Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Burien?
Posted Friday, April 29, 2022 by Chris Thayer
In the State of Washington, only certain individuals can file wrongful death lawsuits. These types of lawsuits are not filed by the victims, but instead by their close family members and loved ones. The reason for this is obvious — the victim is no longer alive to file a lawsuit on their own behalf. But it is worth pointing out that not just anyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit. In Washington, there are very strict rules regarding these matters. So, can you file a wrongful death lawsuit after losing a loved one in a fatal accident – such as a car crash?
If you believe you might have the opportunity to file a wrongful death lawsuit, the first step is to get in touch with a personal injury attorney in Burien at your earliest convenience. During an initial consultation, your lawyer can assess your situation and determine whether or not you can sue. From there, you can work towards a fair, adequate settlement in a highly efficient manner.
Fatal *Accidents are Common in Burien*Fatal accidents occur on a fairly regular basis in Burien. In April of 2021, it was reported that two people had lost their lives after their vehicle was hit by a pickup truck. They had been forced into oncoming traffic after being hit by a speeding car. The reckless driver who caused the accident was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide. He initially tried to escape the scene of the crash, and so he was also charged with hit and run.
Who Ca*n File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Washington State?*In Washington State, there is only one person who can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased victim: The “personal representative” of their estate. In almost all cases, this is the same person as the executor of their will. If the victim passed away without a will in place, the court will likely appoint someone to act as the personal representative.
But what happens if the executor does not actually need the money from a settlement? What if the victim’s spouse and surviving children are desperately trying to make ends meet, having lost the primary breadwinner of the family? It is important to understand that although the personal representative actually files the lawsuit, the damages go towards the deceased survivors. So while you might not have the ability to file the lawsuit yourself, you will almost certainly benefit in some way if you are considered a beneficiary.
*Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today*If you have been searching for an experienced personal injury attorney in Burien, look no further than Pivotal Law Group. With our help, you can hold negligent parties accountable for the death of your loved ones. Although no sum of money can bring your family member back, a wrongful death lawsuit can provide you with a sense of closure. This may help you move on. Of course, your financial settlement can help you pay for things like funeral expenses and unpaid medical bills. Book your consultation today to learn more.