Can I file a claim for a fatal car accident in Pennsylvania?

hand resting on a casket with flowers

Being involved in a car accident can be an incredibly traumatic experience for the victims. However, when you lose a loved one in a collision, the loss can be earth-shattering. Unfortunately, the loved ones of the victim are often at a loss when it comes to receiving justice for the deceased. During these times, connecting with wrongful death attorneys to discuss your legal options following a fatal car accident is critical. Keep reading to learn more about the process of filing a claim.

How do I file a wrongful death claim following a fatal car accident?

When you lose a loved one due to the negligence of another person, the last thing on your mind is likely filing a claim. However, it is critical to ensure the negligent party is held responsible and you recover financial compensation to ease the monetary burden you may experience because of the loss.

Generally, the first step in filing a wrongful death claim is to locate the personal representative of the deceased estate, which should be explicated in their will. If the deceased did not have a will, someone may volunteer to serve as the representative in order to file the lawsuit.

Once you have filed the lawsuit you’ll need to provide evidence that helps prove the defendant’s negligence caused the death of your loved one. This includes the initial police report at the scene, any footage, photos, or witnesses, and the assistance of expert witnesses who can help establish fault based on the circumstances.

In addition to this evidence, you may also need to provide documentation about your loved one’s medical records. This is because the defendant may try and claim that the death was not their fault but rather related to a pre-existing medical condition the victim suffered. As such, medical records and healthcare professionals can help attest to the fact that these injuries were the cause of death for the victim.

Do I need an attorney for this process?

If you are pursuing compensation against a negligent party for the death of a loved one, connecting with an experienced attorney is critical. These cases are incredibly overwhelming, especially if you are still mourning the loss of your loved one. As such, it’s imperative to obtain competent legal representatives who understand the complexities associated with these matters.

When you are pursuing justice for the death of a loved one, ensuring you place your case in competent hands is critical. At Friedman Schuman, our dedicated legal team understands how devastating this can be. That’s why we are dedicated to fighting for you during these challenging times. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you through these complex times to fight on behalf of your loved one.

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