Wrongful Death
Pittsburgh Wrongful Death Lawyer
Pennsylvania Fatal Accident Attorney
The death of a loved one is a terrible loss that no amount of money can replace. When the death is caused by the negligence or misconduct of another person or company, however, the victim’s family members have the right to pursue compensation. This compensation includes any damages that the victim would have been entitled to receive had he or she survived the accident.
While a wrongful death settlement will not make up for what has been lost, it can help many families deal with expenses and losses resulting from the accident that could continue to affect them long after the tragedy. At the Pittsburgh Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, our experienced personal injury lawyer, Mr. Mel Vatz can help you through the legal process related to wrongful death. We appreciate the difficult emotional, financial and legal issues that our clients are facing and work hard to provide the best resolution possible through legal action.
Types of Damages Recoverable in Wrongful Death Actions
For the families of fatal accident victims, a wrongful death action can provide compensation for a variety of expenses and losses caused by the accident. The Pennsylvania Survival Act allows the estate of the deceased individual to recover damages that the victim would have been eligible for had he or she survived the accident. These expenses include:
- Lost income from the time of the accident to the time of anticipated retirement
- Pain and suffering that the deceased went through from the time of the accident until death
- Medical expenses
- Property damage related to the accident
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of parental services and companionship
Under the Survival Act, any money recovered in a wrongful death action is distributed to the heirs to the estate in the same manner as assets of the estate. The Wrongful Death Act provides for compensation to spouses and minor children for the death of their husband and parent.
Of course, each case is different and there is no set amount or guarantee of what families members can and will receive in a wrongful death action. The outcome will ultimately depend on the circumstances of the accident and other factors relating to the estate of the victim. At the Law Office of Melvin L.Vatz, we will analyze your situation and provide an honest assessment of your case. If you are contemplating a wrongful death action, we can give you accurate and straightforward information that can help you make a responsible decision.
Contact Us to Speak to an Attorney With Your Needs in Mind
If you are suffering through the loss of a loved one and believe that their death was caused by negligence or misconduct, contact us at the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz and speak with an attorney. Located in Pittsburgh and serving the surrounding metropolitan area, our firm has helped many individuals and their families obtain compensation in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Call us at (412) 391-3030. We offer free consultations and you will pay no attorney fees unless you obtain compensation on your claim.