Though most try their best to stay safe, accidents happen, and all it takes is one drunk or distracted driver to cause a catastrophic collision. Sadly, far too many people know what it feels like to lose a perfectly healthy loved one in an unanticipated way. If you lost a relative because of someone else’s recklessness, filing a wrongful death claim may not bring them back, but it will provide your family with some sense of justice. Here are answers to just a few of the most frequently asked questions about pursuing damages following a tragedy. 

Common Concerns About Wrongful Death Cases

What Constitutes Wrongful Death in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, the personal representative of a deceased person’s estate may file a wrongful death claim if the passing was the result of another party’s negligence, unlawful violence, or otherwise wrongful act. To recover compensation for ALL applicable damages, the plaintiff must prove the death could have been prevented had the defendant behaved as any other reasonable person would in the same situation. 

Who Is Entitled to Compensation From a Successful Claim?

There is a hierarchy of beneficiaries when distributing any compensation that results from a wrongful death claim. Potential recipients include the surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased. Pennsylvania’s laws of intestate succession will determine precisely how much each eligible party receives. 

How Do You Prove Fault?

The kinds of evidence that will build the strongest claim and ultimately prove fault depend on the circumstances of the death. Typically, though, claimants can demonstrate liability by establishing the defendant owed the deceased a duty of care and then somehow breached this duty, causing the conditions under which the death occurred. 

Why Should You Hire an Attorney?

Losing a loved one in a preventable accident is incredibly traumatic. No one should have to worry about navigating complicated legal proceedings while grieving. By hiring an attorney to handle the case, you can focus on your family. Having a seasoned lawyer by your side will also ensure you do not miss critical deadlines or overlook any damages when negotiating for a settlement.   

WHY HIRE US? Because we provide our clients with personalized compassionate care during the entire legal process.If you want proof of this just look at our Google reviews to decide for yourself!

If you want to file a Wrongful Death claim in Pennsylvania, turn to Bernard M. Tully Attorney at Law for compassionate guidance during every stage of the claims process. Based in Pittsburgh, this strategic personal injury lawyer has more than three decades of trial experience. His areas of legal concentration include Wrongful Death claims medical malpractice, motor-vehicle collisions, slip and fall cases work injuries. Visit his website or call (412) 281-8700 to schedule a free initial consultation.