Wrongful Death
We are dedicated to helping the families of Pennsylvania wrongful death victims
The death of a loved one is the most difficult experience your family can endure. This is why the Law Office of George J. Costopoulos is dedicated to providing compassionate assistance and legal representation to those individuals who lose a family member due to the recklessness or carelessness of another.
In Pennsylvania, when the death of a loved one is due to someone else’s negligent or intentional behavior, the law allows family members to pursue an action for “wrongful death” and/or a claim known as a “survival action.” Examples of these cases include fatal motor vehicle collisions, pedestrian collisions, medical malpractice, and other incidents causing fatalities.
Because wrongful death is the most serious of all personal injuries, surviving family members may be entitled to substantial monetary compensation for the wide array of losses and damages which inevitably arise in these tragic cases. Of course, we recognize that a compensation award or settlement can never replace a loved one. Yet, these resolutions can bring closure to these painful ordeals and help surviving family members move forward with their lives.
Our office will represent your family with the personal attention and guidance these cases demand. We also handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, guaranteeing that our clients will pay nothing for our legal services unless we obtain a recovery on their behalf.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We will gladly schedule an appointment to suit your schedule.
A: A: Wrongful death is a civil claim for monetary damages against an individual or entity responsible for the death of a loved one. In such cases, the law recognizes that family members of a deceased victim suffer the loss of affection, guidance, companionship and financial support. A separate claim that may be pursued when a loved one is lost due to another’s fault is known as a “survival action,” and additional compensation may be available under this legal theory. Due to the complicated nature of these cases, family members who lose a loved one as a result of another’s negligence should always consult with a personal injury attorney for a thorough evaluation of their individual situations.
A: Wrongful death claims can result from a wide array of negligent acts caused by another including, but not limited to, automobile wrecks, motorcycle accidents, tractor trailer collisions, slip and falls, defective or dangerous products, and medical malpractice.
A: Pennsylvania law strictly governs who may pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of a victim who passes away due to the negligence of another. Generally, only family members of the victim may bring such claims, often the spouse, children or parents. It is very important, however, to contact a qualified Pennsylvania wrongful death attorney to determine who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
A: Dependents and beneficiaries of a wrongful death victim may be eligible to recover a wide array of monetary damages for their losses including, but not limited to, loss of companionship, guidance and affection, loss of financial support, pain and suffering, medical bills, and other expenses. Because the calculation of wrongful death damages is dependent on a variety of factors, it is imperative to seek the assistance of a qualified attorney for a complete evaluation.
A: As with a personal injury lawsuit, there is a “statute of limitations” deadline for filing a wrongful death claim. This deadline may vary from state to state and under certain circumstances. As a result, it is wise to contact a wrongful death attorney for more information about this issue.