What Happens During a Wrongful Death Accident Scene Inspection?

One of the more difficult parts of a wrongful death case can be revisiting the place where a loved one lost their life.

Over the years, we have visited many accident scenes involving fatal car accidents, workplace incidents, maritime accidents, and other tragic events. These inspections are never easy, and they are especially difficult for the families involved.

At the same time, preserving evidence and understanding exactly what happened are often important parts of pursuing a wrongful death claim.

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Preparing for the Inspection

Before visiting an accident scene, we typically meet with the family to explain what we expect to do and what information may be helpful during the investigation.

Sometimes family members have information about the accident, the location, or the circumstances leading up to the event that can assist with the inspection and investigation.

Whether a family member attends the inspection is entirely their decision.

Some families prefer not to return to the scene, while others find that being present helps them better understand what happened to their loved one.

Experts Are Often Involved

In many wrongful death cases, experts play an important role in the investigation.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include accident reconstruction experts, engineers, maritime experts, safety professionals, or other specialists who can help determine how the incident occurred and whether it could have been prevented.

While attorneys understand the legal issues involved in a case, experts often know exactly what evidence needs to be documented and preserved.

Their work frequently becomes an important part of proving fault and explaining what happened to insurance companies, judges, and juries.

Documenting the Evidence

Some accident scene inspections take only a short time, while others may last several hours.

Every case is different.

During the inspection, photographs and videos are often taken to preserve important evidence and document conditions as they existed at or near the time of the accident.

Depending on the circumstances, measurements may be taken, equipment may be inspected, and additional information may be gathered to assist experts in reconstructing the event.

The goal is simple: preserve as much information as possible before evidence disappears or conditions change.

We Understand How Difficult This Can Be

Returning to the location where a loved one died can be emotionally overwhelming.

Families are always welcome to participate in an inspection if they wish, but there is never any obligation to do so.

In some cases, a family member may have witnessed the incident or possess information that could assist with the investigation. In others, attending simply feels too difficult.

There is no right or wrong decision.

Our goal is to make the process as respectful and as manageable as possible while ensuring that the evidence necessary to protect the family's rights is preserved.

Has Your Family Lost a Loved One Due to Someone Else's Negligence?

If your family has lost a loved one because of the negligence of another person or company, we would be honored to answer your questions and discuss your options during a free and confidential consultation.

Call our office at 985-590-6182 to learn more.

We represent clients throughout St. Tammany Parish, Tangipahoa Parish, Washington Parish, and communities across the Northshore including Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, Hammond, and Madisonville.