Chesapeake Wrongful Death Lawyer

A loved one’s untimely passing is a deeply painful experience that changes the lives of those left behind. When this loss is attributed to another’s negligence or wrongdoing, grief can become overshadowed by the need for justice. A skilled wrongful death lawyer in Chesapeake, VA, will help you fight for justice in your loved one’s memory.

If you lost a loved one in an accident, I offer my deepest condolences. As a Chesapeake personal injury lawyer with experience handling wrongful death lawsuits, I will help you overcome the legal challenges you may be facing. Call me, Ed Atkinson, today for a free consultation.

Understanding Virginia’s Wrongful Death Statute

Under Virginia law, a decedent’s surviving loved ones may file a lawsuit against the person whose wrongful or negligent actions caused the death. While the legal process cannot fill the void left by the loss of a beloved family member, it can provide a sense of closure.

You can pursue a wrongful death claim if the circumstances of the accident would have qualified the deceased party to pursue a personal injury claim had they survived.

As an experienced wrongful death lawyer, I will compassionately guide you through the legal process. I take the time to listen to your story and understand the unique aspects of the claim. Together, we will create a tailored legal strategy to make you comfortable and confident with the direction of your case.

What Types of Accidents Can Lead to a Wrongful Death Case?

Like in personal injury cases, a wide range of events can serve as the foundation for a wrongful death lawsuit. During my legal practice, I have witnessed the many ways negligence can claim lives. This experience helped me develop a deep understanding of the complexities involved in such claims.

If you lost a loved one in the following types of accidents, you could have a valid wrongful death case:

• Car accident
• Truck accident
• Motorcycle accident
• Medical malpractice
• Dog attack
• Slip and Fall

Even if the decedent passed away under different circumstances, you could still receive wrongful death damages. During the initial consultation, I will review the details of your case and determine if you have a valid claim. Then, it will be your decision if and how we move forward.

Available Compensation in a Chesapeake Wrongful Death Case

Losing a loved one can change the lives of surviving family members in many ways. In addition to the emotional impact, dependents may struggle to cover medical bills and funeral costs. When the deceased was the primary provider for the family, the sudden loss of financial support adds to the financial strain on the surviving loved ones.

Pursuing a wrongful death claim is not about attempting to put a price on life, as no amount of money can truly measure the value of a loved one. Instead, it is about seeking financial support to provide a sense of security during an uncertain transition.

Wrongful death damages in Virginia include:

• Sorrow and mental anguish
• Expected loss of income
• Expected loss of services
• Medical expenses for the care and treatment of the decedent prior to death
• Funeral expenses

Your Wrongful Death Claim Could Also Qualify for Punitive Damages

Punitive damages in a Virginia wrongful death case punish the at-fault party for their unlawful disregard for the safety of others. However, you can qualify for these damages only under specific circumstances.

Fatal drunk driving accidents are a classic example of cases that are eligible for punitive damages. If the reckless driver had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15% or higher, this proves a conscious disregard for the rights of others on the road. Punitive damages may also be awarded if the driver unreasonably refuses to take a BAC test.

In Virginia, punitive damages are capped at $350,000, which is the maximum amount you can receive. As your wrongful death attorney, I will maximize your compensation within these constraints.

Compassionate Legal Guidance for the Wrongful Death of a Minor

No parent should experience the tragic loss of a child. If you are unsure about how to move forward, allow me to provide compassionate support during this difficult period. As your wrongful death attorney, I will take over the legal details of your case, giving you the space you need to grieve.

If your child’s fatal injury or illness was caused by the reckless or negligent actions of someone, you could have grounds to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.

Although no sum of money can ever replace your child, pursuing justice may offer a sense of closure. In addition, by taking legal action, you could also help build a safer future for children by potentially preventing similar tragedies.

Virginia’s Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for wrongful death cases in Virginia is usually two years after the victim’s death, as per the Virginia Code § 8.01-244. Not filing a lawsuit within this time frame can impede your right to recover compensation.

If your loved one suffered catastrophic injuries in an accident, don’t wait until they pass to seek legal representation. A lawyer can immediately start preserving critical information, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses. By seeking legal counsel as soon as possible, your attorney has more time to build a strong case, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.

Call Atkinson Law for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation

I built my personal injury law firm to offer a new kind of representation for injured victims. I firmly believe that a strong and honest attorney-client relationship is the cornerstone of effective legal advocacy. When you choose Atkinson Law, you are not just another number but a valued part of my legal family.

I maintain open and transparent communication throughout the legal process, keeping you informed about your claim’s progress. Allow me to serve as your Chesapeake wrongful death attorney, and I will help you seek justice. Contact me today to discuss an effective legal strategy for your claim.