When a person's death is caused by the negligent acts of another person, such as in cases of medical malpractice or automobile accidents, legal claims can arise. Under Pennsylvania state law, the spouse, children, and/or legal heirs of the deceased person (decedent) may have the right to pursue monetary damages on their own behalf, on behalf of the decedent, or on behalf of the decedent's estate.
At Leeson & Leeson, our Pennsylvania wrongful death attorneys represent clients throughout all of Eastern Pennsylvania, including those injured in Lehigh, Northampton, Bucks, Schuylkill, Carbon, and Monroe counties. If you have questions about an accidental death case, please contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
#1 - Wrongful death is a death that results from the negligence of another party.
A wrongful death claim arises when your loved one passes away due to the negligence of another party. This could include situations such as medical malpractice or a car accident.
#2 - Only certain people can bring a wrongful death lawsuit on the decedent's behalf.
In Pennsylvania, only specific parties may bring a wrongful death lawsuit on the decedent's behalf. This includes their children, spouse, and any other legal heirs. Eligible parties who bring a claim will be called the 'plaintiff' in the lawsuit and have the right to pursue compensation for damages resulting from the wrongful death.
#3 - You only have a specific period of time to bring a wrongful death lawsuit.
Pennsylvania has a 'statute of limitations,' which limits the amount of time you have to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In this state, a wrongful death claim must be brought within two years of the decedent's death. If the claim is not brought within that time period, it is unlikely you will be able to pursue the lawsuit.
#4 - You may be entitled to receive compensation for damages resulting from the wrongful death of your loved one.
According to Pennsylvania law, in a Pennsylvania wrongful death action, the plaintiff may be entitled to recover, in addition to other damages, damages for reasonable hospital, nursing, medical, funeral expenses, and administration expenses necessitated by reason of injuries causing death.
Suppose no person is eligible to recover damages. In that case, the deceased's personal representative may bring an action to recover damages for reasonable hospital, nursing, medical, funeral, and burial expenses as well as the cost of administration necessitated by reason of injuries causing death. This would mean that there is no living spouse, children, or any legal heirs to bring the lawsuit. Therefore, the personal representative may bring suit in that circumstance.
#5 - Leeson & Leeson can help you and your loved ones today
At Leeson & Leeson, we understand the complexity of accidental death cases and are committed to providing our clients with high-quality legal services. For over fifty years, our law firm has been built on three fundamental pillars:
A deliberate commitment to the growth and development of others.
An unwavering dedication to integrity.
A strong work ethic.
Our clients can expect to receive legal services that meet or exceed the levels of proficiency that the Leeson family has maintained for the last fifty years. Please schedule a consultation today with our Bethlehem wrongful death attorney by calling 610-691-3320.