Seek Legal Assistance with Wrongful Death
Lawyers in the Lehigh Valley
The sudden and unexpected loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is an unimaginable tragedy. For those left behind, the emotional impact of such a loss can be overwhelming. In addition to grief and heartache, families are often left to face financial burdens that can further complicate the healing process Lehigh Valley wrongful death attorneys understand the pain and confusion that comes with such a loss, are here to offer compassionate legal support, and are dedicated to helping families navigate the complex legal process, ensuring that justice is served and the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions. A lawsuit can help you recover financially from the loss, covering funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages that result from the untimely passing of someone close to you. Our wrongful death attorneys in the Lehigh Valley are here to help you through this difficult time and advocate on your behalf to secure the compensation that families deserve.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim & Who Can File One in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, a wrongful death claim is a legal action filed by those who have lost a loved one due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. The goal of this kind of claim is to provide compensation for the emotional and financial losses resulting from the death. It is distinct from a personal injury claim, because it is filed on behalf of the deceased person. The survivors, also known as the plaintiffs, must prove that the defendant’s negligence or wrongful conduct directly caused the death.
In Pennsylvania, the individuals who are eligible to file a lawsuit include:
- Spouse
- Children (minor or adult)
- Parents
These individuals are typically the ones who suffer the most from the loss of a loved one. They may experience financial hardship as a result of the death, especially if the deceased person was a primary breadwinner or caretaker. Distant relatives such as cousins, aunts, and uncles cannot file a claim in Pennsylvania.
In some cases, the executor or administrator, the person who is responsible for the estate of the deceased, may also file the lawsuit on behalf of the family. However, the damages recovered from bringing a claim are typically distributed to the survivors based on their relationship to the deceased.
Filing a claim in Pennsylvania is a multi-step process that requires careful attention to detail and strict adherence to deadlines. Here’s a general summary of the steps involved in filing a lawsuit:
Consult an Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney in the Lehigh Valley
The first step in filing a claim for the death of your loved one is to speak with an experienced team. Our Lehigh Valley wrongful death lawyers offer a free consultation to assist you in understanding your rights under the law and how to file a claim. We’ll review the circumstances of your loved one’s death and help determine whether you have a viable claim.
Investigating the Incident
After you hire an attorney, they will begin looking into the details surrounding the death. This process may include reviewing medical records, obtaining accident reports, speaking to witnesses, and consulting with experts to help determine who is responsible. Your lawyer will also evaluate the financial and emotional impact the loss has had on you and your family.
Filing the Lawsuit
If the investigation reveals that someone else’s negligence or misconduct played a role in their passing, your lawyer will file your claim in the appropriate court. In the state of Pennsylvania, you usually have two years from the date of death to take legal action, so it’s essential to move forward without delay
Negotiating a Settlement
Many times, these cases are resolved outside of court through negotiations with the other party’s insurance company or legal representatives. Your attorney will advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive a settlement that fairly compensates you for both the financial and emotional losses you’ve endured.
Trial
If the case cannot be settled, your lawyer will take the case to trial. At trial, both sides will present evidence, and a judge or jury will determine whether the defendant is liable for the death. If the defendant is found guilty, the jury will award damages to the deceased’s survivors.
The Types of Damages A Lehigh Valley Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help You Recover
The purpose of this type of lawsuit is to help the surviving family members recover from both tangible and intangible losses. The most common types of damages that may be pursued in a claim include:
Funeral Costs
The expenses that accompany laying your loved one to rest, including funeral services, casket, burial plot, and any other burial expenses, can add up quickly. These expenses can be included as part of filing a claim.
Lost Wages
If the deceased person was the primary source of income in the family, the surviving spouse and children may be entitled to compensation for the lost income that the deceased would have contributed over their lifetime.
Loss of Companionship
The death of a spouse, parent, or child can result in an emotional loss that is difficult to quantify. In Pennsylvania, your family may be entitled to compensation for the loss of love, companionship, and guidance that the deceased would have provided.
Pain and Suffering
Although the victim may not be alive to experience pain, surviving families can seek compensation for the emotional distress, anxiety, and suffering caused by their loved one’s death.
Medical Expenses
If the deceased person was injured prior to their death, the family may be entitled to compensation for the medical expenses incurred as a result of the injuries.
