January 9, 2025 | Truck Accidents
A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds in Oklahoma. Unfortunately, when a crash happens, the consequences are disproportionately likely to be catastrophic. Large commercial trucks are involved in more than their fair share of fatal wrecks.
Losing a close loved one to a truck accident is devastating. It is imperative that grieving families know how to get justice, closure, and financial support. Here, our Oklahoma City semi-truck accident attorney highlights your legal options after a loved one’s fatal crash in Oklahoma.
You Have the Right to File a Civil Wrongful Death Claim
If you have lost a loved one in a truck accident, you generally have the legal right to seek financial compensation for your loss by filing a wrongful death claim. It is a type of legal claim that is intended to hold the responsible parties—whether that is the truck driver, the trucking company, or other at-fault party—accountable for their negligence or misconduct. Through a wrongful death claim, you may seek damages for a variety of losses, including:
- Funeral and burial expenses;
- Out-of-pocket medical costs;
- Loss of financial support; and
- Loss of love, companionship, consortium, and guidance.
Note: Wrongful death liability is based on fault. Every fatal truck accident in Oklahoma City should be thoroughly investigated.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Truck Accident in Oklahoma
Unfortunately, not every person who lost a close loved one to a truck accident has rights under Oklahoma’s wrongful death laws. In our state, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate is the one who typically files the wrongful death lawsuit. If your loved one had a will, the appointed executor usually takes on this responsibility. In cases where there is no will, the court may appoint a personal representative. While the personal representative is formally named as the plaintiff, the compensation ultimately benefits the surviving family members—spouse, children, parents, or other dependents who relied on the deceased’s support.
Know the Deadline: Two-Year Statute of Limitations
Wrongful death claims are time-sensitive. In Oklahoma, there is a two-year statute of limitations (Okla. Stat. tit. 12, § 1053). Grieving family members must initiate a civil wrongful death claim within two years of the date of a fatal truck accident. Only limited exceptions apply. You do not want to wait to get started with the claims process, as truck companies and insurers will start building their defense the right way. Be Proactive: Speak to an Oklahoma City wrongful death attorney right away.
Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Oklahoma City Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At McGuire Law Firm, our Oklahoma City truck accident lawyer has the skills and legal experience to handle wrongful death cases. Grieving families need strong representation. If you lost a loved one in a fatal semi-truck accident, we can help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We represent families in wrongful death claims in Oklahoma City and throughout the region.