A Closer Look at Wrongful Death Claims  

A loved one’s tragic, untimely death can impact their spouse and children in so many ways. Beyond the loss of their companionship and support, the death of a parent or spouse can be financially devastating.

In cases where a careless or negligent act caused a tragic death, family members may consider filing a wrongful death civil lawsuit against the party or parties responsible. The purpose of a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania is to seek compensation for the medical care and funeral costs and to offset the income the victim would have brought to the family moving forward.

While no amount of money can ever make up for the loss of a loved one, it is important to take steps to ensure your family is financially prepared for the future. The following is what you need to know about wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Pennsylvania and throughout the country, certain family members can bring a wrongful death claim depending on their relationship to the deceased. Immediate family members including a spouse, children, adopted children, and parents can usually bring a claim. In some cases, siblings, grandparents, life partners, or financial dependents may also bring a claim.

Possible Wrongful Death Scenarios

You may consider a wrongful death claim if your loved one passed from:

• A car accident
• A doctor’s mistake
• An unsafe product
• A truck accident
• An accident at work
• A bike or motorcycle crash
• Nursing home abuse or neglect

Possible Damages in Wrongful Death Claims

If you suspect your family member’s death was caused by a person or company’s negligence, you should share your concerns with an experienced Pennsylvania wrongful death lawyer. Your lawyer will carefully review all the details around the victim’s passing to determine if their death was preventable, and if so, what went wrong. Compensation may be available for:

• Costs associated with your loved one’s medical care, hospitalization, and funeral and burial expenses
• The loss of their emotional support, comfort, and guidance
• The income they would have contributed to the family over their lifetime for clothing, food, shelter, and other living expenses

Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Fight for Victims of Preventable Accidents

If you or a loved one has been harmed by the negligent or reckless acts of another, attorneys at Galfand Berger LLP can help. Call 800-222-USWA (8792) or complete the online contact form to schedule a free case review with an experienced Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer today. With offices located throughout greater Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients in and around Allentown, Bethlehem, Lancaster, Reading, and Harrisburg and all of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.