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Fatal car accidents are, unfortunately, increasing in frequency. In the past two years, Washington, DC has seen the highest amount of traffic fatalities since 2007. When you lose a family member in a car accident, you may not know what to do next. Do not try to file the claim on your own. Instead, contact a Washington, DC auto accident attorney at Regan Zambri Long as soon as possible.
At Regan Zambri Long, our fatal car accident attorneys have been helping DC families who have lost loved ones for over 40 years. We know how difficult this time is for you and your family, and we will help you pick up the pieces following a fatal car crash. Contact us today for a free consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case.
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When a loved one dies in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence in Washington, DC, surviving family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These legal actions seek compensation for the tremendous losses families experience, including lost income, funeral expenses, and the emotional pain of losing a family member.
In DC, wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the death, and only specific family members can initiate these claims. The personal representative of the deceased’s estate must file the lawsuit on behalf of the surviving spouse, children, parents, or siblings.
Washington, DC follows “contributory negligence” rules, meaning compensation may be denied if the deceased was even partially at fault for the accident. This makes having experienced legal representation crucial when pursuing these complex claims.
If you’ve lost a family member in a DC car accident, consulting with an auto accident attorney who specializes in wrongful death litigation can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation your family deserves during this difficult time. Call Regan Zambri Long.
Typically, a wrongful death lawsuit is filed by the family of the deceased. In Washington, DC, a claim will be filed by the deceased’s estate on behalf of the spouse or domestic partner. If the lost loved one did not leave behind a spouse or domestic partner, their next of kin would be able to seek compensation. Depending on the case, this can include parents, children, siblings, and other relatives.
If the claim is successful, any monetary damages will be paid to the deceased’s estate, which will then distribute the amount per the deceased’s will.
Losing a loved one greatly impacts the lives of surviving family members. From left behind medical bills to lost income to support any dependents, a fatal car accident can be complicated for the family of the deceased. Damages for surviving family members can range from economic to punitive if the at-fault driver was reckless.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, you may be entitled to damages such as:
For lost wages, the surviving family can sometimes recover the amount the deceased would have earned in the long term through retirement. In Washington, DC, you cannot fight for any damages, including emotional stress, loss of love, or affection. However, you cannot recover anything if you do not file your claim within the two-year window to do so by law.
Fatal car accidents have serious and long-lasting consequences for the surviving family members. You mustn’t try and recover on your own. An experienced fatal car accident lawyer can help you receive compensation that will help you as you grieve your loved one.
At Regan Zambri Long PLLC, our car accident lawyers have combined more than 100 years of experience fighting on behalf of accident victims and their families. Contact us today to speak about the details of your case in a free consultation.
Have you or your loved one sustained injuries in Washington DC, Maryland or Virginia? Regan Zambri Long PLLC has the best lawyers in the country to analyze your case and answer the questions you may have.