Wrongful Death Lawyers in York, West Chester & Lancaster, PA
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FINDING THE BEST WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER IN CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
Compassionate Wrongful Death Attorneys Helping Families Across York, Chester, and Lancaster Counties
A wrongful death claim arises when negligence takes a life and leaves a family facing grief and sudden financial pressure. Final medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income can hit immediately, and insurers may reach out within days seeking statements or signatures.
GLS Injury Law represents families across York County, Chester County, and Lancaster County after fatal crashes, medical errors, unsafe property conditions, workplace failures, defective products, and nursing home neglect. For a quarter of a century, our Pennsylvania wrongful death attorneys have guided families in York, West Chester, Lancaster, and nearby communities under the Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act and Survival Action rules.
We preserve evidence early, identify every responsible party and insurance layer, and pursue the full value of the loss through focused negotiation and, when necessary, trial. Our attorneys live in Central Pennsylvania and understand local courts, probate, and bad-faith delay tactics.
GLS Clients Who Didn’t Settle For Less
Proven Results. Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews
Case Results that Speak For Themselves
Millions Recovered for Grieving Families
$120,000,000
Recovered for Injury Victims
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PENNSYLVANIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER
LOST A LOVED ONE IN YORK, LANCASTER, OR WEST CHESTER?
WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU
Investigate, build, and litigate your case to victory
Wrongful Death Auto Accident
A fatal crash leaves families facing shock, questions, and immediate insurer contact. We investigate the collision, secure reports, footage, and vehicle data, identify every liable party and policy, and pursue full wrongful death and survival damages.
PA Wrongful Death Laws
Pennsylvania wrongful death and survival rules set who can file, what losses are recoverable, and how deadlines work. We guide families through probate, appointment of a personal representative, comparative negligence arguments, and filing requirements so that rights are protected.
Wrongful Death Work Accident
When a loved one dies on the job, workers' compensation may not be the only remedy. We preserve site evidence, review safety records, and pursue third-party claims against contractors, drivers, or manufacturers while coordinating estate and benefit issues.
Wrongful Death Compensation
Compensation can include funeral costs, final medical bills, lost income and benefits, and the value of support and services. We work with experts to document damages, uncover all insurance layers, and push back against fast, unfair offers.
Proudly serving personal injury, car accident, and workers’ compensation claim clients throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Lancaster County, Lancaster, PA, Chester County, West Chester, PA, and York County, York, PA. If you are searching for a personal injury lawyer near you, our attorneys serve clients in Lancaster, PA, Ephrata, PA, Lititz, PA, Manheim, PA, Elizabethtown, PA, Mount Joy, PA, Leola, PA, Columbia, PA, Millersville, PA, New Holland, PA, York, PA, Hanover, PA, Red Lion, PA, Spring Grove, PA, Dallastown, PA, Shrewsbury, PA, New Freedom, PA, West Chester, PA, Exton, PA, Media, PA, Phoenixville, PA, Coatesville, PA, Downingtown, PA, Kennett Square, PA, Oxford, PA, Malvern, PA, Avondale, PA, Parkesburg, PA, and other surrounding areas.
PROVEN RECORD IN PENNSYLVANIA WRONGFUL DEATH CASES AND TRIALS
At GLS Injury Law, results matter for grieving families. We have obtained substantial settlements and verdicts across Central Pennsylvania in wrongful death and survival action matters.
Our attorneys prepare cases with the evidence, experts, and trial readiness that insurers respect, and we communicate clearly so families understand what is happening and why.
WHAT WE DO BEST FOR FAMILIES IN YORK, CHESTER, AND LANCASTER COUNTIES, PA
Investigate, file, and maximize your claim
We move fast to protect evidence and build the case. Your claim starts the moment you contact GLS Injury Law. We focus on the proof that drives recovery:
Video and digital evidence: security footage, traffic cameras, phone data, and business records when available
Medical proof: hospital records, coroner findings, autopsy details, and expert review
Expert support when needed: accident reconstruction, medical examiner support, forensic economics, and vocational analysis
We handle insurance and defense communication.
Once retained, you do not have to navigate adjusters, recorded statements, or policy-limit pressure alone. We manage negotiations, demand packages, and litigation planning, including policy-limit demands and bad-faith issues where appropriate.
Need help now in York, West Chester, or Lancaster?
COMMON WRONGFUL DEATH TYPES IN CENTRAL PA
Fatal Transportation Incidents
- High-impact events: Preventable collisions can stem from unsafe speed, failure to yield, misjudged turns, and loss of control in poor weather or low visibility.
- Impairment and fatigue: Alcohol, drugs, and drowsy driving reduce reaction time and situational awareness, increasing the risk of deadly outcomes.
