No words can express the feeling of losing a loved one, especially if their death was preventable. Whether in a trucking collision, on-the-job accident, car crash, or other incident, such a loss leaves a family asking why it happened and wondering how they will move forward. If you lost someone you love, you have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable, and our team can help. At Arnold & Itkin, we have the experience and resources to help you get the answers you need and the justice you deserve. We have represented families in San Antonio, across Texas, and nationwide after the worst accidents and injuries, resulting in more than $20 billion in verdicts and settlements.
In San Antonio, and anywhere in Texas, a wrongful death claim can be filed when an individual or organization is responsible for the death of another person. Filed in civil court, wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to sue a negligent party for the costs and losses incurred by a loved one's death. Even if the responsible party is facing charges in criminal court, there may still be room for a civil wrongful death lawsuit. In situations where a death is caused by negligence, particularly on the part of a company, this may be the only way for a family to find justice.
For many families, a wrongful death case is also a way to get answers that may not come out in a criminal investigation. Through depositions, document requests, and work with independent experts, our San Antonio wrongful death attorneys can uncover how decisions were made, what safety rules were ignored, and which companies put profits ahead of people. That process can feel daunting, but it often brings clarity about what really happened and who's responsible.
Types of Incidents That May Qualify as Wrongful Death
A wrongful death lawsuit may be filed against an individual or business entity that caused the death of a person as a result of negligence, misconduct, or even intentional wrongdoing.
This may include incidents such as:
Car accidents caused by drunk driving, texting, or other careless distractions
These events can occur almost anywhere in the San Antonio area—from busy intersections near the Medical Center to construction sites along major highway projects. When we evaluate an incident, we look beyond the immediate cause to determine whether a company failed to staff a job safely, ignored prior complaints, or violated its own internal safety rules. That deeper review is often what turns a tragic accident into a strong civil case on behalf of a grieving family.
Choose a San Antonio Firm with Record Wrongful Death Results
We have a history of setting and breaking records across the U.S. in all types of personal injury and wrongful death matters. This includes a record-setting $860 million verdict for the mother of a young woman who lost her life when an improperly secured crane crashed into her Dallas apartment. We also secured a record $222 million verdict won on behalf of the widow of a plant worker who was fatally burned as a result of a steam release caused by a faulty valve. Our attorneys held the company that had improperly inspected and modified the valve accountable for their actions.
Our other notable wrongful death results include:
$209 million verdict for the family of an oilfield worker who contracted a fatal virus on the job.
$164.5 million settlement for the family of a worker who was fatally burned at an oil and gas facility.
$81 million settlement for two adult children who lost their mother in an incident.
We have helped families find closure and hold at-fault parties accountable after fatal trucking accidents, drowning incidents, plant and refinery accidents, pipeline explosions, fires, and more. We stop at nothing to uncover the truth for our clients, even when corporations have vast resources and teams of defense attorneys at their disposal.
We won't be outworked, and we won't be outmaneuvered.
"They are driven. They are aggressive. They will not quit for you. They will not give up for you. That’s what makes them special.”
Motor Vehicle Accidents Motor vehicle accidents are a significant cause of wrongful deaths in San Antonio. Factors such as distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence contribute to fatal crashes. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Bexar County consistently ranks among the highest in the state for traffic fatalities.
Trucking Accidents San Antonio’s proximity to major oilfields and its role as a transportation hub means the roads see heavy commercial truck traffic, including 18-wheelers and oilfield service vehicles. These large vehicles may be involved in fatal accidents caused by speeding, fatigue, or improper maintenance when companies cut corners on safety to meet deadlines.
Work & Industrial Accidents San Antonio's diverse industries, including construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas, expose workers to various hazards. Workplace fatalities can result from inadequate safety, equipment failures, or insufficient training. OSHA reports that falls, being struck by objects, and electrocutions are among the leading causes of occupational deaths.
Defective Products Products ranging from automobiles to household appliances can be deadly if they have design flaws or manufacturing defects. Manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and other involved parties are responsible for creating and selling products that are free from defects—and for marketing these products correctly.
In many of these cases, the danger was known long before the fatal incident. Companies may have received prior complaints, safety citations, or recall notices and still failed to act. We review maintenance logs, training records, and corporate policies to see whether the death was the result of a larger pattern of neglect. Holding all responsible parties accountable not only helps your family, it can also push companies to finally fix the problems that put others at risk.
Eligibility to File a Wrongful Death Claim in San Antonio
Who can file a wrongful death claim varies from state to state, but close family members of the victims are usually the only ones eligible to present a wrongful death claim. In every state, spouses and children are given the primary right to seek compensation for wrongful death. Another loved one or relative will not be able to file a claim if a child or spouse has already filed one. Contact an attorney to determine if you are eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
In Texas, the eligible beneficiaries of a wrongful death claim include the following:
Children (18 years or older)
Siblings
Parents
Parents of unmarried children
Spouses or life partners
Any other dependents
There are important choices about who should file, when they should file, and whether multiple family members will proceed together. In some San Antonio cases, relatives disagree about how to move forward or how any recovery should be shared. We help families understand how Texas law allocates compensation between beneficiaries and how the courts in Bexar County typically address these issues, so you can make informed decisions.
