A fatal car accident can leave surviving loved ones in a state of shock and devastated by grief. The family of a deceased car accident victim can also face serious financial issues, especially if they were dependent on the victim for support.
A tragic auto accident near Bozeman claimed two lives recently. According to the Montana Highway Patrol, an SUV was traveling in the wrong lane on Norris Road and crashed head-on into a minivan. The minivan’s driver was declared dead at the scene of the crash. A woman passenger in the minivan was taken to a local hospital, but later died of her injuries. A news report indicates that a third person suffered serious injury in the crash. At the time this post was written the MHP had not determined what caused the SUV to be in the wrong lane. Their accident investigation is continuing, however.
All drivers have a legal duty to maintain control of their vehicles and stay within the appropriate traffic lanes. A failure to do so can be negligence. A claim for damages can be made against the insurance company of the negligent driver, and if the insurance company will not settle the claim the family can bring a lawsuit against the driver.
When a person dies due to another person’s negligence, Montana law provides a civil remedy for the victim’s next of kin in the form of a wrongful death lawsuit. In a wrongful death case the family can sue to recover compensation for loss of companionship, loss of support and out-of-pocket costs such as funeral expenses. It won’t bring back a deceased loved one, but it can help a grieving family recover financially.
Source: KTVQ.com, “2 killed in crash near Bozeman,” May 15, 2014
At Colton Holm Law Firm, we look forward to learning how we can help you resolve your legal concern.Call us today: (406) 259-9986