Casey is a founding partner at River Run Law Group. Casey has tried numerous cases across the Commonwealth in both General District Court and Circuit Court. He has earned millions of dollars for his clients through trials, mediations, and settlements.
Losing a loved one in a car accident is an unimaginable pain, especially when someone else’s recklessness or negligence caused the tragic collision. If you’re wondering whether a family member can sue for wrongful death after a car accident in Virginia, the answer is yes.
In Virginia, the surviving family member of the deceased may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the family, seeking compensation for the emotional and financial toll caused by the loss. This type of lawsuit is governed by Virginia’s wrongful death statute, which allows the deceased’s representative to pursue justice.
At River Run Law, our experienced wrongful death attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process following the loss of a loved one. If you have questions or need assistance, contact us today.
Suing for Wrongful Death After a Car Accident
Losing a loved one in a car accident is a horrific event with lifelong emotional and financial consequences.
While a lawsuit isn’t a magic bullet, a wrongful death lawsuit may bring a family needed closure and a sense of justice when another person’s negligence causes the accident.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Virginia, the deceased’s representative must initiate legal proceedings on the family’s behalf.
The decedent’s will or a court typically appoints the representative, but the decedent’s spouse and children, including adopted and stepchildren, collect the wrongful death settlement.
If the deceased has no spouse or children, their parents and siblings can typically collect.
When there aren’t any survivors, parties in the deceased’s will or who are otherwise eligible to inherit under Virginia estate law can bring a claim.
Recent Wrongful Death Settlement
The Case: Our client recovered the full policy limits of $200,000 for the tragic shooting death of their loved one. The gun had been provided by the minor’s parents, and insurance coverage was identified and pursued as a result.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that testimonials or reviews do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter, as the facts and circumstances of each case differ.
How Much Can You Sue for Wrongful Death?
Since no two wrongful death cases are identical, determining the exact amount you can sue for is complex.
Total damages awarded in a wrongful death case vary depending on multiple factors, including the deceased person’s earning capacity, age, and health condition before the accident, and the survivors’ financial dependence on the deceased.
Generally, the types of compensation courts award in a wrongful death lawsuit are parsed into:
- Economic damages, which cover tangible financial losses like medical expenses and loss of income, families incur because of their loved one’s death;
- Non-economic damages for intangible losses, including pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress; and
- Punitive damages where the responsible party’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious.
An experienced wrongful death attorney can help calculate these damages, considering various elements like the loss of future earnings, loss of companionship, and emotional distress, and help you determine a fair settlement amount.
Call (804) 889-0500 or complete the Free Case Evaluation form below
A Virginia Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help You Pursue Legal Action
At River Run Law, we offer the families of wrongful death victims personalized, skilled, hands-on legal services.
From day one, we promise to work quickly to get you the resolution you need while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Our compassionate, detail-oriented, diligent advocates have tried numerous cases across the Commonwealth, earning millions of dollars for clients through trials, mediations, and settlements.
We’ve dedicated our careers to redressing wrongs and will fight tooth and nail to meet your unique needs while working steadfastly to win your case.
Contact us now at (804) 889-0500 for a free consultation.
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