View Location Wrongful death occurs when someone passes away due to the actions or negligence of another party. For example, perhaps someone loses their life in a car accident caused by a speeding driver.
If you’ve endured such a tragedy in Washington State, while nothing can change the past, you can seek compensation for certain losses (such as the loss of a loved one’s income, which could have played a significant role in your family’s well-being) by filing a wrongful death claim or lawsuit.
Discuss your case with Marysville wrongful death attorney Kelby Derenick of the Snohomish County Injury Attorney law firm for more information. He’ll offer warmth and guidance when you need it most.
Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death has many potential causes. Common examples include:
- Car accident
- Truck accident
- Bus accident
- Bicycle accident
- Pedestrian accident
- Medical malpractice
If you’re not sure whether the circumstances of your loved one’s passing qualify as an instance of wrongful death, schedule a consultation with a lawyer. They’ll answer your questions about this challenging topic.
Seeking Compensation for Wrongful Death in Washington State
The following parties may have the right to secure compensation for a loved one’s wrongful death in Washington State:
- The decedent’s spouse or state-registered domestic partner
- The decedent’s children
- The decedent’s stepchildren
- The decedent’s parents
- The decedent’s sibling
Whether any of the above may seek compensation for a loved one’s wrongful death can depend on certain factors. For instance, parents often only have the right to file a wrongful death claim or lawsuit if there are no surviving children or spouses. A Marysville wrongful death lawyer can answer your questions on this subject more thoroughly.
Losses/damages for which one may seek compensation in these circumstances include:
- Medical bills if the deceased received treatment before their death
- Funeral expenses
- Burial expenses
- Loss of the decedent’s financial support
- Loss of the decedent’s household services
- Loss of the decedent’s love, guidance, etc.
Parents of deceased children can seek compensation for additional losses that apply more specifically to the parent-child relationship.
Seeking compensation involves the following steps:
- Identifying the liable party
- Gathering evidence of negligence
- Determining approximately how much compensation may be owed
- Filing a claim with the insurance of the negligent party
- Filing a lawsuit if the negligent party was uninsured or their insurance carrier won’t offer a proper settlement
How a Marysville Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
You may already be struggling with a range of burdens in the aftermath of a loved one’s unexpected passing. You shouldn’t have to add to them by handling their wrongful death case yourself.
At the Snohomish County Injury Attorney law firm, Marysville wrongful death attorney Kelby Derenick offers compassionate but aggressive help during this challenging time. He can assist you by:
- Identifying the liable parties and gathering evidence of their negligence through an investigation
- Calculating how much your claim may be worth
- Filing your claim and handling negotiations with the insurance company
Nothing can fully replace a lost loved one. However, with help from a legal professional, you can pursue justice. Learn more by contacting our firm online or calling us at (360) 965-8251.
