Catastrophic injuries are among the most devastating events a person or family can experience. They cause long-term or permanent damage that alters every aspect of the victim’s life, from the ability to work to the capacity to enjoy daily activities. Tragically, when these severe injuries prove fatal, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Texas law.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston personal injury attorneys have extensive experience helping families navigate this difficult transition. We understand that behind every catastrophic injury or wrongful death claim is a story of loss, disruption, and a family searching for answers.
Why Catastrophic Injuries Often Result in Wrongful Death
Catastrophic injuries frequently lead to fatal outcomes because of the nature of the trauma. Even with the best medical care, these injuries can lead to organ failure, infections, or complications that the body cannot overcome.
For example:
- Traumatic brain injuries may cause irreversible brain swelling or loss of vital function.
- Severe burns can lead to infection or damage to major organs.
- Spinal cord injuries can result in respiratory failure or paralysis-related complications.
- Crush injuries often cause internal bleeding or irreversible tissue damage.
When death occurs, the legal focus shifts from the victim’s personal injury claim to the losses suffered by surviving family members, including emotional anguish, loss of companionship, and financial hardship.
What Families Need to Know About Texas Wrongful Death Claims
The wrongful death process in Texas allows eligible family members to seek compensation for both tangible and intangible losses.
Key points include:
- Eligible claimants: Only the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased may file a wrongful death lawsuit.
- Statute of limitations: Claims must typically be filed within two years of death.
- Recoverable damages: Families may recover for medical costs incurred before death, funeral and burial expenses, lost income and benefits, and the loss of care, companionship, and guidance.
- Exemplary damages: Families may also seek punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct.
These cases are emotionally and legally complex. Our experienced Houston wrongful death attorneys can guide families through the process, helping them build a strong case while minimizing the additional emotional strain.
The Role of Negligence in Catastrophic and Fatal Accidents
Negligence is often the common thread linking catastrophic injuries and wrongful deaths.
Some of the most frequent causes include:
Proving negligence in these cases requires a detailed investigation. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and economists to establish liability and pursue full compensation.
How Hollingsworth Law Firm Helps Families Seek Justice
Our team understands that families dealing with the aftermath of a fatal injury are not just facing financial challenges; they are coping with grief, uncertainty, and the need for accountability. We take a compassionate but aggressive approach to every wrongful death case, ensuring our clients’ voices are heard and their rights protected.
We investigate every detail, preserve critical evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel so families can focus on healing. Whether through negotiation or trial, our attorneys are prepared to pursue the justice and recovery your family deserves.
Contact Hollingsworth Law Firm Today
If your loved one suffered a catastrophic injury that later resulted in death, you do not have to face this alone. The attorneys at Hollingsworth Law Firm are ready to listen, guide you through your legal options, and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Contact our Houston office today at 713-637-4560 or online to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We are committed to helping Texas families hold negligent parties accountable and achieve meaningful results when tragedy strikes.
Related Links:
About The Author
Steve Hollingsworth
Steve Hollingsworth is a seasoned trial attorney with extensive experience across Texas. After beginning his career as a felony prosecutor, Steve went on to represent major insurance companies before focusing on helping individuals injured in car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability cases. Founder of his own firm, Steve is committed to providing personalized, client-focused legal representation to ensure justice for those he serves.
