Deadly on-the-job accidents can leave families unsure of their legal options. Many people wonder: are there workers’ compensation death benefits in Louisiana? In short, yes, the state provides some benefits for fatal work accidents.
A Lafayette workers’ compensation lawyer from our team at Laborde Earles can help your family deal with this challenging time. We can explain possible benefits and help you file a claim. Find out more by calling or completing our online contact form.
Does Louisiana Offer Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits?
Louisiana’s workers’ compensation system can provide death benefits to the surviving beneficiaries of employees who experience deadly accidents on the job. You may only qualify for these benefits if your loved one was working during the accident.
Employers sometimes try to deny these claims, so we recommend contacting a wrongful death lawyer in Lafayette to determine if you qualify for damages.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientWho Can Receive Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits in Louisiana?
Only close family members qualify for workers’ comp death benefits in most cases. You may have a chance to secure damages if you lose your spouse as long as you lived with them. Additionally, children may receive benefits if they are:
- Under the age of 18
- Have disabilities that prevent them from earning a living wage
- A full-time student and under 24
Additionally, you may file a claim for damages if you relied on your family member for financial support, or you can prove you were a dependent of the deceased. Non-relatives may also file a claim if they relied on the deceased for financial support in some cases.
Surviving parents or non-dependent children may file a claim for damages if the deceased had no dependents. Finally, family members may request damages to cover their loved one’s burial and funeral expenses.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientWhat Are Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits in Louisiana?
If you qualify for workers’ comp death benefits in Louisiana, you generally receive a percentage of your loved one’s average wages. The exact percentage you receive will depend on your relationship with the deceased.
A worker’s comp lawyer can review your situation and provide you with specific information about your possible damages.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientHow Long does Louisiana Offer Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits?
Louisiana provides workers’ comp death benefits to individuals for varying amounts of time, depending on their relationship to the deceased. For example, a spouse may receive benefits until they remarry.
Upon remarriage, spouses receive a lump sum payment that covers two years of payments.
Children may receive benefits until they reach 23 if they’re students. They may continue to receive benefits if they have mental or physical impairments that prevent them from earning a living wage.
Can You Get a Lump Sum Payment for Death Benefits?
Louisiana only provides lump sum payments for workers’ comp death benefits in some cases. A widow or widower may receive a lump sum payment in the event that they remarry.
Additionally, surviving parents or non-dependent children may receive a single payment of up to $75,000 in some cases.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientHow Long do You Have to Claim Death Benefits in Louisiana?
You must request workers’ comp death benefits within a specific amount of time after a fatal accident to qualify for these damages. Generally, you have two years from the time of your loved one’s last medical treatment to file a claim.
Your workers’ comp lawyer can review the specific deadline on your claim to ensure you move the process forward in a timely manner.
Can You Sue After a Deadly Workplace Accident in Louisiana?
Generally, Louisiana prohibits family members from suing an employer after a fatal workplace accident. However, you may qualify to file a wrongful death lawsuit if the accident occurred due to the negligent actions of a third party.
For example, you may qualify to file a claim if your loved one lost their life due to a faulty piece of safety equipment. In this situation, our team at Laborde Earles may help you file a claim against the equipment manufacturer.
You can discuss all your legal options after a fatal workplace accident by contacting our team for assistance.
Why Contact Us About Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits?
Our team has 350 years of combined legal experience, allowing us to handle workers’ comp claims involving deadly accidents confidently. We use our training and extensive knowledge to assist with all of your legal needs, giving you time to care for your family emotionally.
We believe in treating our clients with compassion and respect. You can reach out to us for relentless assistance with any legal challenges faced by your family.
Speak to Us About Workers’ Comp Death Benefits in Louisiana
Are there workers’ compensation death benefits in Louisiana? Yes, the state offers family members and dependents damages in the event of a deadly on-the-job accident. Our team at Laborde Earles can help you learn more about these funds.
Call or fill out our online contact form to learn more.
