Losing a loved one is heartbreaking—especially when that loss is sudden, unexpected, and caused by someone else’s negligence. Philadelphia catastrophic accidents can change lives in an instant, and families are often left grieving and overwhelmed. When a loved one’s death results from someone’s reckless or negligent actions, a wrongful death claim can help your family find justice, financial relief, and even a sense of closure.
As an experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyer, I’m here to support you through every step of this process. In this post, I’ll walk you through what wrongful death claims involve, who can file them, and the types of compensation that may be available to your family.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought by the family of a deceased individual whose death was caused by another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. Unlike criminal cases, which aim to punish the wrongdoer, wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits. Their goal is to provide financial compensation to the surviving family members for their loss and the impact it has on their lives.
Wrongful death claims are often filed after incidents such as:
- Motor vehicle accidents (car, truck, or motorcycle)
- Medical malpractice or negligence in healthcare
- Workplace accidents or exposure to harmful substances
- Defective products or equipment malfunctions
- Premises liability incidents, such as unsafe conditions on someone else’s property
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Typically, only certain family members can bring a wrongful death claim. Laws vary by state, but most states allow immediate family members to file, including:
- Spouses and domestic partners
- Children (including adopted children in many cases)
- Parents (if they were dependent on the deceased for support)
In some situations, extended family members, such as siblings or grandparents, may also have the right to file. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your specific eligibility and rights in these claims.
Types of Compensation in Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death compensation is designed to address both the financial and emotional impact of your loved one’s passing. These damages may include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for any medical treatments or hospitalizations your loved one received as a result of the accident before their passing.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Wrongful death claims often cover these necessary expenses to ease the financial burden on the family.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings: If your loved one contributed financially to the household, you may receive compensation for the income they would have earned had they lived. This can include wages, benefits, and future potential earnings.
- Loss of Companionship and Emotional Suffering: Losing a loved one takes an emotional toll on the family. Courts recognize this pain and may award damages for loss of companionship, love, and guidance that the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of Support and Services: Compensation may be available for the loss of support and services your loved one provided to the family, from household duties to child care.
Why It’s Important to Work with an Experienced Lawyer
Wrongful death cases can be complex, with various factors to consider, such as insurance company negotiations, medical records, accident reconstruction, and expert witness testimony. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands wrongful death claims can make a world of difference.
As a compassionate and experienced attorney, I’m here to help. Not only can I guide you through the legal process with empathy, but I will also fight fiercely for the justice and compensation your family deserves. Wrongful death claims are not about placing a value on a life—they’re about helping families find the stability they need after experiencing a profound loss.
Why Call Richard Washington for Help
I’ve dedicated my career to helping families in situations just like yours, using my expertise to seek the justice and compensation they deserve. With me, you’ll find the legal knowledge and emotional understanding your family needs during this difficult time. Other lawyers may promise results, but I bring a personal commitment to each case, treating each family as if they were my own.
If you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one and think you may have a wrongful death case, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you with compassionate guidance and to advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Call Richard Washington today for a free, no-obligation consultation and let’s work together toward justice for your loved one.