Surviving family members are usually overwhelmed when they lose a loved one unexpectedly and should consider contacting a wrongful death lawyer in Martinsburg, WV. A wrongful death claim can be filed when someone died because of negligence or an intentional act of another individual. It can result from a vehicular accident, medical malpractice, intentional killing, and many other types of personal injury situations. The only exception to a personal injury is when it involves a worker whose injuries resulted in their death. In those types of situations, their death should be handled through the workers’ compensation system.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
A spouse, parent or child can bring a wrongful death claim against a negligent party. In some cases, a representative of the estate can bring an action on behalf of the survivors who are related to the deceased victim. Any money the representative of the estate receives is usually deposited into the estate for disbursement per the final wishes of the deceased loved one.
What Damages Can Be Compensated?
With the help of a wrongful death lawyer in Martinsburg, WV, a survivor might be able to receive compensation for funeral and burial costs. In addition, survivors might receive compensation for the deceased person’s pre-death pain or suffering. These include medical costs incurred before their death, lost income the individual was expected to receive, loss of consortium, love, caring, guidance, nurturing, companionship, inheritance, and many other benefits the victim offered to their loved ones.
Paying for a Lawyer
Surviving members will not have to worry about money to pay a wrongful death lawyer. The lawyer will offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they will only receive compensation if they win the case.
If you recently lost a loved one in an unexpected accident, don’t let the negligent party go unpunished. Speaking with an experienced lawyer or having them represent you in the case will not cost you any money. For more information, please visit Lshermanlawfirm.com.