, equipment malfunctions, and exposure to hazardous materials are all examples of work-related incidents that can lead to fatal injuries.
Premises Liability Incidents
The many hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues in Las Vegas have a legal obligation to provide safe environments for patrons. Inadequate security, slippery floors, and neglected maintenance can have deadly consequences, including slip and fall accidents, drownings, or even assaults by other patrons or guests.
Product Defects
Faulty vehicle components, defective medical devices, or unsafe consumer goods can cause fatal accidents. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products meet safety standards and include adequate warnings or instructions for use. When they don't, they may be held accountable for any resulting injuries or losses of life.
Accidents, particularly fatal ones, do not “just happen.” They have actual causes that can be identified and parties that should be held responsible. Our team is committed to helping families in the Las Vegas area get the answers they need after losses caused by trucking accidents, construction accidents, workplace incidents, and more.
Get Help from a Las Vegas Wrongful Death Attorney: (888) 493-1629
Losing a loved one is a profound loss that no amount of money can truly make right. However, a wrongful death claim can provide the financial support your family needs to cover medical bills, funeral costs, and other losses—while holding negligent parties accountable. If you believe your loved one’s passing was caused by someone else’s wrongdoing, don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm. Our Las Vegas personal injury attorneys have the experience, resources, and dedication to pursue justice on behalf of grieving families. Let us focus on the legal battle, so you can concentrate on healing and remembering the life and legacy of the person you lost.
Contact us today to arrange a confidential consultation. Our Las Vegas wrongful death attorneys are here to help.
