Although the civil tort of wrongful death has similar definitions across the nation, each state has its own specific wrongful death statute. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 71.002 defines wrongful death as a loss of life caused by another person’s wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness or default (omission). In general, if a reasonable and prudent party most likely would have prevented your loved one’s fatal injury or illness in the same or similar circumstances, you will have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.