What is a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional act of another person or entity. In Louisiana, surviving family members have the right to pursue compensation for the loss of their loved one. These are among the most emotionally difficult — and most important — cases we handle.
Common causes of wrongful death cases we handle:
- Car accidents caused by a negligent or drunk driver
- 18-wheeler and commercial truck crashes
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products and unsafe consumer goods
- Premises liability — unsafe property conditions
- Medical malpractice
- Criminal acts by a third party
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?
Under Louisiana law, wrongful death claims can be brought by certain surviving family members in order of priority:
- Surviving spouse and/or children — first priority
- Surviving parents — if no surviving spouse or children
- Surviving siblings — if no surviving parents
- Surviving grandparents — if no surviving siblings
There is also a separate survival action that allows recovery for the damages the deceased person suffered between the time of injury and death. Both types of claims can often be brought simultaneously.
Important: Louisiana’s Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations Is 1 Year
In Louisiana, wrongful death claims must generally be filed within ONE YEAR of the date of death. This is a strict deadline — missing it means losing your right to compensation entirely. Do not wait. Contact Pichon Law Firm today.
What Compensation Can Your Family Recover?
A successful wrongful death claim in Louisiana can recover:
We approach every wrongful death case with deep compassion for the family and aggressive dedication to achieving justice. We understand that no financial compensation can replace your loved one — but holding the responsible party accountable, and securing the resources your family needs to move forward, matters.
- Loss of financial support — the income the deceased would have provided
- Loss of services — household contributions the deceased provided
- Loss of love, affection, and companionship
- Grief and mental anguish of surviving family members
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death (via survival action)
How Pichon Law Firm Handles Wrongful Death Cases
Our investigation typically includes:
- Preserving evidence immediately before it disappears
- Working with accident reconstruction and forensic experts
- Identifying every liable party — drivers, employers, manufacturers, property owners
- Building the complete picture of the deceased’s financial contributions and value to the family
- Fighting insurance companies who attempt to minimize what your family receives