Autopsy
Definition
An autopsy is a medical examination of a deceased person’s body to determine the cause and manner of death. Autopsies are performed by forensic pathologists or medical examiners and involve external examination, internal examination of organs, laboratory testing, and toxicology analysis. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 49, autopsies may be required in deaths involving accidents, violence, or suspicious circumstances.
How It’s Used in Personal Injury Cases
In wrongful death cases, autopsy reports provide crucial evidence about the cause of death and its relationship to the defendant’s negligence. The autopsy establishes whether death resulted from accident injuries, identifies contributing factors, and can reveal pre-existing conditions. Defense attorneys may use autopsy findings to argue that death resulted from causes other than the accident. Plaintiffs use autopsy evidence to prove the connection between the defendant’s negligence and the fatal injuries.
Practical Example
After a fatal trucking accident, the defense claimed the deceased driver suffered a heart attack before the collision, arguing the trucking company was not at fault. The autopsy report conclusively showed the victim died from blunt force trauma consistent with the collision, with no evidence of heart attack or other medical emergency. The medical examiner’s findings established that the truck driver’s negligence directly caused the death.
Why It Matters to Your Case
In wrongful death claims, the autopsy report is often the most important piece of evidence establishing how your loved one died. It provides medical proof of causation that is difficult for defendants to dispute. If an autopsy was not performed or you believe the findings may be relevant to your case, discuss with your attorney whether additional expert analysis is needed.
Key Takeaway
Autopsy reports provide critical medical evidence of cause of death in wrongful death cases—these findings establish the essential connection between the defendant’s negligence and the fatal injuries.