It is essential to keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations on wrongful death claims—this means that you only have two years to file a claim before it is too late. To learn more, visit Sec. 71 of the Civil Practice & Remedies Code.
Recovering Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
The loss of a loved one exacts a steep and permanent cost. It robs children of their parents, spouses of their partners, and parents of their children. In addition to the loss of an irreplaceable bond, the loss of a spouse often also means the loss of income and benefits that people rely on. Recovering from those real costs is what a wrongful death claim is for.
You may have the right to recover financial compensation for three types of damages:
Economic Damages: You may be able to recover funeral and medical expenses related to the death of your loved one, as well as for the loss of the wages and benefits they would have earned in their lifetime.
Punitive Damages: In some cases, you might be eligible for additional compensation as a way of penalizing and discouraging the at-fault company from allowing the same fatal accident to occur again.
Navigating potential damages in a wrongful death claim requires strategic counsel. Our San Antonio wrongful death lawyers meticulously quantify both the tangible and intangible losses to maximize recovery. We work closely with financial experts and other professionals to assess economic losses and translate the emotional impact into just compensation. This approach helps ensure that you and your family are supported through recovery and beyond.
Families also want to understand how and when any compensation will be paid, and how it might affect their day-to-day lives. We walk you through options such as lump-sum payments versus structured arrangements, how settlements are typically approved in Bexar County courts, and what steps you can take to protect any financial recovery for children or vulnerable relatives. Our goal is to ensure that any outcome truly helps secure your entire future.
Additional Considerations for San Antonio Wrongful Death Claims
Pursuing a wrongful death claim in San Antonio involves more than proving negligence. It requires an understanding of Texas law and how it’s applied in local courts. Texas imposes unique rules that can impact the outcome of these cases, including limits on certain types of damages and strict deadlines for filing claims. While there is generally a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits, exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances.
IH-35, Loop 410, Highway 281, and other high-traffic areas in San Antonio are too frequently the sites of fatal accidents, especially involving commercial vehicles and oilfield trucks. These local factors make experience in regional case law and court expectations essential. At Arnold & Itkin, we don’t just know the law—we know how it's applied right here in San Antonio. Our attorneys draw on firsthand knowledge of the courts and legal standards in Bexar County to build strong, strategic cases. We know what it takes to win, and we’re relentless in our pursuit of justice.
We also understand the practical challenges that come with a fatal accident in this area, such as coordinating with local law enforcement, medical examiners, and hospitals to obtain reports and records. Delays in getting these documents can slow down a case, so we move quickly to secure critical evidence from San Antonio agencies and preserve it before it is lost or destroyed. By acting early, we give your wrongful death case the strongest possible foundation.
Key factors that can affect a wrongful death case in San Antonio include:
Applicable Texas laws that govern who can file, what damages are available, and how fault is allocated.
Local court procedures that influence timelines, motion practice, and how judges manage complex cases.
Availability of evidence from law enforcement, medical providers, and companies involved in the incident.
Insurance coverage issues where multiple policies, exclusions, or disputes between carriers may complicate recovery.
These factors complicate matters, but they can be navigated when you work with a local San Antonio firm that has the resources, know-how, and connections to effectively investigate and litigate on your behalf.
How San Antonio Courts Handle Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death cases in San Antonio are filed and tried under Texas civil law, typically in the 73rd, 131st, or 224th District Courts of Bexar County. These courts are known for handling high-stakes personal injury and wrongful death matters with both rigor and sensitivity. Judges expect thorough preparation and credible evidence, and juries often want to understand not just what happened—but why it happened and who failed to prevent it.
Our team at Arnold & Itkin is highly experienced in litigating cases in Bexar County courts. We know the judges. We understand the local jury pools. And we know the defense firms and insurers that may be involved in your case. That familiarity gives us—and our clients—a critical edge. We work with top experts, reconstruct accident scenes, and prepare every case for trial from day one. Whether we’re negotiating a settlement or going before a jury, we build compelling narratives backed by hard evidence and unshakable resolve.
The Court Process
Many families are understandably concerned about what it means to have a case filed in one of these San Antonio courts, how long it may take, and whether they will ever have to step into a courtroom. We take time to explain each phase so you always know what to expect. By handling the day-to-day details and court appearances for you, we let you focus on grieving and caring for your family while we fight for the answers and accountability your loved one deserves.
A wrongful death case in the San Antonio area typically involves these stages:
Initial filing of the lawsuit in the appropriate Bexar County district court, which formally starts the civil case and notifies the defendants.
