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Shreveport Wrongful Death Lawyers

Losing a loved one is heartbreaking, and when it’s caused by someone else’s negligence, the pain is even greater. At Rice & Kendig, we’ve helped countless Shreveport families seek justice after wrongful deaths, honoring their loved ones’ memories while securing their futures.

Our compassionate attorneys stand by your side every step of the way. While no compensation can replace your loss, we’ll hold those responsible accountable and fight to ensure your family’s financial stability.

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Cases

Real Results That Bring
Justice for Families

See How We’ve Won for Others
$1,000,000

Premises Liability

The client was a passenger in a vehicle when the roadway suddenly collapsed, causing vertebral compression fractures and significant PTSD.

$2,150,000

Wrongful Death

The client suffered fatal injuries when the defendant ran a stop sign, causing a collision that resulted in multiple broken bones and severe head trauma.

$1,600,000

Truck Accidents

Former sheriff's deputy, age 72, was rear-ended by a heavy-duty work truck, aggravating a degenerative neck problem.

$1,275,000

Car Accidents

The client was a passenger when another driver ran a stop sign, causing a t-bone collision resulting in a broken femur requiring surgery.

$750,000

Truck Accidents

An 18-wheeler lost power and rolled back into the client's vehicle, aggravating a pre-existing lower back injury.

$4,000,000

Car Accidents

The client's pre-existing Chiari malformation was aggravated in a rear-end collision, requiring a posterior craniotomy.

$750,000

Civil Rights Violation

A 68-year-old client's 4th amendment rights were violated when police illegally entered his home and wrongfully arrested him.

$650,000

Car Accidents

The client was turning into a gas station when struck from behind by a distracted driver, resulting in neck injuries requiring a 2-level cervical fusion.

$465,000

Truck Accidents

An inattentive 18-wheeler driver made an improper turn, causing a collision that aggravated the client's pre-existing neck injury requiring surgery.

$1,000,000

Car Accidents

An 84-year-old client suffered multiple injuries when a vehicle turned left in front of her, causing a t-bone collision.

$2,500,000

Pedestrian Accidents

The client was helping a friend load car seats when struck by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel.

$987,525

18-Wheeler Collision

Logging truck’s failure to yield caused client to suffer fractures in the arm and leg, amputation of 3 toes, and shoulder injuries.

$1,000,000

Premises Liability

Fall at a hotel convention center caused hand, neck, and low back injuries resulting in a 7-year recovery period.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Injuries to back, chest, shoulder, leg and spine requiring surgery.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended sustaining injuries to the neck, back, and knee.

$500,000

Wrongful Death/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was struck and killed during daylight hours while retrieving an item from the highway.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was t-boned by a city vehicle sustaining neck and back injuries, TMJ, and headaches that required physical therapy and multiple injections.

$504,150

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended causing injuries to the neck and right side of the body. Client’s neck injury required surgery.

$545,000

Cycling/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client on a bicycle was hit by a police patrol car causing brain damage, and injuries to the head, neck, legs, and arm.

$550,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended by a big rig causing low back and neck pain; physical recovery and treatment included injections, physical therapy, and counseling.

$625,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Head-on collision led to wrist and hand injuries that required surgery, seat belt injuries, pain in the neck, sternum, pelvis, abdomen, shoulder, and back, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

$650,000

18-Wheeler Collision

18-wheeler driver was rear-ended by another 18-wheeler causing headaches and neck injury.

$663,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was backed into while on the job at an oil field site. Collision resulted in numerous back and neck injuries requiring surgeries.

$665,000

Motor Vehicle Collision/Wrongful Death

Client went to the aid of a vehicle accident victim and was struck and killed by a passing vehicle.

$685,000

Premises Liability

Client sustained two broken legs from a fall over an unreasonably dangerous tripping hazard.

$800,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Head-on collision that left client with back and neck injuries as well as seat belt injuries. Client’s recovery was lengthy and included physical therapy and injections.

$800,606

Motor Vehicle Collision

A defendant driver's unprotected left turn caused a collision, resulting in a severely broken leg requiring surgery, PTSD, loss of independence, and job loss for the client.

$950,000

18-Wheeler Collision

18-wheeler driver turned left, without the protection of a green arrow, in front of client. The collision caused injuries to the hand, neck, shoulder, low back, hip, foot, ankle, and eye.

$950,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was hit by a delivery truck and the vehicle rolled over. Client’s injuries included six broken ribs and a neck injury requiring extensive medical treatment.

$987,610

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended multiple times by a big rig causing PTSD, spinal injuries requiring spinal fusion surgery, physical therapy, and counseling.

