Did you lose a loved one in a preventable accident caused by someone else’s carelessness? When another party’s actions result in a fatality, Washington state laws allow certain family members to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Losing someone unexpectedly can turn your world upside down—emotionally, financially, and legally. Thankfully, a Federal Way wrongful death lawyer can help you understand your rights as you take steps toward seeking justice on behalf of your loved one.
At NextLaw, we are deeply familiar with wrongful death cases in Washington. In fact, our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience and counting. As your Federal Way personal injury lawyer, we promise to stand beside you every step of the way. After the unthinkable, Call Dan Next!
Definition of Wrongful Death in Washington
Under Washington state laws, wrongful death is defined as a death “caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or fault of another.” It is a civil action, separate from any criminal proceedings that may arise from the same incident.
A wrongful death lawsuit seeks to hold the responsible party financially accountable for the harm caused to the deceased’s family or estate. The wrongful act could be considered:
- Negligent, such as a distracted driver causing a fatal crash
- Reckless, such as a company knowingly selling a dangerous product
- Intentional, such as a deadly assault
The key factor is that the death would not have occurred but for the actions or omissions of the at-fault party. Your Federal Way wrongful death lawyers will take on the responsibility of proving that your case fits the definition of wrongful death and make sure the correct legal procedures are followed when bringing a wrongful death claim.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving Federal Way, call (253) 238-2558
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Federal Way
Wrongful death claims in Federal Way often arise from a range of tragic incidents:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Fatal collisions involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians are a leading cause of wrongful deaths in the area, particularly on major roads like I-5, SR-99, SR-18, and Pacific Highway.
- Medical malpractice: Misdiagnosis, surgical errors, failure to treat, or improper medication can result in fatal outcomes, particularly in hospital or nursing home settings.
- Workplace accidents: Fatalities in construction, manufacturing, or transportation jobs may be eligible for wrongful death claims, especially if caused by third-party negligence or unsafe conditions.
- Defective products: Unsafe consumer goods, automotive defects, or faulty machinery can result in fatal injuries that qualify under product liability laws.
- Criminal conduct: Although separate from criminal prosecution, families may pursue civil claims for wrongful death caused by assault, drunk driving, or other violent actions.
Every case depends on the unique facts and applicable laws, but they all share the common thread of a preventable death caused by another party’s misconduct.
Your Federal Way wrongful death attorneys can help you understand which of these circumstances apply to your situation based on the details of your case.
Federal Way Wrongful Death Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Washington?
Your wrongful death lawyers in Federal Way can help you understand if you are eligible to file a wrongful death claim. However, it also helps to know that Washington’s wrongful death statutes specify which parties are allowed to file a claim.
It all depends on your relationship with the deceased at the time of their death and the presence of other survivors who may also reserve the right to pursue justice. Let’s take a look at parties who are eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Primary Beneficiaries
In Washington state, the right to bring a wrongful death action typically begins with:
- The surviving spouse of the deceased
- The state-registered domestic partner of the deceased
- The children or stepchildren of the deceased
These parties are known as “primary beneficiaries,” and they each have the first right to pursue a wrongful death claim in the aftermath of their loved one’s death.
Dependents of the loved one who passed at the fault of another are entitled to special damages, including but not limited to: The earnings and financial support that would have been provided by the loved one whose death was caused by a fault of another. These damages can be substantial and complex.
Secondary Beneficiaries
If there are no surviving spouses, domestic partners, children, or stepchildren, then the right to bring the action may be passed along to:
- The parents of the deceased, if they were financially dependent on the deceased
- The legal guardians of the deceased, if they were financially dependent on the deceased
- The siblings of the deceased, under certain conditions
Personal Representative Requirement
Per Washington law, wrongful death claims must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate, even though the claim is for the benefit of the beneficiaries.
The court may appoint this representative if they are not already named in the decedent’s will or estate plan. Also, if there was no will, then your wrongful death lawyers in Federal Way can get a personal representative appointed.
Moreover, when a tragic event such as a wrongful death is caused by the wrongful act,
neglect, or fault of another, the at-fault party, particularly in automobile collisions, can pass away or die as well. Which then necessitates the wrongful death claim to be against the at-fault party’s Estate. These legal/procedural minefields will be taken care of by your wrongful death lawyers.
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Contact Our Wrongful Death Law Firm in Federal Way for Help With Your Case Today
If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s actions, the grief and shock can be overwhelming. No one expects to face a tragedy like this, and such a stressful aftermath can leave families like yours with countless questions and few clear answers.
However, you don’t have to go through this alone. With our wrongful death attorneys in Federal Way by your side, you can trust NextLaw to support you during such an incredibly difficult time. We understand the weight of what you’re experiencing, and we’re ready to help you.
Call us today to connect with our Federal Way wrongful death law firm. We’re here to listen, guide you through your legal options, and help you move forward with confidence. Call now.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form