Compassionate Representation By A Renton Wrongful Death Attorney After A Tragic Loss
Losing a loved one wrongfully is an unimaginable pain and we understand that no words can ease your sorrow. At the same time, you need accurate information to address associated legal matters. A successful claim can also yield financial damages, giving families some measure of economic stability during a challenging and uncertain time.
Wrongful death suits allow family members and loved ones to seek civil action against the party who took the life of the deceased. If you lost a loved one due to negligence, please reach out to the Renton wrongful death attorneys at Pendergast Law. Our compassionate legal team can provide thorough legal advice about how to move forward with a claim and advocate for proper compensation for your loss. Call us toll-free at 888-539-9211 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
Frequently-Asked Questions
Managing a wrongful death claim on top of the emotional upheaval you are experiencing can be overwhelming. The answers to these common questions can give you clarity and guidance.
What are Washington’s Wrongful Death Laws?
The state of Washington wrongful death laws outline the specific processes and regulations regarding filing a civil suit for the loss of a family member, including who can file a claim, what damages are available, and what is necessary to receive compensation. Under these laws, a plaintiff can seek compensation for the death of a loved one or family member in much the same way as a personal injury claim, but only if the death was the result of an injury they suffered because of someone else’s negligent or reckless actions. Wrongful death claims are based on the concept that, if the deceased had survived, they would have been able to pursue a personal injury claim. In addition, the only individual who can file a wrongful death claim is the representative of the deceased’s estate. This can be an individual named in the deceased’s will or a legal representative named after their death, such as an attorney.
Who Can File A Wrongful Death Claim in Renton?
A claim must be filed by the deceased’s representative, but they can only do so on behalf of the victim’s family or loved one. This means that only a select group of individuals can receive compensation in a wrongful death claim depending on whether or not the deceased was married, had children or looked after other dependents.
The individuals who can file a wrongful death claim include the deceased’s:
- Spouse
- Domestic partner
- Children and stepchildren
- Grandchildren
If the deceased was not married or had children, then the deceased parents or siblings can file a claim.
What Kind Of Damages Can Be Included In A Wrongful Death Case?
Like personal injury claims, wrongful death claims can include both economic and non-economic costs, but with some variations. Economic costs for a wrongful death claim can include:
- Medical expenses related to the injury that led to their death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost waves based on life expectancy and potential earnings
- Lost potential earnings if the victim was a minor
In addition to economic damages, a wrongful death claim can include non-economic damages that account for:
- Pain and suffering of the deceased before their passing
- Anxiety and emotional distress suffered by the deceased as a result of their injury
- Loss of companionship, care and other intangible benefits to the deceased’s loved ones
What types of incidents can lead to a wrongful death claim?
Several situations can give rise to a claim. Examples include fatal car and trucking accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, defective products and criminal acts. If the death occurred due to another’s negligence, recklessness or intentional wrongdoing, you may have grounds for a claim.
Who can be held liable in a wrongful death lawsuit?
Liable parties may include negligent drivers, trucking companies, vehicle manufacturers, medical professionals, employers, property owners or any individual or entity whose conduct contributed to the death. Our legal team can help conduct a thorough investigation to identify all potentially liable parties.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim?
In Washington State, families typically have three years from the date of death to file a claim. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation. Timely legal action is crucial, and our team can help you meet all relevant deadlines to protect your rights.
Can a wrongful death claim arise from a workers’ compensation case?
In some cases, yes. If the death was caused by a third party, such as a contractor, subcontractor or equipment manufacturer, family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Damages can include compensation for pain and suffering, loss of life, enjoyment in life and loss of consortium. Our experienced attorneys can help identify potentially liable third parties.
Hire A Renton Wrongful Death Attorney Who Advocates For Grieving Families
Pursuing a wrongful death claim is an extremely difficult process on your own. You will have to navigate complex legal procedures, collect evidence of negligence, determine liability, calculate damages, and negotiate with the at-fault party’s representative, such as an insurance company.
The team at Pendergast Law has worked with multiple clients who have suffered catastrophic losses and can provide sympathetic legal representation through the entire process. When we take on a case, our goal is to take on the legal burdens so you can focus on grieving and processing your loss without the added stress of filing a claim. To learn how our Renton personal injury attorneys can represent you in a wrongful death claim, contact us toll-free at 888-539-9211.