Losing a loved one is devastating. When it happens because of another person’s careless or reckless actions, the grief can be overwhelming. While no amount of money can change what happened, in Oregon, a wrongful death lawsuit can help family members find a sense of justice and accountability after their loss. Here, our wrongful death lawyers at Johnson and Taylor explain how these types of claims work and why having an experienced attorney by your side is so important.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Oregon
In Oregon, a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil legal claim that’s brought when a death is caused by another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. Although it’s not a criminal case, it can help surviving family members find a sense of justice by allowing them to seek compensation for the losses they’ve suffered.
Wrongful death lawsuits often arise from:
- Car accidents caused by negligent drivers
- Truck collisions and motorcycle accidents
- Bike and pedestrian accidents
- Drunk driving crashes
- Distracted or aggressive drivers
- Slip and fall accidents
Our wrongful death attorneys have successfully handled a wide range of cases for clients throughout Oregon. We provide compassionate, tenacious legal support and a shoulder to lean on during challenging times.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Oregon?
In Oregon, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This representative is often the executor of their last will and testament or is appointed during the probate process. They are responsible for bringing the claim on behalf of heirs or beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries of a wrongful death lawsuit may include:
- The surviving spouse or domestic partner
- Children and stepchildren
- Parents
- Siblings
- Other relatives
Having the personal representative of an estate file a wrongful death claim ensures that any damages recovered are distributed fairly and to the rightful beneficiaries. Our estate planning and probate attorneys can answer any questions you may have about how this process works and provide assistance if problems arise.
Types of Damages in Oregon Wrongful Death Claims
Nothing can replace the love and care of a family member, but a wrongful death lawsuit can provide financial support and a sense of accountability for grieving families. In Oregon, types of wrongful death damages include:
- Medical bills related to the person’s final injury or illness
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income and benefits the deceased would have earned over their lifetime
- Pain and suffering of the deceased from the time of injury until death
- Loss of care, companionship, and guidance
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress of the survivors
Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Oregon
The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Oregon is generally three years from the date of the injury that caused the death. However, there are rare exceptions to this rule. In addition, there may be other deadlines that could be much sooner.
It’s vital to contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as you believe that your loved one’s passing may have been caused by negligence. Missing the three-year deadline could mean losing your right to pursue justice altogether. Not only that, valuable evidence can be lost and witnesses’ memories may fade, which can have a significant impact on your case.
How Our Experienced Salem Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help
Wrongful death cases are legally complex and emotionally taxing. Insurance companies do everything they can to minimize payouts and deny claims. Our wrongful death attorneys are seasoned negotiators who won’t back down in our pursuit of justice and accountability for your loved one. We handle all aspects of your case so you and your loved ones can focus on supporting each other.
These cases require extensive investigation and complex legal strategies. We know how to collect relevant evidence and build compelling arguments that resonate with judges and juries. We’ve earned a reputation for preparedness and tenacity in the Oregon legal community and truly care about the people we serve. Our wrongful death attorneys take the time to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process.
Affordable Legal Representation You Can Trust
Our wrongful death lawyers and personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and take cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t owe attorneys’ fees unless you get paid. We stand by your side, fight for your family’s rights, and ensure you’re treated with respect and dignity every step of the way.
Our wrongful death lawyers serve clients in Salem, Eugene, Bend, the Oregon Coast, Medford, and throughout the state of Oregon. In addition to litigating personal injury and wrongful death claims, our attorneys handle cases involving estate planning and in Marion, Linn, and Polk counties. We also provide top-notch legal services that our Spanish-speaking clients can rely on.
Contact Us to Learn More About Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Oregon
If you’ve lost someone you love due to negligence, our team at Johnson and Taylor is ready to help you seek the justice and accountability your family deserves. To schedule a free consultation with a wrongful death lawyer near you in Oregon, contact us or call 503-990-6641 today.
