How is Wrongful Death Defined in York?
York defines wrongful death under the Consolidated Statutes of Pennsylvania Title 42 § 8301(a) as a death resulting from a wrongful act, negligence, or unlawful violence. A wrongful death claim allows the surviving significant other of a wrongfully deceased party to seek financial compensation.
However, only the spouse, children, or parents of a wrongfully deceased party may recover compensation, known as damages. Determining which party has a valid negligent passing claim in York may require the assistance of a dedicated attorney with McDonald At Law.
Typical Causes of Wrongful Deaths
Wrongful deaths result from a variety of incidents. Most commonly, wrongful deaths involve various accidents such as automobile wrecks, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, and drownings.
Furthermore, work-related injuries can often lead to wrongful deaths. Unsafe working conditions, environments, or improperly stored or handled hazardous materials could cause the death of an employee. A work-related death may complicate a wrongful death claim depending on the circumstances and insurance policy of the employer.
In any case, the claimant must prove that another party was negligent or reckless and that their negligent or reckless act is the cause of the deceased party’s death. Proving duty, breach, causation, and appropriate damages for a loved one’s untimely loss may necessitate the use of a skilled lawyer at McDonald At Law in York.
Calculating the Value of a Wrongful Death in York
Calculating the value of a wrongful death claim is both a challenging and essential task requiring objectivity, experience, and knowledge. An eligible claimant may seek compensation for the medical costs, funeral costs, loss of companionship, the physical pain and suffering associated with their loved one’s death, and the decedent’s lost earnings. A season wrongful death attorney at McDonald At Law could estimate the value of a claim related to earnings by considering several factors, including:
- The age and health of the decedent before their untimely death
- Income at the time of death
- Current and future benefits
- The decedent’s potential future earnings
- The suffering the decedent experienced due to the injury that led to their death
Furthermore, the responsible party’s level of negligence or recklessness may also play a role in the final calculation. Wrongful death claims are complicated, with many moving parts and factors to keep in mind.
Reach out to a Skilled Wrongful Death Attorney in York
The immense grief from losing a loved one is a heavy load. But navigating a complex legal claim in the wake of that loss should never be an individual’s burden to bear. A York wrongful death lawyer could shoulder that burden on your behalf by representing you and seeking compensation for the loss of your loved one.
Financial recompense can help reduce financial hardships and provide you and your family with future security. Furthermore, there may be some measure of comfort by holding the responsible accountable. Get in touch with McDonald At Law today to learn more.
By contacting our office today, you can schedule a consultation to discuss your claim. We are here and ready to help.