$1,000,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was hit by a commercial vehicle that ran a stop sign. Injuries to the knee, neck, and back requiring interventional pain management.

$1,000,000

Insurance Bad Faith

Insurance company refused to pay for hail damage to a commercial property.

$1,000,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended by a drunk driver of an 18-wheeler causing client to suffer short-term memory loss and injuries to the head, neck, shoulders, and back.

$1,151,000

Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was struck by a vehicle in a gas station parking lot. Client suffered head and brain damage resulting in memory loss.

$1,250,000

Wrongful Death

Client’s husband died due to a logging truck running a red light.

$1,375,000

Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client sustained injuries to head, leg and wrist. Client’s broken leg required surgery. In addition, client sought treatment with a neurologist for his head injury and cognitive issues.

$5,100,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client’s motorcycle was hit by a car leaving him in the ICU with facial injuries, arm injuries, and amputation of one leg.

$1,996,460

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended while sitting at a stop sign. Neck and back injuries resulting in headaches and disability. Neck injury required surgery.

$1,855,500

Motor Vehicle Collision

Defendant driver’s failure to stop at a stop sign caused a collision injuring the client’s leg and ankle (required surgery), knee, hip, back, and chest. The airbags deployed, causing airbag injuries.

$1,500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was hit head-on by a delivery truck sustaining injuries to the knee, hand, neck, and back. Neck injury required surgery.

$1,400,000

Workplace Injury

A piece of loading equipment fell on client causing spinal injuries resulting in partial disability.

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Table of Contents

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315.2, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies as a result of someone else’s:

  • Negligence
    Carelessness or failure to act responsibly (e.g., reckless driving, workplace safety violations).
  • Intentional Acts
    ‍    Crimes or deliberate wrongdoing (e.g., assault, homicide).
  • Strict Liability
    Holding a party accountable without proving intent or negligence (e.g., defective products).

A wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to recover compensation for their losses. Whether the cause of death was a car accident, medical malpractice, or a defective product, our Shreveport wrongful death lawyers are prepared to investigate every detail of your case.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

Losing a loved one is a profound tragedy, especially when it stems from preventable negligence.  Below are some of the most common causes we handle, each requiring thorough investigation and relentless advocacy to achieve justice for grieving families.

  • Car Accidents

    Car accidents are one of the leading causes of wrongful death in Shreveport and across Louisiana. Fatal crashes often result from distracted driving, reckless speeding, or impaired drivers. Whether on busy streets like Youree Drive or major highways like I-20, we investigate every detail to prove fault and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

  • Truck Accidents

    Truck accidents involving 18-wheelers and commercial vehicles are devastating due to their sheer size and force. Driver fatigue, improper maintenance, and overloaded cargo are frequent causes of fatal truck crashes. At Rice & Kendig, we uncover negligence, challenge trucking companies, and fight for justice for families who have lost loved ones in these tragic collisions.

  • Motorcycle Accidents

    Motorcyclists are vulnerable on Louisiana’s roads, and even minor crashes can result in fatal injuries. Drivers who fail to check blind spots, yield at intersections, or drive distracted put motorcyclists at severe risk. At Rice & Kendig, we fight to prove negligence and overcome the biases motorcyclists face in wrongful death claims.

  • Pedestrian Accidents

    Fatal pedestrian accidents frequently occur in busy areas like downtown Shreveport, school zones, and residential neighborhoods. Drivers who fail to yield, speed through intersections, or drive distracted often cause these preventable tragedies. We stand with families to hold negligent drivers accountable for the loss of their loved ones.

  • Boating Accidents

    Louisiana’s waterways are a source of recreation, but negligence often leads to fatal boating accidents. Operator intoxication, speeding, and equipment failures frequently cause these tragedies. At Rice & Kendig, we hold boat operators, owners, and manufacturers responsible for fatal accidents caused by carelessness on the water.

  • Aviation Accidents

    Fatal aviation accidents, including private plane crashes and commercial airline incidents, often stem from pilot error, mechanical failure, or safety violations. These complex cases require thorough investigations. Our firm works with aviation experts to identify fault and hold airlines, manufacturers, or operators accountable for preventable tragedies.

  • Workplace Accidents

    Workplace fatalities happen when safety protocols are ignored, equipment fails, or hazardous conditions are overlooked. Whether on construction sites, industrial facilities, or office settings, employers must prioritize worker safety. We fight to hold negligent parties accountable for preventable deaths caused by unsafe workplaces.

