Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Denver
A successful Denver wrongful death claim requires showing that another party’s conduct caused the death. At Bowman Law LLC, we meticulously investigate the underlying negligence surrounding each loss, which may involve:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Fatal collisions involving cars, motorcycles, pedestrians, and large commercial trucks on Denver roadways.
- Medical Malpractice: Preventable deaths caused by surgical errors, delayed diagnoses, or a failure to treat.
- Premises Liability: Fatalities resulting from unsafe property conditions or negligent security.
- Workplace Accidents: Fatalities resulting from hazardous working conditions or third-party negligence, particularly in high-risk Denver industries like construction or oil and gas.
Evaluating these cases requires a fact-driven analysis of the conduct that led to the death and the parties involved.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Denver, CO?
Colorado Revised Statutes §§ 13-21-201 strictly defines who has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These rights follow a statutory order of priority and are enforced rigorously.
How Colorado Determines Filing Rights
- First year after the death:
Only the surviving spouse has the right to file a wrongful death claim. The spouse may elect to allow the deceased’s children to file instead, but that decision must be made affirmatively.
- Second year after the death:
If no claim is filed during the first year, both the surviving spouse and the deceased’s heirs (typically children) may file, either together or separately.
- If there is no spouse or surviving heirs:
The deceased person’s parents may be eligible to file a claim.
Mistakes in this area can jeopardize a family’s right to recover compensation. Working with Bowman Law helps ensure the claim is handled correctly from the outset.
Damages Available in a Denver Wrongful Death Case
The goal of a wrongful death claim is to recover the financial support and significant personal losses suffered by surviving family members. Damages are generally divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic.
Economic Damages
These damages are quantifiable financial losses resulting from the death:
- Lost income and employment benefits
- Loss of services the deceased provided to the household
- Medical expenses incurred prior to death
- Funeral and burial costs
Non-economic Damages
Compensation awarded under this umbrella addresses deeply personal losses, including:
- Grief and emotional suffering
- Loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance
Colorado law places limits on certain damages, including non-economic loss or injury in wrongful death actions. At Bowman Law, we understand how these caps apply and how to structure claims to protect the full scope of recovery allowed by law.
The Wrongful Death Lawsuit Process
The legal process for a wrongful death claim in Colorado involves a clear series of steps that generally unfold in the following order:
Step 1: Investigation and Filing the Claim
We begin by determining who may be legally responsible for your loved one’s death. This includes collecting critical evidence such as:
- Police or accident reports
- Medical and hospital records
- Witness statements
- Employment and income documentation
Step 2: Discovery Phase
This is the evidence-gathering stage where parties exchange evidence, depose witnesses, and consult with experts.
Step 3: Settlement Negotiations
At this stage, attorneys will enter negotiations to reach an appropriate settlement amount.
Step 4: Trial
If settlement negotiations fail, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge or jury will determine fault and issue an award of damages.
Step 5: Distribution of Compensation
If the verdict is in your favor, funds will be properly allocated to the rightful beneficiaries.
Throughout the process, we provide consistent, clear communication and steady guidance.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Denver?
In most cases, Colorado imposes a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims, measured from the date of death. These deadlines are strictly enforced.
Grief makes it difficult to manage legal deadlines. Working with Bowman Law ensures filings are handled accurately and on time.
Why Choose Bowman Law LLC as Your Wrongful Death Law Firm in Denver
Wrongful death litigation is complex and emotionally demanding. Effective litigation demands experience, specialized knowledge of Colorado statutes, and meticulous preparation.
The Denver personal injury lawyers of Bowman Law have both the sensitivity and skill to help families get through the process with care and confidence.
Speak to A Denver Wrongful Death Lawyer
If another person’s actions caused the death of someone you love, you have our full support.
Contact Bowman Law today to schedule your free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency basis — you owe no legal fees unless we secure compensation on your behalf.
