Hermiston Wrongful Death Lawyer

A wrongful death case is intended to help you and your family recover following the death of a loved one. When a person’s negligence is the reason you have lost someone you love, their negligence may make them liable for what you have been dealing with. Compensation for grief, funeral expenses, and much more may be available in a successfully proven claim.

A skilled Hermiston wrongful death lawyer is prepared to assist you with your case. Filing your claim with a compassionate injury attorney help start you on the path toward potential monetary damages.

How Wrongful Death Accidents May Occur

Any situation, unfortunately, could result in the death of a loved one when a defendant is careless. Certain types of accidents are more likely to cause fatal injuries. However, no matter the estate’s situation, they can consult with a seasoned attorney in Hermiston to determine whether a wrongful death claim may apply in their case.

Typical accidents that lead to wrongful deaths often include:

  • Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
  • Defective product injuries
  • Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
  • Medical malpractice cases
  • Slip and fall incidents
  • Food poisoning cases

These potential situations and limitless others may be the reason an estate has lost a beloved family member. When this is the case, it is in the best interests of the surviving individuals to file a wrongful death claim quickly with the help of a lawyer in Hermiston.

State Law on Wrongful Death Cases

A death is wrongful when another individual’s negligent or intentional conduct was the result of the death. If the defendant’s acts were the reason the decedent passed away, a wrongful death case is likely appropriate.

Under Oregon Revised Statutes § 30.020, only certain individuals can file a wrongful death action. This limitation is a critical aspect of filing a successful claim, and it must be strictly followed to ensure a case is not summarily dismissed. Potentially eligible plaintiffs include:

  • Personal representative of the decedent
  • The surviving spouse or domestic partner
  • Surviving children, including adopted or step-children
  • Surviving parents
  • Other individuals who may inherit under intestate succession laws

These members of the estate are subject to other specific rules governing who may collect and more.  For example, surviving siblings and parents can file when no surviving spouse or children survive, and usually only when those individuals were dependent on the decedent for support.

How to Prove a Wrongful Death Claim in Hermiston

A wrongful death claim is substantially similar to an injury lawsuit in how it is proven and what rules of procedure apply. A more specific connection between the defendant’s wrongful acts and the cause of the death needs to occur.

This investigation may look into video recordings of the incident, witness testimonies, and collaboration with medical experts to connect the defendant’s part in the death. An investigation of the estate’s total damages is also necessary to prove the claim for monetary compensation. This can include looking at medical bills, lost income the decedent would have earned, and the grief suffered by the surviving estate.

Seek Compensation with a Hermiston Wrongful Death Attorney

While losing a loved one is devastating, you should not also be stuck dealing with the costs. You may be entitled to compensation for the financial losses you have endured and for the suffering and grief you have been caused.

To determine your eligibility for benefits, speak to an experienced Hermiston wrongful death lawyer today. A member of the team is ready to help you.