Losing a loved one is a heartbreaking experience. It can be even more difficult when someone’s death was caused by carelessness or negligence. Our personal injury attorneys at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices provide compassionate, skilled legal representation. We’ve helped hundreds of families recover maximum compensation in wrongful death claims after the unfortunate loss of a loved one.
Wrongful Death
Pennsylvania law defines wrongful death as a death that’s “caused by the wrongful act or neglect or unlawful violence or negligence of another.” Typically, if there’s a basis for a personal injury claim had the deceased person lived, a wrongful death and survival action claim can be pursued. In other words, claims can be brought even though the victim is no longer able to bring their own claim against the negligent party.
It’s also important to keep in mind that even if a negligent party is facing criminal charges, a civil wrongful death lawsuit can be filed. If criminal charges are pending or a trial is still ongoing, it’s critical to seek the counsel of a knowledgeable attorney to avoid legal complications that may throw a wrench in your claim.
Who Can File A Wrongful death and Survival Action Claim?
In Pennsylvania, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate may bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of the estate’s beneficiaries. If a wrongful death claim isn’t filed by the personal representative within six months of the date of death, a beneficiary of the estate can file a claim on behalf of all beneficiaries.
Recovering Damages In A Wrongful death Claim
At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad, we understand how stressful the emotional and financial repercussions of the death of a loved one can be. While no amount of money can bring back your loved one, recovering compensation can help assuage the financial burden that often goes along with the wrongful death of a child, spouse or parent. We fight for your rights and work tirelessly to get the justice and compensation your family deserves.
Damages that may be recovered in a survival action claim include:
- Medical expenses incurred before the death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Estate administration expenses
- The decedent’s future lost wages and benefits
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of guidance, companionship, and consortium
Wrongful death claim damages are intended to compensate the surviving family members for losses related to their loved one’s death. If there’s no spouse or surviving family members, these types of damages cannot be recovered. However, a personal representative of an estate may seek damages for medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, and estate administration expenses to compensate the estate for costs related to the wrongful death, even if there are no surviving relatives.
Our personal injury attorneys are well-versed in handling these types of claims and understand how to accurately value the amount of compensation to which you may be entitled. Multiple parties may be liable for your damages and losses. We pursue all possible avenues of compensation to find justice for your loved one and your family. Our attorneys have a proven track record of success when it comes to recovering maximum compensation for our clients in motor vehicle accident cases, claims involving drunk drivers, and other types of wrongful death claims.
Statutes Of Limitations For Filing Wrongful Death Claims In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania personal injury and wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of the death unless an exception applies. That’s why it’s vital to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney as soon as possible if you believe your loved one was killed due to someone else’s negligence. Depending on the specific circumstances, exceptions may apply, and having the knowledge of skilled personal injury attorneys in your corner can help ensure your rights are protected.
Contact An Attorney For Assistance With Your Wrongful Death Claim
Our caring, compassionate legal team at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad can determine whether you have a viable wrongful death claim and advise you on the best course of action to recover maximum compensation. With four convenient locations to choose from, our Lehigh Valley attorneys make it easy to find the top-notch legal representation you need.
Our offices are located in Bath, Allentown, Stroudsburg, and Topton, Pennsylvania. Call us today at (610) 867-2900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Our personal injury attorneys are well-versed in handling these types of claims and understand how to accurately value the amount of compensation to which you may be entitled. Multiple parties may be liable for your damages and losses. We pursue all possible avenues of compensation to find justice for your loved one and your family. Our attorneys have a proven track record of success when it comes to recovering maximum compensation for our clients in motor vehicle accident cases, claims involving drunk drivers, and other types of wrongful death claims.
Statutes Of Limitations For Filing Wrongful Death Claims In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania personal injury and wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of the death unless an exception applies. That’s why it’s vital to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney as soon as possible if you believe your loved one was killed due to someone else’s negligence. Depending on the specific circumstances, exceptions may apply, and having the knowledge of skilled personal injury attorneys in your corner can help ensure your rights are protected.
Contact An Attorney For Assistance With Your Wrongful death Claim
Our caring, compassionate legal team at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad can determine whether you have a viable wrongful death claim and advise you on the best course of action to recover maximum compensation. With four convenient locations to choose from, our Lehigh Valley attorneys make it easy to find the top-notch legal representation you need.
Our offices are located in Bath, Allentown, Stroudsburg, and Topton, Pennsylvania. Call us today at (610) 867-2900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.