Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Lawyer

The loss of any loved one is a tremendous burden for a family to endure. A family’s burden only increases when such a loss is due to someone’s negligent or even willful actions.

If you have recently lost a parent, child, spouse, or another close family member in such a way, a Pennsylvania wrongful death lawyer could help. A compassionate and experienced personal injury attorney could work to uncover any acts of negligence, recklessness, or wrongdoing that led to your loved one’s passing while seeking maximum compensation from all responsible parties.

Circumstances Leading to Wrongful Death Claims

A case for wrongful death may arise from various potential circumstances. Fatal car accidents, motorcycle collisions, bus wrecks, truck crashes, and other roadway incidents may lead to a wrongful death claim.

Death resulting from a hazardous or defective consumer product, medical misconduct, or property owner negligence may support a wrongful death claim. Even in the case of actions that fall under the purview of criminal law, such as murder, a Pennsylvania lawyer could still help to bring forward a civil claim for wrongful death compensation against the defendant or defendants involved.

Timeline and Standing to Bring a Wrongful Death Case

Under 42 Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5524, the general timeline to bring a wrongful death claim is two years. This two-year period begins on the date of the decedent’s passing. While there may be exceptions that could otherwise lengthen the wrongful death statute of limitations, speaking with an attorney in Pennsylvania at the earliest possible opportunity ensures any prospective legal action occurs promptly.

State law is also particular regarding who may bring a wrongful death case forward. According to 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 8301, the decedent’s surviving spouse, parents, or children may pursue a wrongful death case seeking monetary damages. In situations where close family members cannot pursue a claim, the personal representative of the decedent’s estate may do so.

Types of Wrongful Death Compensation

There are a few types of compensation that a Pennsylvania lawyer could help a decedent’s family or personal representative recover in a successful wrongful death claim. These could include expenses incurred by the estate due to the decedent’s passing, such as burial and funeral costs.

Other types of compensation for specific expenses, like the decedent’s medical care leading up to their death, may also be available. A family member could also claim reimbursement for losses without a particular dollar amount, such as loss of enjoyment of the decedent’s company, a spouse’s loss of consortium, or future loss of the decedent’s wages or other financial support.

Speak with a Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Attorney Today

No monetary recovery could ever compensate for the loss of a loved one nor make this time any less painful. However, a wrongful death claim could help you pursue justice in the form of a civil case for compensation while lessening the financial burden that your family may be experiencing due to this enormous loss.

A Pennsylvania wrongful death lawyer could answer your questions thoughtfully and carefully analyze all details of the potential case. Our team could help you determine the best course of action. Call today to schedule a confidential and personal legal consultation.