McKinney, Texas Wrongful Death 

Whenever death occurs, there are always loved ones left behind to grieve and deal with the aftermath. Losing someone suddenly due to another person’s negligence or wrongful act is devastating, leaving families not only heartbroken but also facing practical, financial, and legal challenges. In these moments, families need more than an attorney; they need someone who listens, cares, and guides them through a difficult process. For over 40 years, Attorney David K. Wilson has served families in North Texas, including right here in McKinney, seeing firsthand how profoundly wrongful death cases affect communities. He knows that behind every claim is a life cut short and a family struggling to rebuild. 

Mr.  Wilson doesn’t just handle wrongful death cases. He walks alongside families during one of the hardest times of their lives, providing both compassionate support and experienced legal guidance to ensure justice is pursued for the loved one who has been lost. 

Understanding Wrongful Death in Texas 

In Texas, wrongful death is defined by law as a death caused by the “wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default” of another person (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 71.002). In simple terms, this means that if someone dies because another person acted negligently or intentionally caused harm, Texas law allows certain family members to hold the responsible party accountable through a lawsuit. 

A wrongful death lawsuit is built around several legal elements. First, there must have been a duty of care, meaning the person who caused the death had a legal obligation to act responsibly to avoid harming others. Second, there must have been a breach of that duty, such as reckless driving, unsafe conditions on someone’s property, or failure to follow safety regulations. Third, that breach must be the direct cause of the death, meaning the loss would not have happened if the breach had not occurred. Finally, the law allows certain family members to file a claim, including spouses, children, and parents of the deceased. These individuals are considered the estate's legal representatives for the purpose of pursuing compensation. 

Mr. Wilson takes the time to explain these concepts in clear, understandable terms, ensuring families feel informed and empowered rather than overwhelmed by legal language. 

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in McKinney 

In Texas, only certain family members have the legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These typically include the deceased's spouse, children, and parents. The law recognizes that these close relatives are most directly affected by the loss, both emotionally and financially. 

When multiple family members are involved, Texas law provides guidance for how recovered damages are distributed fairly among those entitled. Mr. Wilson helps families navigate this process with care, clearly explaining each person’s rights and responsibilities. He ensures that families understand the steps involved, avoids common legal pitfalls, and works to make the process as straightforward as possible during an already difficult time. 

Common Causes of Wrongful Death 

Wrongful deaths can occur in a wide range of tragic circumstances. Some of the most common causes we see include: 

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Collisions involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, or pedestrians are a leading cause of wrongful death claims. Distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and failure to yield are frequent contributors. 
• Workplace Accidents: Unsafe conditions, inadequate safety equipment, or employer negligence can lead to fatal workplace injuries. Construction sites, industrial settings, and oil and gas operations are often involved. 
• Defective Products: Manufacturers and sellers may be held responsible when faulty products cause fatal accidents, such as defective vehicles, machinery, or consumer goods. 
• Premises Liability: Property owners have a duty to maintain safe environments. Slip-and-fall accidents, inadequate security, and hazardous conditions can lead to deadly incidents. 
• Criminal Acts or Negligence: Assaults, reckless behavior, or other intentional acts that result in death may also form the basis of a wrongful death claim. 

Our team handles every case with the same care and attention we would want for our own families. We take the time to understand how the loss has affected your life, carefully investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, and gather the evidence needed to hold those responsible accountable. Mr. Wilson knows that every case represents not only a legal claim, but a family’s personal tragedy, and he treats every client with compassion, respect, and a commitment to standing by them every step of the way. 

Damages Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Case 

Texas law allows families to pursue both economic and non-economic damages to compensate for their loss. Economic damages include measurable financial losses such as medical expenses incurred before death, funeral costs, lost income the deceased would have provided, and loss of benefits or financial support to the family. Non-economic damages compensate for the emotional toll of the loss, including mental anguish, loss of companionship, grief, and the disruption to family relationships. 

David K. Wilson & Associates carefully calculates the full impact of the loss on your family. Mr. Wilson represents family interests during negotiations with insurance companies or other parties, ensuring that compensation reflects both the financial and emotional consequences of the death. David believes that no number can replace a loved one, but fair compensation can provide security and support for the family left behind. 

The Importance of Acting Promptly: Statute of Limitations 

In Texas, there is a statute of limitations for filing wrongful death claims, which is generally two years from the date of the death. This deadline is not intended to rush grieving families; rather, it ensures that evidence is preserved, witnesses are available, and the case can be properly investigated while memories are fresh. Missing this window can prevent families from seeking justice or compensation entirely. 

We encourage families to reach out as soon as they feel ready, while we handle the legal deadlines and paperwork so they can focus on grieving and healing. Our goal is to reduce the stress and provide guidance during an incredibly difficult time. 

Why Families Choose David K. Wilson & Associates 

Wrongful death cases are deeply personal tragedies, and attorney David K. Wilson understands that behind every claim is a family trying to make sense of a sudden and devastating loss. He takes great care to approach each case with compassion, thoroughness, and respect for the family’s needs. 

He has attended funerals, answered late-night calls, and made himself available to support families whenever needed. He takes the time to learn about how the loss has impacted your life, listens to your story, and advocates fiercely on your behalf. Every step of the legal process is handled with care, ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable and families feel supported. 

When you work with David K. Wilson & Associates, you gain more than just legal representation; you gain a trusted ally who genuinely cares about your well-being and is committed to pursuing justice for your loved one. 

If your family has lost someone due to the negligence or wrongful act of another in McKinney, contact David K. Wilson & Associates today for a free, compassionate consultation. We will help you understand your rights, explain your options clearly, and work to secure the justice and support your family deserves.