If your loved one died in a tragic accident caused by negligence, your family deserves justice
Under any circumstances, there is nothing more heartbreaking than losing a loved one. However, when someone we love dies unexpectedly because of another’s mistake or negligence, the pain compounds. If you lost someone because of a car or truck crash, workplace accident, medical error or other preventable incident, you may be entitled to compensation. While no amount of money will ever replace your loss, a monetary award can help ease your financial stress. Additionally, you can seize the opportunity to hold responsible parties accountable. If you need a compassionate Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyer who will fight for you, you need Munley Law. When you need us, we will be here. Today, and every day, the consultation is always free, so call us today.
If you are mourning a wrongful death, you are not alone
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every year, 29.4 million Americans seek emergency room care for unintended injuries. Additionally, the CDC reports that 3.9 million visit doctors offices for accidental harm. In total, another’s negligence causes 169,936 deaths in the United States each year.
While you grieve, let our family take care of yours
At Munley Law, we know the unimaginable pain that a wrongful death accident creates for family members left to pick up the pieces. From our more than six decades working with victims’ families, we know how overwhelming it is to mourn a loved one who was taken too soon. However, we also know that death creates incredible costs and financial burdens. While you grieve, let us take on these concerns so you don’t have to. Our Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyers fight for accident victims to bring their families the peace and closure they deserve. As such, we are here to help you alleviate the strain of funeral and burial costs and life without your loved one’s earnings. Additionally, we are also here to hold the wrongdoers responsible for their actions. To speak with an award-winning Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyer from Munley Law, schedule your free consultation today.
Pittsburgh Wrongful Death Lawsuits FAQ
Q: Who can bring a wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the personal representative of the decedent’s estate must file a wrongful death case. However, the personal representative brings the case to court on behalf of the deceased person’s estate, not any living person. As such, if the personal representative fails to file the case within 6 months of your loved one’s death, any beneficiaries can file a claim on behalf of all of the beneficiaries.
Q: If I win my case, what am I entitled to?
If your wrongful death lawsuit results in a settlement or favorable jury verdict, you will be awarded monetary compensation will be awarded for damages. In most instances, damages are meant to compensate victims for their losses and the ways they suffered. While your damages will depend on the facts of your case, wrongful death damages frequently include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Your family member’s lost income
- Medical and hospitalization costs
- Loss of household services
- Loss of companionship
- Mental anguish and suffering
- If applicable, any lost benefits such as health insurance, Social Security, and pension plans
To learn more about damages, see our Munley Law blog post. To learn about the verdicts and settlements Munley Law lawyers won for our wrongful death clients, see our wrongful death cases page.
Q: How long do I have to file my claim?
Every state sets time limits for filing cases in state court called “statutes of limitations.” If a plaintiff fails to file their case in a Pennsylvania court before the time limit is up, the court must not hear the case. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit is 2 years. Unlike personal injury lawsuits, the “clock” for the statutes of limitations begins to run on the date of death. As such, you must file your wrongful death lawsuit before the 2nd anniversary of your loved one’s death.
While 2 years may sound like a long time, you should speak to an experienced Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney will need to do a lot of research, writing, investigating, strategizing, and work before your case is ready to file. The more time you give your lawyer, the more time he or she will have to put together the strongest case possible.
Q: Why should I choose a Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyer from Munley Law to represent my family?
In the wake of an unexpected loss, the prospect of choosing a lawyer to represent you may feel overwhelming. However, with 60 years of experience, if there is one thing we know, it is that who you choose matters. At Munley Law, our clients choose us because:
- Our clients’ needs always come first. Since 1959, we have worked with tragic accident victims and their families in their darkest moments. Our lawyers are compassionate and understanding, and we always put our clients first.
- We deliver results. Time and time again, Munley Law lawyers win big for our clients. Learn more about our recent verdicts and settlements here.
- We promise the highest quality of legal representation. At Munley Law, we make an iron-clad commitment to every client. We promise to always keep your best interest in mind. We promise to deliver a team of professional, experienced, and highly skilled wrongful death lawyers and staff. We also know that we will work harder for you than any other firm.