Common Types of Wrongful Death Claims in Pennsylvania
What Are the Different Types of Wrongful Death Claims?
Wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania can involve a variety of causes, from car accidents and medical malpractice to premises liability. Generally speaking, these cases involve the death of an individual due to the negligence or recklessness of another party. Here is a closer look at some of the most common types of wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania:
- Car accidents: Car accidents are one of the most common causes of wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania. This type of claim occurs when an individual dies as a result of a negligent driver’s actions. Factors that may be considered include speed, intoxication, distracted driving, failure to yield the right-of-way and other reckless behaviors.
- Medical malpractice: Medical professionals are required to adhere to certain standards of care. When they fail to do so, and an individual dies as a result, medical malpractice claims may be filed. Examples include misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment or improper performance of surgery.
- Premises liability: Premises liability cases involve property owners who are responsible for ensuring the safety of those on their premises. If someone is injured or killed due to hazardous conditions such as inadequate security, poor lighting, unsafe construction or defective equipment, premises liability claims can be brought against the owner.
- Products liability: Products liability claims involve death caused by a defect. These types of cases often involve faulty design, manufacturing defects and failure to warn consumers about potential hazards associated with the product.
- Boating accidents: Boating accidents also fall into the category of wrongful death when the fatality was caused by negligence such as an intoxicated boater, poor maintenance by a provider and others.
- Nursing home neglect and abuse: When a nursing home resident dies due to neglect or abuse, it is considered a wrongful death. Nursing home staff and management have an obligation to provide proper care and a safe environment for their residents. When they fail to do so, it can result in the death of vulnerable elderly or disabled individuals.
- Dog attacks: When a pet owner is negligent and a dog bite occurs resulting in someone’s demise, it is considered to be wrongful death. A dog that is unleashed or not restrained when it is aggressive or escapes an enclosure can lead to a fatal dog bite. In Pennsylvania, if the dog owner knew the animal was possibly dangerous and someone was mauled or bitten, which resulted in their demise, a wrongful death claim may be filed.
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence under the Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act, you may be entitled to compensation through either a lawsuit or an insurance claim. It is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and make sure that you are fully compensated for the losses that you have suffered.
Travis Law Firm
Travis Law Firm represents clients whose loved one has been killed as a result of another’s negligence. For a free consultation, please call (814) 277-2222. Our online contact form can also be used to get in touch with us. We will aggressively fight on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.