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Proposed law could impact wrongful death lawsuits

On Behalf of | Apr 21, 2017 | Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents, Firm News

Most Connecticut residents understand that if a loved one is killed as the result of the negligence of another, there is a right to legal recourse for those left behind. However, the process of constructing a wrongful death legal case is a complicated matter, and there are many different variables at play. These cases rely heavily on the outcome of police investigations into fatal accidents. The evidence gathered during those investigations can be used as a base for a civil lawsuit.

In some cases, however, the police investigation is unable to reach a conclusion on what happened during an accident. That can be incredibly frustrating for the families of the victim(s) and makes it hard for them to move on. A recently proposed bill would require any state agency that investigated a fatal accident and cannot reach a conclusion to turn the matter over to the state’s attorney. From that point, a request can be made for the state police to step in and investigate the matter.

The bill has already passed the House, and is now headed for Senate approval. Those who support the proposed change believe that it provides an additional layer of vigilance for families who are going through a terrible time after losing a loved one. While the process of having a second team investigate a crash could lengthen the time it takes to resolve the matter, it is believed that many more families could have resolution in their cases by having the benefit of a second investigation.

For those in Connecticut who are faced with the loss of a loved one, it is important to take steps to ensure that all legal rights are properly addressed. A wrongful death suit can never make up for the loss of a loved one. However, the proceeds of a successful suit can help the family cover many different expenses related to their loss, and help them regain financial stability during a very tumultuous time in their lives.

Source: theday.com, “Bill would have state’s attorneys take up inconclusive fatal crash investigations“, Lindsay Boyle, April 12, 2017

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