Losing someone you love is never easy, but when it happens because of the thoughtless actions of another person, it can seem almost impossible to process. Please know that you and your family have legal options during this difficult time, including the ability to recover a settlement from the at-fault party.
When someone’s negligent or intentional actions cause the death of someone else, a compassionate personal injury attorney at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya can help surviving family members pursue justice through a wrongful death action. For more information, schedule a consultation with our compassionate and seasoned Dover wrongful death lawyers.
Examples of Wrongful Death Case Causes
Laws require that everyone act reasonably and use caution to prevent causing harm to other people. Some examples of actions leading to wrongful death lawsuits include:
- Auto collisions, including those involving standard passenger cars, motorcycles, and commercial trucks
- Pedestrian, bicycle, or boating collisions
- Medical malpractice
- Dog bites or animal attacks
- Intentional criminal actions, such as violent attacks and the use of deadly weapons
Anyone performing potentially dangerous activities is legally responsible for using vigilance and avoiding causing physical or psychological injuries to the people around them. Therefore, failing to do so could prompt the decedent’s family to file a civil lawsuit to collect damages and losses from the liable party. A Dover attorney can gather the essential evidence and examine the case to determine who is responsible for the unlawful death.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
While families have the right to pursue legal action, the cases can be complex. Failing to comply with applicable laws could lead to additional hurdles. The civil statute dictates who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Dover, such as the surviving spouse, parents, children, or siblings. When the decedent has no living and eligible family members of the deceased, anyone related by blood or marriage may commence legal action.
Recoverable Damages
The plaintiff in a wrongful death claim could collect compensation for the following losses related to the loss:
- Lost wages and benefits surviving family members suffer as the wrongful death
- Lost contributions for support
- Lost parental, marital, and household services, including the care of minor children
- Mental or emotional distress and suffering for the spouse, children, or in some cases, parents
- Up to $7,000 in funeral or burial costs
After reviewing the case, a wrongful death lawyer in Dover can answer specific questions about the claims process and determine what damages family members could recover.
Time Frame to Take Legal Action
Wrongful death cases compensate families for the lost income, benefits, or financial support, as well as the pain and suffering they face after the sudden loss of a loved one. The Delaware Code Title 10, § 8107 sets the maximum time limit for filing wrongful death claims at two years from the date of the event or death if they did not pass away immediately. Failing to meet the legislation guidelines could prevent family members from recovering the fair compensation they deserve. Fortunately, a hardworking wrongful death attorney in Dover could help ensure they meet applicable deadlines.
Call an Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney in Dover Today
Losing someone you love is an unimaginable experience; you and your family deserve to be compensated for the pain you endured in the aftermath of their passing. With the help of a legal representative, you can take action in civil court against the person or business responsible for your loved one’s fatal injuries.
A dedicated Dover wrongful death lawyer understands the legal challenges you might face and can take the work off your hands so you can focus on your family. Call today to schedule an appointment and review your case and options immediately.
