Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Victoria, TX

Losing a loved one as a result of someone else's negligence is a tragedy. It can be especially difficult for the community of Victoria, Texas, which is a close-knit community. Whether due to an oilfield accident on the Eagle Ford Shale or a horrific accident on highways like US-77, wrongful death claims are an avenue for families to seek justice and financial accountability after losing a loved one. Various family members have the right to file these claims under Texas law, but wrongful death claims can be complex. Fortunately, at A2X Law, our caring Victoria, TX wrongful death attorneys can help families navigate through the difficulties in seeking compensation after the death of a loved one. Below, we will outline who can file a wrongful death claim in Victoria, TX, and how our team can help you every step of the way. 


Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas? 

According to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 71, wrongful death claims in Victoria, Texas, can only be filed by certain family members. Typical examples of wrongful death claimants include: 

  • Spouses: A surviving spouse, whether legally married or in a common-law marriage recognized by Texas, can file a claim for the loss of companionship, financial support, and emotional suffering caused by their partner’s death. 
  • Children: Biological or legally adopted children of the deceased, regardless of age, can file a claim. This includes compensation for the loss of parental guidance, financial support, and emotional bonds. 
  • Parents: Parents of the deceased, including adoptive parents, can file a claim for the loss of their child, covering emotional distress and financial contributions the deceased may have provided. 


Notably, siblings, grandparents, or other relatives are not eligible to file wrongful death claims in Texas unless they are appointed as the estate’s representative in specific cases (see survival actions below). If no eligible family member files within three months of the death, the estate’s executor or administrator may file on behalf of the estate, known as a survival action, to recover damages like medical expenses or pain and suffering endured by the deceased before passing. 


Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Victoria, TX 

Victoria's position as a Gulf Coast oil and gas center, combined with the surrounding highways, leads to wrongful deaths. Local examples include: 

  • Oilfield Accidents: The nearby Eagle Ford Shale area is often filled with oilfield accidents such as explosions or equipment failure, resulting in the loss of their lives in a 2021 West Texas rig collapse due to the fault of contractors or employers. 
  • Highway Accidents: Highways like US-77 are prone to fatal crashes involving commercial vehicles, as seen in the December 2024 bus and 18-wheeler collision. Drunk driving or distracted driving often plays a role. 
  • Workplace Incidents: Victoria’s industrial sector, including refineries and construction sites, can lead to fatal accidents due to unsafe conditions or inadequate training. 


A2X Law reviews these cases using evidence, including accident reports, OSHA violations, and black box data, to demonstrate negligence and hold the responsible parties accountable.

 

The Process of Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Victoria 

There are many steps to filing a wrongful death claim in Victoria, TX, and the devoted staff at A2X Law has taken the complexity out of filing & made it simple. 

  1. Determine Eligibility: We confirm whether you qualify as a spouse, child, or parent under Texas law and assess whether a survival action is needed for the estate. 
  2. Gather Evidence: Our team collects critical evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to establish negligence. For example, in oilfield cases, we review OSHA reports to identify safety violations. 
  3. Calculate Damages: We consider damages like funeral expenses, lost income, and mental anguish. Punitive damages may also be applicable in cases of gross negligence. 
  4. File Within the Statute of Limitations: Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death causes of action, running from the date of death. We work quickly to collect evidence and meet the deadline. 
  5. Negotiate or Litigate: We negotiate with insurance companies or responsible parties to secure a fair settlement. If needed, our trial-ready attorneys take your case to court, leveraging our nationwide experience in state and federal courts. 


Clients have praised our compassionate, client-focused approach, noting our ability to guide families through this challenging process with care and professionalism. 


How A2X Law Assists Families with Complex Legal Requirements 

Wrongful death cases involve complex legal rules, from establishing negligence to determining damages. A2X Law has an office northeast of Victoria in Corpus Christi: 

  • Personalized Support: We provide tailored guidance, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
  • Thorough Investigations: We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and industry specialists to build strong cases, whether the death occurred in an oilfield or on a Victoria highway. 
  • No Fees Unless We Win: Our contingency-based approach means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. 
  • Local and National Expertise: Our proximity to Victoria allows for rapid response. At the same time, our experience in catastrophic injury cases nationwide ensures we handle even the most complex claims against corporations or insurers. 


According to data from the Texas Department of Transportation, 1,643 crashes statewide in 2024 resulted in serious injuries, many of which were fatal. This background can help us strive for the most significant possible recovery. 


Why Should You File Your Wrongful Death Case with A2X Law? 

The burden of losing a loved one is heavy. The prospect of filing a wrongful death case can feel daunting. Here are some reasons A2X Law is the right choice: 

  • Compassionate Advocacy: Our clients appreciate that we fight hard for justice while emotionally supporting clients in difficult times. 
  • Proven Results: In even the most difficult cases, we have secured fair settlements for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 
  • Local Knowledge: Our understanding of Victoria’s oil and gas industry and high-risk highways like US-77 strengthens our ability to build compelling cases. 


Contact A2X Law Today 

If you have lost a loved one in Victoria, TX, and it was due to someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. With only a two-year statute of limitations to act, it is essential to obtain critical evidence and seek justice as soon as possible. Call A2X Law at (361) 452-1279, or fill out our online consultation form for a case evaluation. Allow our A2X Law wrongful death attorneys to assist you throughout this difficult path and seek the compensation your family deserves.