  • Premises Liability Incidents

    Fatal injuries often occur on unsafe properties due to poor security, structural hazards, or unaddressed dangers. Whether the incident happens on commercial, residential, or public property, owners are legally responsible for visitor safety. We help families pursue justice for loved ones lost in preventable premises liability incidents.

  • Slip and Falls

    Slip and fall accidents may seem minor but can lead to fatal injuries, particularly for vulnerable individuals. Poor lighting, wet surfaces, and unmarked hazards are often to blame. Property owners must maintain safe conditions, and when they fail, the team at Rice & Kendig is here to assist the families of victims of negligence.

  • Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

    Fatal injuries from dog bites or animal attacks, though rare, are devastating, especially when children are involved. At Rice & Kendig, we strive to ensure negligent owners are held accountable according to Louisiana law for failing to prevent these tragic incidents.

    ‍

Lost a Loved One? Justice for Your Loss Starts Here.

We know how overwhelming wrongful death cases can be because we have already dealt with countless families seeking justice in the wake of tragedy. Let us fight for yours! Contact us today for your free consultation.

Free Consultation

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772

Necessary Steps to Take After Losing a Loved One

Taking certain proactive steps can protect your claim and help your legal team construct a seamless case on your behalf.

1. Secure Important Documents

Gathering key documents is essential to building a strong case. Collect medical records, the death certificate, accident reports, and any other evidence related to the death. If you’re unsure what’s needed, we’re here to help you identify and obtain the necessary paperwork.

2. Avoid Insurance Company Pressure

Insurance companies often try to pressure grieving families into accepting low settlements. Don’t give statements or agree to any offers without consulting an attorney first. We’ll handle all communication with insurers to ensure your rights are protected and your family receives the compensation you deserve.

3. Document Financial Impact

Losing a loved one often results in significant financial strain. Keep records of all expenses, including:

  • Medical bills
  • Funeral costs
  • Lost income
  • Household services that need replacement

4. Seek Emotional Support

Grief is a heavy burden, and emotional support can make all the difference. Consider grief counseling or joining a support group to help your family cope during this difficult time. We can connect you with trusted local resources that provide comfort and guidance.

5. Consult an Attorney as Early as Possible

Early legal guidance is crucial to protecting your rights and preserving important evidence. The sooner you consult with us, the stronger your case will be. We’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process so you can focus on healing.

Types of Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Claims

Wrongful death claims address both the financial and emotional losses suffered by surviving family members. At Rice & Kendig, we pursue full compensation to cover:

Economic Damages

  • Medical bills:
    Costs incurred before death, including surgeries, hospitalization, and medications.
  • Funeral and burial costs:
    Expenses for funeral arrangements, burial, or cremation.‍
  • Loss of financial support:
    Compensation for lost wages, future income, and benefits your loved one would have provided.

Non-Economic Damages

  • Loss of companionship:
    The emotional loss of a spouse, parent, or child.
  • Pain and suffering:
    Addressing the emotional grief and mental anguish of surviving family members.
  • Loss of guidance:
    Compensation for the loss of parental care, advice, and nurturing.

Our team works closely with economists, medical experts, and life care planners to calculate the full extent of your losses and secure every dollar your family deserves.

Understanding Louisiana Wrongful Death Claims

In the wake of your loss, pursuing a wrongful death claim may be overwhelming. We’ll ensure you understand the process and are kept informed at every step. Here’s what you should know before starting.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Louisiana law strictly defines who has the right to file a wrongful death claim, ensuring that only specific family members may pursue compensation for their loss. The order of priority includes:

  • Surviving spouse and children:
    These individuals are first in line to file.
  • Parents of the deceased:
    If no spouse or children survive, the parents can pursue the claim.
  • Siblings of the deceased:
    If no spouse, children, or parents survive, siblings can file.
  • Grandparents:
    In the absence of a spouse, children, parents, or siblings, surviving grandparents may pursue the claim.

This hierarchy makes sure that claims are filed by those most closely connected to the deceased.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims

Timely filing is critical in wrongful death cases:

  • For deaths occurring before July 1, 2024, families have 1 year from the date of death to file a claim.
  • For deaths occurring on or after July 1, 2024, Louisiana’s new law extends the deadline to 2 years from the date of death.

Two years may sound like a lot of time, but it’s important to start your claim as soon as possible to give your legal team time to build your case before the statute of limitations passes.

Comparative Fault

Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault rule under Civil Code Article 2323, which allows families to recover damages even if their loved one was partially at fault for the incident. 

However, the compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the deceased. For example, if your loved one is found 20% at fault, your damages would be reduced by 20%. This law ensures that fault does not entirely bar families from pursuing justice.

