Washington, DC Wrongful Death Lawyer

The loss of a loved one is devastating, and a wrongful death lawsuit is often the last thing on your mind. But when someone else’s negligence has caused the death of someone you love, a Washington, DC wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue justice and closure.

Financial compensation won’t replace your loved one, but it can provide stability while you focus on emotional recovery.

The DC wrongful death lawyers at Regan Zambri Long have the expertise to manage your wrongful death claim with care. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive the financial support and compensation for pain and suffering that your family is entitled to. Call our law firm today to schedule a free consultation.

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What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death action is brought when a person dies due to the negligence or misconduct of another party. Negligence is a legal term that refers to an activity that is careless, irresponsible, or without reasonable care. When negligence plays a part in Washington, DC wrongful death cases, the deceased’s surviving family members may take legal action against the responsible person.

Common Types of DC Wrongful Death Cases

Under Washington, DC law, a wrongful death suit can be filed if the death of an individual was “caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another person or corporation.” Nearly 222,700 people died of unintentional injuries in 2023, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Examples of wrongful death lawsuits include:

  • Truck accidents
  • Car accidents
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Motorcycle accidents
  • Medical malpractice
  • Workplace accidents
  • Defective products
  • Acts of violence, such as assault

An experienced injury attorney from Regan Zambri Long will file your wrongful death lawsuit and get you and your family the compensation you need.

Regan Zambri Long has represented families in wrongful death lawsuits for decades. Our Washington, DC personal injury lawyers know that a lawsuit is not just about compensation but about justice. We will take the burden off your shoulders and fight for your loved one’s rights. Contact our law firm today to schedule a free consultation.

Who Can File Wrongful Death Cases in Washington, DC?

Washington, DC wrongful death lawyer

A spouse or legal domestic partner can file a lawsuit on behalf of their deceased spouse. Unmarried partners are limited in their ability to file a claim. Otherwise, the wrongful death lawsuit can be brought by the next of kin, including:

  • The victim’s children
  • The parents
  • The siblings
  • The grandparents
A personal representative may also be named in the will or appointed to handle a wrongful death lawsuit.

In many cases, the victim’s dependent family members will receive damages. Damages are awarded to surviving family members based on the losses they experienced following the death of their loved one.

If the deceased had a will, the estate’s representative will distribute the damages among the family members. If the victim died without a will, known as intestate, then the damages will be distributed to the surviving spouse, children, parents, or siblings in accordance with legal guidelines.

Compensation Available in a DC Wrongful Death Claim

Wrongful death damages cover any expenses from the accident causing the death and the death itself, including:

  • Funeral costs
  • Medical expenses
  • Loss of financial support, such as wages and benefits
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of consortium
  • Loss of parental training and guidance

In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant for their conduct and discourage any other individual or organization from acting similarly.

In Washington, DC, beneficiaries are not awarded any damages for grief, mental distress, or the loss of affection. DC places no maximum value on damages for a wrongful death lawsuit.

Proving Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Washington, DC

DC wrongful death claims require proving negligence. Your wrongful death lawyer will need to establish that:

  • The death of the victim was caused either in part or in whole by the carelessness, recklessness, or negligent actions of the defendant.
  • The defendant owed a duty of care to the victim and breached that duty.
  • The defendant’s negligence caused the death of the victim.
  • The accident also generated quantifiable damages, such as medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of income.

While proving negligence can seem straightforward, insurance companies and opposing legal counsel will be working hard to counter negligence claims. They may even try to say that, under DC’s contributory negligence law, your family is not entitled to compensation because your loved one shared responsibility for the accident.

Regan Zambri Long’s DC wrongful death attorneys will make sure your family’s rights are protected while proving negligence. Call our law office today for a free case review.

Who Can Be Sued for a Wrongful Death?

Wasington, DC wrongful death attorney

Multiple parties may be held responsible for the death of a loved one, depending on your specific case.

  • In a medical malpractice case, the family could hold the medical professional, the healthcare facility, and any of the medical staff responsible for the accident.
  • A restaurant or bar that overserved a person and allowed them to drive home could be liable for a drunk driving crash.
  • Automobile manufacturers who created a vehicle defect that resulted in a fatal accident can be sued for negligence.
  • A trucking company that didn’t train a truck driver properly can be held responsible for negligence.

When you call Regan Zambri Long for your free case evaluation, we will review the facts of your case to identify all liable parties. We will bring lawsuits against everyone who contributed to your loved one’s death, including individuals, corporations, and even government entities.

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Schedule A Free Consultation With a Top Wrongful Death Attorney

Hire Regan Zambri Long's Washington, DC Wrongful Death Attorneys

Our DC wrongful death lawyers have the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to investigate and prosecute your wrongful death claim. Choosing the best personal injury lawyer to represent your family can be overwhelming, but it can make all the difference in your claim.

Regan Zambri Long’s decades of experience have taught us what evidence is necessary to prove your case before a jury. Our nationally recognized team gathers evidence efficiently and promptly, giving your family the time and space you need to grieve. When expert testimony is required, we consult our network of expert witnesses who can testify to the validity of your claim.

Our personal injury attorneys make sure justice is served without adding another burden to your family. Our Washington, DC wrongful death law firm handles your whole claim, fighting the legal battle while your family heals.

If you lost a loved one in an accident and need help filing a wrongful death claim, contact a DC wrongful death lawyer at Regan Zambri Long today to schedule a free consultation.

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Washington, DC Wrongful Death Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Washington, DC?

According to D.C. Code § 16–2702, you have two years after the death of a loved one to file a lawsuit. Exemptions do apply, such as when the cause of death isn’t immediately determined or when government entities are involved. Your best course of action is to consult with Regan Zambri Long’s DC wrongful death attorneys right away to make sure your claim is filed on time.

Our lawyers cannot provide a case value without a thorough review of the facts. Every case’s value is different. However, cases can range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars.

Wrongful death claims can take months or years, depending on the quality of evidence, the willingness of the liable party to make a fair settlement, and the court’s caseload if a trial is necessary.

Regan Zambri Long takes wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. We don’t charge you any legal fees until we’ve made a financial recovery in your favor. Our fees are calculated into the value of your claim, so you never have to worry about paying for quality legal counsel.

Yes, if your loved one’s death was caused by someone’s criminal act, you can still file a wrongful death claim. A civil wrongful death claim may proceed even if the person is facing criminal charges.

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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.

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