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Wrongful Death Attorney Pennsylvania
Metzger Wickersham – Helping Families Across PA After a Loss
Direct Answer
A wrongful death attorney in Pennsylvania helps families who have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence—such as car accidents, medical errors, or unsafe conditions—pursue compensation for financial losses, funeral expenses, and the impact of that loss. If a fatal accident occurred in Pennsylvania, understanding your legal options early can help protect your family’s future.
When a Preventable Loss Happens
Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a family can face—especially when that loss could have been prevented.
Wrongful death cases may arise from:
- Car and truck accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Dangerous property conditions
- Defective products
Families are often left dealing with grief, financial stress, and unanswered questions about what happened.
Metzger Wickersham has been helping Pennsylvania families navigate these situations for generations, providing guidance during difficult times.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought when a person dies due to another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct.
Direct Answer
A wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania allows certain family members to seek compensation when a loved one’s death was caused by another person or entity’s actions.
Who Can File a Claim?
In Pennsylvania, wrongful death claims are typically filed by:
- A spouse
- Children
- Parents
The claim is often brought by a personal representative on behalf of the family.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Pennsylvania
Car Accidents
Fatal crashes often occur on roads like:
- Interstate 81 and Interstate 83 (Harrisburg area)
- Route 30 and Route 222 (Lancaster County)
- Route 309 and I-81 (Luzerne County)
Truck Accidents
Commercial vehicle crashes can lead to severe outcomes due to size and impact.
Medical Malpractice
Errors in hospitals such as:
- UPMC Harrisburg
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center
- Lancaster General Hospital
- Geisinger Medical Center
may result in fatal consequences.
Workplace Accidents
Construction, industrial, and transportation jobs can involve serious risks.
Premises Liability
Unsafe conditions at businesses or properties may lead to fatal injuries.
What To Do After a Wrongful Death
Direct Answer
After a wrongful death, families should gather documentation, preserve evidence, and understand their legal options before dealing with insurance companies.
Steps to Consider
- Obtain official reports (police, medical)
- Preserve evidence related to the incident
- Avoid early insurance discussions
- Keep records of expenses
- Seek guidance to understand your options
What Compensation May Be Available?
Direct Answer
Families in Pennsylvania may recover compensation for financial and emotional losses related to a wrongful death.
Types of Compensation
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs prior to passing
- Lost income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
Each case depends on the circumstances and impact on the family.
How Wrongful Death Cases Work in Pennsylvania
Step 1: Investigation
Reviewing how the incident occurred and identifying responsible parties.
Step 2: Evidence Collection
Gathering records, reports, and supporting documentation.
Step 3: Claim Process
Pursuing compensation through negotiation or legal action.
Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Laws to Know
Statute of Limitations
Pennsylvania generally allows two years from the date of death to file a claim.
Survival Action
In some cases, a separate claim may be brought for damages the individual experienced prior to passing.
Why Wrongful Death Cases Are Complex
These cases often involve:
- Multiple parties
- Detailed investigations
- Financial impact calculations
- Emotional and non-economic losses
Understanding the full impact requires careful evaluation.
Serving Families Across Pennsylvania
Metzger Wickersham helps families throughout:
- Harrisburg
- Lancaster
- York
- Wilkes-Barre
- Pottsville
- Williamsport
- Shippensburg
Local knowledge of accident-prone areas, hospitals, and industries plays an important role in these cases.
FAQ – Wrongful Death Attorney Pennsylvania
What is a wrongful death claim?
A legal claim filed when a person dies due to another party’s negligence.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in PA?
Typically spouses, children, or parents.
How long do I have to file?
Generally two years from the date of death.
What compensation may be available?
Funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages related to the loss.
Do all fatal accidents qualify?
Not all incidents qualify—each case depends on whether negligence was involved.
Talk With a Wrongful Death Attorney in Pennsylvania
The loss of a loved one can affect every part of your life. Understanding your options after a wrongful death is an important step forward.
If you are searching for a wrongful death attorney Pennsylvania, Metzger Wickersham helps families across the state understand their rights and what steps may come next.
Whether the incident occurred on a Pennsylvania highway, at a workplace, or in a medical setting, getting the right information early can make a difference.
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Motorcycle Accidents
$2.25 million recovered for a motorcycle operator involved in a collision.
Success Stories
A History of Happy Clients
“Thank you for everything you did and are doing.”
“Stress and anxiety levels were 100% gone.”
My wife had been fighting SSI for over three years. Since working with Metzger Wickersham her stress and anxiety levels were 100% gone. They were always in communication with us, guiding us through the process. We’re so glad we chose this firm. Thank you for all you’ve done!
Carlos B.
Carlos B.
“Helpful and always informed”
Everyone here was very helpful and worked very hard. I have nothing but good things to say about Metzger Wickersham. The team kept me well informed and updated at all times!
Thomas C.
Thomas C.
“Exceeded my expectations”
Being in an accident is overwhelming with injuries, loss of property, medical bills, and insurance hassles. I’m grateful for Metzger Wickersham’s help during this trying time. The settlement results far exceeded my expectations, and I can’t express my gratitude enough.
Tanya W.
Tanya W.
“A great experience throughout.”
Metzger Wickersham is the best. They helped us a lot and we made some great friends along the way. If you need a great group of lawyers, these are the people you want. They got all our medical bills paid. It was a great experience throughout the 3 years. All was settled and ended great for us.
Kathy S.
Kathy S.
“Extremely pleased with my services!”
I was hurt in a bad accident and called Metzger Wickersham. Thankfully I did! They have been great, on top of things, and always doing their job well. Extremely pleased with my experience!
Kristen H.
Kristen H.
“Highly recommend Metzger Wickersham!”
If you need help to right a wrong, I strongly recommend calling Metzger Wickersham. They took my case when others said I had none and found those responsible for my injury even after the moving company went out of business. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I received a $30,000 settlement.
Tim K.
Tim K.
“Highly recommend!”
I used Metzger Wickersham for a personal injury dog bite case. Attorney Love was great to work with and made the whole process smooth and painless. Everything was explained with detail, the team was there to assist with any questions I had, and I was very happy with the results. Highly recommend!
“You are a very honest person.”
I thank you, Mr. Craig Love. You are a very honest person and explained every detail of my case.
Elsie J.
Elsie J.
“I would recommend you to everyone.”
You all did a great job for me. You kept in contact with me through everything. I would recommend you to everyone.
Ruth M.
Ruth M.
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