Losing a family member in an auto crash, slip and fall, or another fatal accident can be devastating for you and your family. Following your tragic loss, remember that legal guidance and support are available. Talk with a wrongful death lawyer in Everett who values empathy and compassion. Your attorney could be able to help you file a wrongful death claim or lawsuit.
Siegfried & Jensen has provided legal services and support to more than 35,000 clients. As you search for a personal injury lawyer in Everett with experience in wrongful death cases, we are here for you. Our attorneys can assist you with your claim or lawsuit as you and your family care for and support one another. For more information, schedule a free case evaluation.
How You and Your Family May Benefit from a Wrongful Death Claim in Everett, Washington
Filing a claim for a wrongful death may allow you to recover compensatory damages relating to your loved one’s death. A wrongful death attorney in Everett can explain what a wrongful death claim entails and whether you are eligible to file one. If you submit a claim, your lawyer can negotiate the terms of a settlement with the liable party’s insurer.
In an insurance claim, your attorney focuses on your rights and the best interests of you and your family. They want you to get compensation for tangible and intangible losses from your loved one’s death. If an insurance company makes an offer, you can evaluate the proposal with your lawyer. Alternatively, if no settlement agreement is reached, your lawyer can bring your case to trial.
The team at Siegfried & Jensen has decades of combined experience. We offer FAQs and other resources to those who are considering whether to file a wrongful death claim. If you are ready to move forward with a wrongful death claim, we can help you submit your compensation request in accordance with Washington State law. Contact us today to learn more.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving Everett, call (801) 266-0999
When to Sue Someone for a Wrongful Death
Unfortunately, insurance settlement negotiations don’t offer guarantees. Your Everett wrongful death lawyer will engage with the at-fault party’s insurance company in hopes of securing a fair settlement for you. Yet, if this insurer chooses not to make a reasonable offer, your attorney may advise you to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
According to RCW § 4.16.080, if you lose a family member in a fatal accident and meet the criteria for filing a lawsuit against any responsible parties, you generally have up to three years from the date of death to sue. Once this window closes, you lose the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Your attorney can explain the wrongful death statute of limitations in Washington as it applies to your case. They want you to secure economic and non-economic damages. At the same time, they may encourage you to view your lawsuit as an opportunity to seek justice against anyone at fault for your family member’s death.
Everett Wrongful Death Lawyer Near Me (801) 266-0999
How Much a Wrongful Death Case Could Potentially Be Worth
The compensation available to you in a wrongful death case will be based on your losses. Your lawyer wants you to achieve case results that line up with your expectations. They will help you pursue several types of compensatory damages, such as:
- Medical expenses that your loved one incurred prior to death
- Lost income and future earnings
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship
- Mental anguish
Your lawyer will use medical records, witness statements, accident-scene photos and videos, and other evidence to support your request for damages. They want to be able to show a judge or jury that a party acted negligently and should cover the losses from your loved one’s death.
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Who Can Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Death
One or more parties can be at fault for a wrongful death. The party responsible for your loved one’s death will be determined based on the circumstances of your loss. Your lawyer can interview witnesses who were at the scene of your loved one’s fatal accident, review police reports, and more. Any of these parties could be liable:
- Motorist
- Property owner
- Business operator
- Trucking company
- Employer
Even if you tell a judge or jury that any of these parties or others may be at fault for your family member’s death, you are responsible for the burden of proof. If you have relevant evidence and a strong argument, you will be well-equipped to prove negligence and recover damages.
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A Look at the Role of Negligence in a Wrongful Death Case
The court will account for negligence when deciding whether to rule in your favor. Because of this, your attorney will focus their argument on negligence, as doing so can increase your chances of recovering damages. Here are the elements of negligence that your lawyer will try to prove were present and that contributed to your loved one’s death:
- Duty of care: A party has a legal obligation to avoid acts that could endanger others.
- Breach of duty of care: This party acted carelessly or recklessly, violating their duty to others.
- Causation: The party’s actions led to an incident that ultimately caused your loved one’s death.
- Damages: You are dealing with losses due to your loved one’s death.
Per RCW § 4.22, pure comparative negligence can apply to wrongful death lawsuits. If you sue someone for a wrongful death and your loved one is found to be partly liable, your damages will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Our Everett Wrongful Death Lawyers Have Recovered Over $1.2 Billion for Our Clients
Get an Everett wrongful death attorney from Siegfried & Jensen on your side. Our lawyers care about you and your wrongful death case. We will handle your wrongful death claim or lawsuit and remain accessible to you every step of the way. Contact us today.
Call or text (801) 266-0999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form