Common Causes of Wrongful Deaths
Claims can arise from a wide variety of circumstances. Some of the most common causes include:
Medical Malpractice
If your loved one passed away because of a preventable medical mistake—such as a mistaken diagnosis, mistake during surgery, or medication error—you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Healthcare providers have a duty to provide competent care, and when they fail to do so, their negligence can lead to fatal consequences.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car accidents are one of the most common causes of death due to negligence. When another driver is negligent—whether due to speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or distracted driving—they can cause devastating crashes that result in fatalities. Pennsylvania law allows the survivors of victims killed in a car accident to file a claim against the at-fault driver.
Workplace Accidents
Many people die in work-related accidents each year, often as a result of unsafe working conditions, faulty equipment, or inadequate training. In some cases, benefits afforded by workers’ compensation may cover the immediate financial needs of your family. However, if the death was caused by an employer’s negligence, families may be entitled to additional compensation.
Premises Liability
If a loved one died because of an unsafe condition on someone else’s property—such as a slip and fall accident or a fall from an unsafe ladder—the property owner may be held responsible for the death.
Criminal Acts
In cases where the death occurs due to intentional harm, such as murder or manslaughter, the criminal justice system will prosecute the responsible party. In addition, families may be able to pursue a claim in civil court to recover damages for their loss.
Why You Should Hire Experienced Lehigh Valley Wrongful Death Attorneys
Wrongful death claims can be incredibly complex and emotionally charged. To successfully navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for surviving families, it is crucial to work with an experienced Lehigh Valley wrongful death attorney.
Our team of skilled Lehigh Valley wrongful death attorneys has years of experience handling complex cases and securing justice for families who have lost one of their own due to negligence. Here are a few reasons why hiring a wrongful death lawyer in the Lehigh Valley is crucial:
Expertise
Filing a claim requires a deep understanding of the law, the legal process, and what kind of evidence is needed to build a strong case. An experienced Lehigh Valley wrongful death attorney will have the knowledge and resources to handle your case.
Negotiation Skills
Insurance companies and defendants often try to settle for less than what victims deserve. A skilled wrongful death lawyer in the Lehigh Valley will know how to negotiate for a fair and just settlement.
Emotional Support
Dealing with loss is an emotionally taxing experience. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate legal representation and offering the support you need during this difficult time.
Understanding the Impact of a Tragic Loss on Your Family
Losing someone unexpectedly is a devastating experience. When that loss happens because someone was negligent or careless, the grief can feel even more overwhelming. In addition to the emotional pain, families are often faced with complex financial difficulties as they navigate this challenging time. We understand how difficult it can be to manage your grief while trying to resolve legal matters. Our goal is to provide you with not only professional legal support but also the empathy and understanding you will need to cope with the aftermath of this tragic event.
In addition to the immediate shock and sorrow that come with a sudden and unexpected passing, families may also struggle with unexpected financial pressures. If the deceased person was the main source of income or contributed significantly to the household, the survivors may face significant difficulties. This is particularly true if the passed on was a caregiver, such as a stay-at-home parent or someone who took care of elderly relatives. Other than these immediate concerns, there are the long-term effects on a family’s stability, such as loss of future earnings or the need for additional support.
Focusing on What Matters Most
At this difficult time, the last thing you need is additional stress. A wrongful death attorney in the Lehigh Valley understands the challenges you face, and we are committed to ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable, and that you receive the compensation necessary to support your future.
Maximizing Compensation
We will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available for your loss, helping you cover funeral costs, lost income, and emotional damages.
Providing the Support You Need
The grief caused by the loss of a loved one is a unique and personal experience, and everyone copes with the loss differently. We offer more than just legal representation—we provide compassionate support. A wrongful death lawyer in the Lehigh Valley is here to help you every step of the way, offering clear communication and ensuring that you understand all of your rights and options in this difficult time.
Why Seeking Legal Counsel is Critical
During a time of intense emotional distress, it can be incredibly difficult to think clearly about the next steps. However, acting quickly and seeking legal advice as soon as possible can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Pennsylvania law allows for certain individuals to seek compensation when the death was caused by negligence. But, these types of cases are on a time limit. If the appropriate legal steps are not taken within the designated period, you could lose the opportunity to seek compensation
Our attorneys are well-versed in the laws surrounding negligence claims and will ensure that all deadlines are met. A Lehigh Valley wrongful death lawyer will handle every aspect of the legal process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, so that you can focus on healing and being with the ones close to you during this challenging time
Contact Our Lehigh Valley Wrongful Death Lawyers Today
If you have lost a member of your family due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another, don’t wait to seek legal help. Our experienced wrongful death lawyers in the Lehigh Valley are ready to help. Reach out to schedule your free consultation today.