Losing a loved one unexpectedly is devastating. At Freeburn Law, our Pennsylvania wrongful death attorneys understand that no amount of compensation can replace your loss. But we are here to help you seek justice and financial support during this difficult time. As a leading wrongful death attorney in PA, we are dedicated to supporting families who are dealing with the aftermath of a fatal accident in Pennsylvania.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Pennsylvania?
A wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the wrongful act of another person, including negligence, assault and battery, or vehicular manslaughter. In Pennsylvania, a wrongful death can serve as the basis for a lawsuit against the person or party responsible.
If your loved one’s death was caused by another’s negligence or wrongful conduct, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania. At Freeburn Law, we take the time to listen to your story and develop a strategy that addresses your concerns and aims for the best possible outcome for your wrongful death claim.
How Pennsylvania Law Defines Wrongful Death
Pennsylvania law recognizes wrongful death claims when the death results from the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another individual or entity. This includes deaths caused by drunk drivers, medical errors, dangerous products, or workplace accidents. Our attorneys are experienced in handling wrongful death cases and will fight to protect your rights to full and fair compensation.
Examples of Negligence That Can Lead to Wrongful Death
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents involving impaired or distracted drivers
- Workplace accidents or construction fatalities due to unsafe conditions
- Medical malpractice or nursing home negligence
- Defective products or dangerous equipment
- Death caused by a drunk driver in PA
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate, often the executor named in the will, can file a wrongful death claim. If no will exists, another qualified individual may be appointed to handle the estate and pursue the claim. At Freeburn Law, we understand your confusion and anxiety, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Role of the Estate Representative and Beneficiaries
The estate representative is responsible for initiating the claim and representing the interests of the surviving family members. Beneficiaries may include spouses, children, parents, and other dependents who have suffered financially or emotionally due to the loss.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
- Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Accidents: Fatal accidents caused by negligent or impaired drivers can lead to a wrongful death claim. Our car accident wrongful death lawyer PA team is experienced in holding negligent parties accountable.
- Workplace Accidents and Construction Fatalities: Workplace fatal injury lawyers at Freeburn Law represent families who have lost loved ones due to unsafe working conditions or employer negligence.
- Medical Malpractice and Nursing Home Negligence: When a death is caused by medical malpractice, our medical malpractice death attorney team will investigate and pursue justice for your family.
- Defective Products and Dangerous Equipment: Families may seek compensation if a loved one’s death was caused by a defective product or dangerous equipment.
What Compensation Is Available for Families?
Along with the pain and suffering of losing a loved one comes the concern of medical bills, future lost income, and funeral expenses. If someone has died due to the negligence of another individual, hospital, or company, they can be held responsible for compensating damages the surviving family members could undergo due to the death of a loved one.
Wrongful death damages Pennsylvania may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the deceased’s wages and future earning potential
- Hospital and medical bills related to the fatal incident
- Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members
The wrongful death settlement amount PA varies based on the circumstances of each case, but our goal is to seek full compensation for your family.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in PA?
The statute of limitations in the state of Pennsylvania for filing a wrongful death claim is 2 years following the date of the deceased’s death. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing the right to recover compensation. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact a wrongful death attorney for a free consultation.
How Freeburn Law Proves Fault and Liability
Our attorneys gather evidence, consult experts, and build strong cases to prove negligence in a Pennsylvania wrongful death claim. We work tirelessly to hold the responsible party accountable and secure justice for your family. At Freeburn Law, we take the time needed to listen to your concerns and develop a strategy to win your case with maximum results.
What to Expect When You File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
- Free Consultation: Your first step is to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our wrongful death attorneys. We’ll listen to your story and help you understand your legal options.
- Case Evaluation and Evidence Gathering: We’ll assess your family’s legal rights and begin collecting evidence to support your claim, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- Determine Legal Responsibility: Our team will identify who is legally responsible for your loved one’s death and determine the compensation your family may be entitled to under Pennsylvania law.
- File the Wrongful Death Claim: The personal representative of the deceased’s estate will file the claim in Pennsylvania court. This step must be completed within two years of the date of death.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies, using the evidence gathered to negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Discovery Phase: Both sides will exchange information, including medical records and witness depositions. This phase helps build a strong case for trial if needed.
- Trial (If Necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial. Our attorneys will represent your family in court to seek the compensation you deserve.
- Resolution and Compensation: Whether through settlement or trial verdict, we’ll work to secure the full compensation available for your family’s losses.
Our team will guide you through every stage, ensuring you understand your rights and options at each step.
Why Choose Freeburn Law to Handle Your Case?
We’ve helped families throughout Pennsylvania pursue justice after the wrongful death of a loved one. Our attorneys are experienced in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases, and we take pride in delivering the compassion and results our clients need.
We have offices across Central Pennsylvania — including Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Lebanon, King of Prussia, Johnstown, Kingston, Lewistown, and Selinsgrove. If you’re unable to visit us, we’ll come to your home or meet you in the hospital. We’re available 24/7 — including evenings and weekends — to talk when you’re ready.
Call Freeburn Law for a Free Consultation Today
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney in PA today. Freeburn Law offers free consultations to discuss your case, explain who can file wrongful death in PA, and help you understand your rights. Let us help you seek justice and the compensation your family deserves. Contact our Pennsylvania wrongful death attorneys today to discuss your claim.
