A loved one’s unexpected passing can cause their surviving family members to endure a variety of struggles. In the immediate aftermath of a death, surviving loved ones may endure emotional pain. In the long run, they might also have to adjust to life without the decedent’s income, companionship, and more.

Overcoming these struggles can be even more painful than it already is when a person dies as a result of another’s carelessness. That said, in Pennsylvania, the surviving loved ones of someone who died because another party was negligent should at least know they may be able to recover financial compensation for their losses.

Did your loved one die in the Norristown, PA area? Do you suspect their death resulted from negligence? Contact a Norristown wrongful death attorney at Dan Doyle Law Group if so. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and provide strong representation should you choose to work with us.

Norristown Wrongful Death Cases: How They Happen

A wrongful death occurs when someone passes away due to another party’s actions or negligence. Examples of failure that can result in wrongful death include (but aren’t limited to) the following:

  • A motorist causing a drunk driving accident
  • The designers or manufacturers of a product overlook a defect that puts consumers in harm’s way
  • A doctor failing to diagnose a patient in time to save their life
  • A property owner fails to address a hazardous condition on the premises that causes a fatal accident

It’s not always clear whether someone’s passing qualifies as an example of wrongful death. If you’re not sure whether you have grounds to file a claim or lawsuit seeking financial compensation after the demise of someone close, review your case with the experts at a Norristown wrongful death law firm. An attorney can determine whether you should take legal action.

Seeking Financial Compensation After a Loved One’s Wrongful Death in Norristown

Pennsylvania law allows the following individuals to pursue compensation in wrongful death cases:

  • A decedent’s spouse
  • A decedent’s children
  • A decedent’s parents if the decedent didn’t have children at the time of their death
  • Siblings if the decedent didn’t have living children, a spouse, or parents at the time of their death

The specific losses and damages for which such individuals may recover compensation can vary depending on numerous factors. Examples include:

  • Loss of the decedent’s income (including potential future earnings) and benefits
  • Loss of guidance/mentorship, such as the type of guidance a parent may offer a child
  • Loss of companionship/consortium
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Costs associated with medical treatment the decedent may have received prior to their passing
  • Punitive damages

How a Norristown Wrongful Death Attorney Helps

To recover compensation after a loved one’s wrongful death, you may typically file a claim with the insurance of the liable party. When doing so, be aware that an insurance company is unlikely to offer the full amount of compensation you deserve right away.

The insurer may attempt to deny your claim altogether by suggesting you haven’t provided sufficient evidence demonstrating your loved one died as a result of the insured’s negligence. If the insurance company can’t entirely deny your claim, the insurer may nevertheless offer less compensation than you’re owed.

This is one of many reasons it’s wise to seek legal representation before filing a claim or lawsuit. A Norristown wrongful death lawyer can help by:

  • Investigating your case to determine who the liable parties are
  • Gathering evidence of negligence
  • Calculating how much money you may deserve based on your past, current, and future losses
  • Negotiating aggressively if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement

Coping with a loved one’s unexpected passing is very challenging. Although a Norristown wrongful death attorney can’t bring your loved one back, the dedicated team at Dan Doyle Law Group can help you pursue financial compensation for your losses, easing some of your burdens during this painful time. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 215-987-3730.