The grief and sadness experienced after losing a loved one can be overwhelming, and that grief is only multiplied if their death was caused by someone else’s negligence. If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of a driver, employer, manufacturer, or anyone else, filing a wrongful death action might not be the first thing on your mind.
Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C., P.C is a family-owned firm that concentrates on recovering the damages you deserve while dealing with employers, insurance companies, and other parties on your behalf. We know we cannot lessen the suffering you are going through, but we do all we can to ease the legal and financial burden on you and your family in a swift, respectful, and compassionate manner, giving you the time and space you need to grieve.
Below are several questions that you, as someone affected by a wrongful death, need to know the answers to. Being aware your rights, and the rights of the deceased, are crucial to receiving the legal and financial peace you deserve.
Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?
Often times, insurance companies will try to exploit you in your grief by pressuring you into a settlement worth less than you are owed. You should never accept a settlement offer before an experienced personal injury lawyer has reviewed it.
Who can file a wrongful death action, and is there a statute of limitations for filing?
In most cases in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, you have up to two years from the date of the death to file a wrongful death action. If you miss that deadline, your right to compensation is forfeited. However, there is a lot that goes into the handling and filing of a wrongful death claim, so, the sooner you speak with an attorney about it, the better.
What do I need to prove in order to receive compensation for wrongful death?
Your wrongful death claim is based on a personal injury cause of action, and so you must prove that the defendant was negligent and that their negligence resulted in the death of your loved one.
What kinds of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death action?
Damages you are entitled to vary depending on the facts of your claim. However, some common damages include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- The injured party’s medical treatment
- Loss of a loved one’s lifetime income
- Lost benefits
- Loss of services
- Loss of companionship, love, and support
- Suffering and anguish
What if my loved one filed a personal injury lawsuit before dying?
Given that your loved one perished from the injuries they filed for, their personal injury suit survives their death. If you are an appropriate heir, you should receive the damages recovered in the personal injury claim.
What if my loved one died in a work-related accident?
Workplace fatalities must be thoroughly investigated to ensure that you receive all of the benefits you’re entitled to. The possible sources of compensation include workers compensation benefits, insurance payments and personal injury awards. If the death was caused by a malfunctioning piece of equipment, the manufacturer of that equipment may also be held accountable and forced to pay damages.
How can I afford to pursue my wrongful death claim?
The lawyers at Georgelis Law know that the period after a loved one’s death is difficult, both emotionally and financially. Our firm handles your claim on contingency, which means that you do not owe us any fees until you recover compensation. Contingency fees are based on a percentage of the amount recovered.
If you have a friend or loved one whose death was caused by another party’s negligence, contact the Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C. today for a commitment-free consultation. We are also available to meet with you at any time, including evenings and weekends.
