Personal Injury:
Wrongful Death
"Joseph Cutter's law firm is hands down the best. They really helped me every step of the way when I got into my brother's wrongful death case. I was scared and had no idea what was going to happen, but they made me feel so comfortable and safe. One thing you can guarantee is that they are completely honest and trustworthy and have your back during the entire process!" Samuel
"Wow! I've never been a fan of lawyers. Always assuming they're gonna try to rip me off and that they won't really care about me or my story. These people are something else entirely! So happy I come to them." - Mildy
"Emotional supportive, explain process very well. Very patient and very understanding. - Trisha
Things To know:
Don't Give A Statement
Do not give a recorded or written statement, except to the police or your own insurance carrier.
Don't Sign Anything
Do not sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first. Insurance companies may trick you into not being compensated.
Take Photographs
Take pictures. Take photographs of the property damage and accident scene. Take pictures of any scarring or bruising.
Don't Discuss Your Injuries
Do not discuss your injuries with the at-fault insurance company. Do not answer any questions. We will handle this on you behalf so you don’t diminish your settlment value.
No Independent Medical Exam
Do not agree to any independent medical exam with anyone, including your own insurance company, without first speaking to an attorney.
Hire A Lawyer
By not hiring a lawyer you are leaving money on the table, Hiring a lawyer will grant you the ability to get compensated for your family member’s wrongful death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Damages Recoverable In Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Medical bills and expenses – In many wrongful death claims, hospitals will expect their bills to be paid even if the patient dies. Grieving families are often left with costly bills for medical treatment and other expenses. An experienced wrongful death lawyer may even be able to negotiate with medical providers and reduce these costs.
Lost wages and loss of future earnings – If the surviving loved ones were financially dependent on the deceased victim, the claimants may be able to recover damages for the financial support that they have lost. The amount of damages are usually based on the victim’s current, past, and future earnings, as well as education and future job prospects.
Pain and suffering – Not all accident victims pass away immediately. If a victim experienced significant pain and suffering before their death, a qualified wrongful death lawyer may factor the victim’s pain and suffering into the claim for damages.
Loss of consortium – Not all damages in a wrongful death lawsuit are economic. Family members grieving the untimely death of a loved one can also request compensation for their own suffering, including the loss of their loved one’s companionship.
Funeral expenses – Even a simple burial can cost family members tens of thousands of dollars. These damages can also be recovered in many wrongful death cases.
How Does Wrongful Death In Washington State?
Simply put, Washington state law permits the surviving family members of a person who has been killed by the wrongful act or negligence of another person to pursue a lawsuit against the responsible party or parties.
“When the death of a person is caused by the wrongful act, neglect or default of another, his personal representative may maintain an action for damages against the person causing the death.” Taken from (RCW 4.20.010).
Common Causes Of Wrongful Death
Car Accidents – Car and truck accidents are a leading cause of death in the United States and throughout the world. When an innocent driver is killed due to the negligence of another driver or party, the at-fault driver’s insurance policy should provide financial compensation to the surviving family members.
Bicycle Accidents – Bicyclists are especially vulnerable to serious injury or death in the event of a collision, because bicycles do not protect riders from impact with a car or truck. Again, the at-fault driver who causes a fatal collision should be held responsible and his or her insurance company will typically cover the damages that result from a fatal crash.
Semi-Truck Accidents – Commercial trucks often weigh hundreds of thousands of pounds, making them capable of causing serious injury or death in the event of a crash. Because large trucks are unable to stop as quickly as passenger vehicles, it is very common for victims to suffer fatal injuries in an accident.
Drunk Driving Collisions – Alcohol-impairment slows reaction time and greatly increases the chances of a collision. Because so many drunk driving crashes are head-on, the chances of serious injury or death is significantly higher.
Motorcycle Accidents – Motorcyclists, like bicyclists, are not afforded any protection by their own vehicles in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are often thrown from their bikes in even minor collisions, which greatly increases the chances of serious injury or death.
Pedestrian Accidents – These collisions are more likely to occur when visibility is difficult, and pedestrians are more likely to suffer serious injury or death due to their own increased vulnerability.
Dog Bites & Animal Attacks – Dog bites & animal attacks are rarely fatal, but infections and other health complications can lead to death. In fact, our attorneys have handled dog bite cases that have transformed into wrongful death cases after the victims developed major infections.
Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect – Nursing home and hospice residents are especially vulnerable due to the nature of their needs and limitations. When a nursing home puts profits above patient safety, the responsible parties should be held responsible for their actions.
How Long Do I Have To File A Wrongful Death Claim?
The Statute of Limitations (SOL) for a wrongful death lawsuit in Washington is typically three years from the date of the incident.
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