No one likes to think about planning a funeral, but that is especially true when the loss of a loved one is unexpected and due to the neglect of someone else. Unfortunately, a funeral is one of the first things someone will have to handle in their time of mourning.
According to World Population Review, the average cost of a funeral in our state in 2020 is about $8,000. It’s an expense no one should have to cover in the case of a wrongful death. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys know how difficult this time can be, and we do everything we can to help families deal with the loss of their loved one, while we handle the rest. Let’s take a closer look at:
- What Pennsylvania Considers a Wrongful Death
- What Funeral Expenses are Covered in a Wrongful Death Case
- How a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
What Pennsylvania Considers a Wrongful Death?
Under Pennsylvania law, a family member can file a lawsuit if someone causes a loved one’s death through negligence, a wrongful act or illegal violence. Some actions that can result in a wrongful death include medical negligence, negligent driving or a shooting.
To help alleviate the financial and emotional burden on survivors, Pennsylvania’s Wrongful Death Act allows for the deceased individual’s spouse, children and/or parents to recover damages for lost companionship and financial support, in addition to reasonable hospital expenses, nursing costs, medical expenses, administrative costs resulting from the injuries that caused the death and funeral expenses.
What Funeral Expenses are Covered in a Wrongful Death Case?
While Pennsylvania’s Wrongful Death Act suggests “reasonable expenses” be covered for funerals, it does not detail the definition of “reasonable.” However, some would argue reasonable expenses would include things like airfare should the deceased wished to have an out-of-state burial. Other costs associated with an average funeral can include:
- Service Fees
- Preparing the Body for Burial or Cremation
- Casket or Urn
- Burial Plot
- Tombstone
- Rental of Funeral Home for Viewing
- Printed Materials
- Flowers
- Reception Venue and Association Costs
- Vehicle Rental for Funeral Procession
How a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
After a family member is killed, filing a lawsuit is the last thing on your mind. But your loved one’s unexpected death may put your entire family in tough financial straits. Wrongful death damages can help you and your family weather the aftermath of a fatal accident. GLS Injury Law, voted Lancaster’s best law firm, year after year, focuses solely on personal injury and wrongful death recovery. We work hard to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve and that you get closure on the legal and financial aspects of your tragedy as swiftly as possible.
We know that losing a loved one is never easy. During these overwhelming times, it is difficult to take action to protect your rights. Insurance companies will exploit this by trying to pressure you into settling for less than you deserve. Our attorneys will help you understand the laws surrounding your case, and we will aggressively pursue your legal rights. Call us today at 717-394-3004. We know we cannot diminish your grief, but we will do all we can to ease the financial burden on you and your family in a respectful, compassionate manner.
