Skilled, Compassionate Wrongful Death Lawyers Serving Chester County, Pennsylvania
Losing a loved one is devastating under any circumstances. When that loss results from someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, families face not only profound grief but also financial hardship and unanswered questions. Pennsylvania law recognizes the rights of families who have lost loved ones due to another party’s actions. At Donze & Donze Attorneys at Law, our attorneys stand ready to help families throughout Chester County pursue the compensation and accountability they deserve.
Our husband-and-wife lawyer team has served Pennsylvania families since 1979, bringing more than 75 years of combined experience to every case we handle. We understand that no amount of money can replace a beloved family member, but fair compensation can help surviving relatives address medical bills, funeral expenses and lost financial support.
What Constitutes A Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to another party’s negligent, reckless or intentional actions. Common scenarios that may give rise to wrongful death claims include:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Collisions involving cars, trucks, motorcycles or pedestrians where driver negligence causes fatal injuries
- Workplace incidents: Construction accidents, industrial equipment failures or other on-the-job fatalities resulting from unsafe conditions
- Medical negligence: Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication mistakes or other health care failures leading to patient death
- Defective products: Dangerous consumer goods, malfunctioning equipment or unsafe medications that cause fatal injuries
- Premises hazards: Slip-and-fall accidents, inadequate security or other dangerous property conditions resulting in death
These circumstances share a common thread – a life lost due to preventable actions or omissions by another party.
Who Can File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit In Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law establishes specific rules about who may bring a wrongful death action. The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate typically files the lawsuit on behalf of eligible family members. Surviving spouses, children and parents generally have the right to pursue these claims.
Compensation Available In Wrongful Death Cases
Families may recover various types of damages through wrongful death claims. Financial recovery can include funeral and burial costs, medical expenses incurred before death, loss of the deceased’s expected earnings and benefits, and loss of companionship and guidance.
Time Limits For Filing
Pennsylvania imposes a statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. Families generally have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing the right to pursue compensation, making prompt action important.
Contact Donze & Donze Attorneys at Law Today
If you have lost a family member due to someone else’s negligence in Chester County, we can help. Call Donze & Donze Attorneys at Law at 610-472-9120 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
