What is a wrongful death?
Losing a loved one is an emotionally and physically exhausting experience. It can be especially difficult to understand when the death is caused by the carelessness, negligence or misconduct of another individual, company or entity. When someone dies from the negligence of others or through the intention of others, this is a wrongful death. Wrongful death lawsuits can be made for a variety of situations including auto accidents caused by another driver (particularly when the other driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol); dangerous roadway or defective vehicles; medical malpractice; abuse; nursing home abuse or neglect; negligence in the workplace; or when an individual is intentionally killed.
Dale E. Anstine, personal injury attorneys in York, PA, can help.
Our team of compassionate personal injury attorneys at Dale E. Anstine are ready to help you through a wrongful death suit. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible in a wrongful death case so you can start the process. Dale E. Anstine works with clients across Central PA and offers free consultations anytime so if you have questions, you can talk to us today.
Damages in a Pennsylvania wrongful death lawsuit
Most commonly, a wrongful death lawsuit or claim can be filed by a representative of the survivor who suffers damage either financial or emotional. This is usually the executor of the deceased’s estate, often an immediate family member, although not always. These individuals are called the real parties of interest. In wrongful death cases, which are civil cases, the defendant’s liability is strictly financial (as opposed to a criminal case where a conviction leads to sentencing of prison or other punishments). Damages in Pennsylvania may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Hospital and medical expenses
- Lost wages and benefits of the deceased had he or she continued working and contributing financially to the immediate family and financial dependents
- Compensation for pain and suffering (loss of companionship and comfort for the survivors)
- Estate administration expenses
Damages and compensation for pain and suffering are intended to provide financial resources to the surviving family members related to the loss of their loved one. These damages, therefore, are only available if the deceased leaves behind a spouse, children or parents.
Damages like medical and hospital bills, funeral and burial expenses, and administration costs, however, are available to compensate the estate of the deceased, even if there are no surviving relatives.
Contact Us Today
Wrongful death is devastating, but you are not alone. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our compassionate team of attorneys is ready to fight for you and your family.