Discovery and investigation where both sides exchange documents, take depositions, and work with experts to analyze the facts and causes of the death.
Mediation or settlement talks that may occur before trial, often at the request of the court, to see if a fair resolution can be reached without a jury verdict.
Trial preparation and presentation if settlement is not possible, with evidence and witness testimony presented to a San Antonio jury for a decision.
Contact Our San Antonio Wrongful Death Attorneys: (888) 493-1629
The San Antonio wrongful death lawyers at Arnold & Itkin are dedicated to helping grieving families obtain the compensation they deserve. We've won billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements, including hundreds of results of $1 million or more. Our attorneys are members of Super Lawyers®, The National Trial Lawyers, and many other prestigious organizations, and we have earned a reputation for securing the results that our clients need. Our firm has proven that we are compassionate, dedicated, and effective advocates for our clients.
We don’t just handle the legal fight—we honor the lives lost by demanding the accountability their loved ones deserve. Our firm is here to make sure your voice is heard, your pain is acknowledged, and your future is secured.
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, there are rare exceptions that could extend or shorten this deadline—especially in cases involving government entities, workplace deaths, or delayed discovery of fault. Missing this deadline could permanently bar your right to recover damages. That’s why it’s critical to speak with a San Antonio wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. At Arnold & Itkin, we act quickly to preserve evidence, notify all liable parties, and ensure your case is filed within the legal window. We don’t leave anything to chance when your future is on the line.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in San Antonio?
Under the Texas Wrongful Death Act, the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit is limited to specific family members: the surviving spouse, children (including adopted), and parents of the deceased. If these parties do not file within three months, the executor or administrator of the estate may pursue the claim unless requested not to. In San Antonio, these cases are typically filed in Bexar County courts, and knowing the local legal landscape is crucial. At Arnold & Itkin, we guide families through every step, ensuring the right party files the claim, the case is properly structured, and no deadline is missed. Our team is here to fight for what your family deserves.
What Is Considered Wrongful Death Under Texas Law?
In Texas, a death is considered “wrongful” if it was caused by another party’s negligence, recklessness, carelessness, or intentional act. This can include everything from car crashes and industrial accidents to medical malpractice or defective products. Wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits, separate from any criminal charges that may be filed. The purpose is to seek justice in the form of financial compensation for the surviving family. At Arnold & Itkin, we help families throughout San Antonio hold companies, employers, and individuals accountable when preventable tragedies occur. If your loved one should still be here today, we can fight to make sure the responsible party is held fully accountable—no matter what.
What Makes Arnold & Itkin Different From Other San Antonio Wrongful Death Law Firms?
At Arnold & Itkin, we don’t just handle cases—we change lives. We’ve recovered more than $20 billion for families in Texas and across the country, including record-setting wrongful death verdicts. Our team prepares every case for trial from day one, knowing it’s the only way to pressure insurance companies and corporate defendants into offering the compensation our clients deserve. We’ve held oil companies, trucking giants, and manufacturers accountable—and we’ve won when no one else could. When your future depends on the outcome of a case, you need a firm that’s been tested at the highest level. Families in San Antonio and beyond turn to us when it matters most.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a San Antonio Wrongful Death Case?
Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These may include lost income and benefits the deceased would have provided, funeral and burial costs, medical expenses prior to death, loss of companionship, and mental anguish. In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish especially reckless behavior. At Arnold & Itkin, we work with financial experts to assess the long-term financial impact of your loss—ensuring nothing is left on the table. We’ve recovered billions for grieving families across Texas and nationwide and can fight to recover everything your family needs to rebuild after an unimaginable loss.
Can a Wrongful Death Claim Be Filed If There Is No Criminal Charge?
A civil wrongful death claim is separate from any criminal case and has a different burden of proof. It is possible to bring a wrongful death lawsuit in San Antonio even if no criminal charges are filed or if a criminal case results in an acquittal. The focus in a civil case is on whether someone’s unsafe choices or violations of duty caused the death and what financial and personal losses the family has suffered as a result.
Do I Have To Attend Court If a Wrongful Death Case Is Filed?
Many families worry about facing a courtroom on top of their grief. In reality, most of the early work in a case happens through paperwork, meetings, and negotiations that do not require your presence in court. You may need to give testimony in a deposition or at trial, but your attorney can prepare you in advance and help you understand what to expect so you feel as comfortable as possible.
How Long Do Wrongful Death Cases in San Antonio Usually Take?
The length of a San Antonio wrongful death case can range from several months to a few years. Factors that affect timing include how many parties are involved, how quickly evidence can be gathered, and how crowded the court’s docket is. Cases may resolve sooner if liability is clear and insurers are willing to negotiate fairly, while complex cases involving corporations or disputed facts may take longer and move through a full trial schedule.