Survival Action

Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315.1, families can file a survival action to recover damages for the pain and suffering endured by their loved one before death. 

This claim is separate from a wrongful death claim and seeks compensation for the physical and emotional pain the deceased experienced between the injury and their passing. With a survival action, the victim’s suffering is acknowledged and accounted for in the legal process.

Struggling After Your Accident? We're Here to Help.

At Rice & Kendig, our Shreveport car accident lawyers have more than 40 years of experience helping clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Get your free case review now!

No Fee Unless We Win For You

Free Consultation

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772
TESTIMONIALS

Success Stories of Honor
and Healing

  • I knew that they would take care of us, and I would definitely recommend them to anybody.

  • Rice & Kendig are very good at seeing what the weakness in our case is and what the strength is and developing both sides of the case.

  • They take great care of you. They care, and they make sure that you get what you need, they make sure that you're okay.

  • I suggest Rice & Kendig if you want someone who cares about you and your situation.

  • They did such a good job fighting for us and not dragging it on... Thanks to Rice & Kendig, the matter was over within a year.

  • He called me every day, made sure I was okay... he was just perfect. You couldn't ask for a better attorney.

  • They took care of us right away. They were loving.

BENEFITS

Why Families Choose Rice &
Kendig for Wrongful Death Claims

When you’re grieving the loss of your loved one, you need a dedicated team to handle the legal process for you. We offer:

  • Personal Attention That Puts Your Family First
    Your case is personal to us. Senior partners handle every detail with care and respect, ensuring your family gets the attention it deserves during this challenging time.
  • Decades of Experience Paired With Relentless Advocacy
    For over 50 years, we’ve fought for justice on behalf of Shreveport families. Our deep understanding of Louisiana’s courts, combined with our drive to win, ensures your case is handled with unparalleled expertise.
  • The Power and Resources to Take On Tough Opponents
    Wrongful death cases often mean facing large corporations or insurance companies with extensive legal teams. With Rice & Kendig, you have the financial strength, expert network, and legal strategies needed to stand up to even the most powerful opponents.
  • Transparent Communication to Ease Your Burden
    We believe that clear communication is essential, especially during a time of loss. You’ll always know where your case stands, receive regular updates, and have your questions answered promptly and honestly.
  • No Win, No Fee — Justice Without Financial Risk
    You shouldn’t have to worry about legal fees while grieving. With our contingency fee structure, you pay nothing upfront and owe us nothing unless we win your case, allowing you to focus on healing.
  • Bilingual Legal Support for Every Family
    We proudly serve Spanish-speaking families with bilingual legal services to ensure nothing is lost in translation. Language will never stand in the way of the justice you deserve.
Your Local Advocates:

Compassionate Support for

Wrongful Death Cases Across

Northern Louisiana

When the unthinkable happens, Rice & Kendig is here to provide unwavering support for families who have lost a loved one due to negligence. Our dedication to families extends across Northern Louisiana, including:

Office Address

912 Kings Highway Shreveport, Louisiana 71104

Let Rice & Kendig Help Your Family Find Justice:

Call Us Today!

Losing a loved one is heartbreaking, but you don’t have to face this fight alone. At Rice & Kendig, we’re here to guide your family through every step, holding negligent parties accountable and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Every moment matters. The sooner we begin building your case, the stronger it will be. Contact our compassionate Shreveport wrongful death attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us stand with you and fight for justice.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions


‍About Personal Injury Cases in Caddo Parish

  • If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions, you may have a wrongful death case. At Rice & Kendig, we offer a free case evaluation to review the details of your situation and explain your legal options. Call us at (318)222-2772.

  • A survival claim allows the deceased person’s estate to seek damages for the pain, suffering, medical expenses, and lost income the victim endured before their death. On the other hand, a wrongful death claim focuses on the losses suffered by family members after their loved one’s passing. This can include loss of financial support, companionship, and funeral expenses.

  • The timeline for a wrongful death case depends on its complexity. Some cases settle in a matter of months, while others, particularly those involving disputes or corporate defendants, can take a year or more. 

    Our Shreveport wrongful death attorneys work diligently to resolve your case as quickly as possible without compromising the compensation your family deserves.

  • Louisiana law specifies who has the legal right to file a wrongful death claim, starting with the deceased’s spouse and children. If no spouse or children survive, the right moves to the parents, then siblings, and so on. 

    At Rice & Kendig, we understand the sensitive nature of these situations. Our attorneys work to mediate family disagreements respectfully, providing guidance and clarity about the legal process so everyone feels heard while ensuring the claim is pursued effectively.