Federal Way Wrongful Death Attorney

Losing a loved one is painful and stressful, especially when it is unexpected and caused by someone else’s wrongful conduct. Wrongful conduct includes someone’s negligent or intentional acts that lead to the death of an innocent person. Depending on the circumstances, these cases may end up with criminal convictions, but even then family members of the deceased are not compensated for the losses they have incurred due to losing their loved one. Fortunately for people in Federal Way and other cities across our state, Washington law allows civil actions related to wrongful death.

Our Federal Way wrongful death attorneys understand that filing a lawsuit may be difficult if you have lost a loved one because any financial compensation you receive will not bring him or her back. We also understand that these cases are incredibly emotional and painful and thinking about filing a lawsuit may be overwhelming given everything you and your family have gone through. A compassionate wrongful death attorney, however, should help to make the legal recovery process as easy on you as possible and your financial recovery may help with some of the stress and uncertainty related to unexpectedly losing your loved one.

Wrongful death and Survival actions

Under Washington law, there are two civil actions that may be brought against parties who wrongfully cause the death of someone. Wrongful death actions are intended to compensate specific close family members who have sustained losses such as financial support, companionship, guidance, and marital consortium. Survival actions are meant to compensate the deceased’s estate for the injuries and damages he or she suffered from the accident prior to death such as lost income, property damage, and emotional distress.

Common wrongful death scenarios

• Construction sites – The construction industry is incredibly dangerous and causes more deaths than almost any other occupational industry. Wrongful death construction accidents have a number of causes such as someone’s negligent operation of construction equipment, noncompliance with safety regulations, or defective machinery and equipment.
• Maritime accidents – Maritime accidents such as those related to offshore explosions, oil rigs, cranes, tugboat and cargo hauling can cause serious injuries and death. These accidents are often the result of someone’s negligent operation or maintenance, equipment defects, or failure to comply with safety regulations.
• Car accidents – Car accidents due to another person’s negligence or recklessness can lead to wrongful death. When large trucks and buses are involved in an accident, the risk of devastating injuries and fatalities goes up.
• Pedestrian and bicyclist accidents – Pedestrians and bicyclists are in a perilous situation when they are faced with negligent drivers. They have little to no protection and when they spot a fast moving automobile coming towards them, it is often too late to get out of the vehicle’s path.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s wrongful conduct, contact a Federal Way wrongful death attorney at Russell & Hill, PLLC to schedule a consultation. We will go over your case and discuss available legal options for you and your family members.