- Distraction and inattention: Phone use, in-vehicle screens, and looking away for seconds can lead to lane departures, rear-end impacts, and intersection tragedies.
- Commercial and job-related travel: Company vehicles and fleet operations can add layers of responsibility tied to hiring, training, maintenance, and insurance coverage.
- Unprotected road users: People outside enclosed vehicles face far greater risk when a crash occurs.
Our wrongful death lawyers focus on proving fault, preserving critical evidence, and identifying every available insurance policy to protect your family’s recovery.
Medical Negligence and Facility Errors
- Missed diagnosis and delayed treatment: When providers fail to recognize serious conditions or act quickly, a treatable emergency can become a fatal outcome.
- Medication and monitoring failures: Wrong prescriptions, dosing errors, overlooked interactions, and inadequate monitoring can cause rapid decline or fatal complications.
- Surgical and anesthesia complications: Preventable errors before, during, or after procedures can lead to catastrophic harm and loss of life.
- Long-term care and facility neglect: Infections, dehydration, untreated injuries, fall-related complications, and lack of supervision can become fatal when proper care standards are not followed.
Workplace, Construction, and Unsafe Property Deaths
- Workplace tragedies: Fatal incidents can occur from falls, struck-by events, heavy equipment hazards, and unsafe procedures, often involving multiple responsible parties.
- Unsafe property conditions: Poor maintenance, missing barriers, inadequate lighting, and negligent security can create conditions where a preventable death occurs.
- Defective products and equipment: Mechanical failures, missing safeguards, and dangerous design defects can cause fatal injuries and trigger claims against manufacturers and distributors.
WHAT WRONGFUL DEATH COMPENSATION CAN YOU RECOVER?
Economic damages: Funeral costs, lost income, medical expenses
- Funeral and burial expenses: services, cremation, cemetery costs, and related charges
- Medical bills before death: emergency transport, hospital care, intensive treatment, and final procedures
- Lost earnings and benefits: wages, health benefits, and retirement contributions your loved one would have provided
- Loss of financial support: housing, education, and daily expenses that the family relied upon
- Loss of services: household support, childcare, maintenance, and practical contributions
Non-economic damages: Loss of companionship and emotional distress
- Loss of consortium: the impact on marriage and family life after a preventable death
- Loss of guidance: parental care, direction, and life support for children and family members
- Emotional distress: grief-related harm, anxiety, and lasting trauma
- Survival action damages: pain and suffering your loved one experienced before death, when supported by evidence
Best Wrongful death Lawyers in Pennsylvania
GLS Injury Law serves Lancaster, York and Chester Counties, delivering maximum compensation for injury victims in car accidents, falls, and workplace injuries through investigation, negotiation, and litigation.
GET MAXIMUM COMPENSATION FOR
YOUR WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Investigate, build, and litigate your case to victory
Don’t Settle for Less…Call GLS!™
We can be reached through our website or by phone at 717-394-3004.
Free, No-Obligation Consultation
We’ll explain everything, answer your questions, and come to you if needed.
Focus on Your Recovery
GLS Injury Law fights for your full compensation so you can relax. Your peace of mind is our priority.
AVAILABLE 24/7
WHEN IT’S TIME TO CALL A WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER NEAR ME
Act quickly after the loss to protect evidence and deadlines
Contact GLS Injury Law as soon as you suspect negligence caused the death, especially if an insurance company asks for a recorded statement or paperwork.
Early legal involvement helps preserve surveillance footage, vehicle or device data, scene details, and witness accounts before they are lost, overwritten, or changed.
Serious liability disputes and coverage issues require experienced counsel
Timely action protects evidence and legal rights.
Two-Year Deadline
wrongful death claims are typically subject to a two-year statute of limitations from the date of death, with limited exceptions.
Evidence Preservation
police reports, medical records, witness statements, and scene photos must be gathered early.
PENNSYLVANIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWS THAT IMPACT YOUR CLAIM
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
Wrongful death actions are filed by the personal representative of the estate, appointed through probate or named in a will. Eligible beneficiaries typically include the surviving spouse, children, and parents.
Comparative negligence in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule can reduce damages if the deceased shared fault, as long as the fault is less than 50 percent. Insurers often try to inflate fault percentages; we counter with evidence and expert support.
Two-year statute of limitations and survival actions
Most wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. Survival actions are separate claims for losses suffered by the deceased before death, and they can run alongside wrongful death claims. Early counsel helps ensure both claims are preserved and filed correctly
Meet Your TOP Wrongful Death LAWYERS SERVING YORK, CHESTER COUNTY & LANCASTER COUNTY
Experienced Central PA wrongful death attorneys with local court knowledge and strong results.
Anthony M. Georgelis
Represents injured workers and personal injury victims across Pennsylvania with skilled, results-driven legal advocacy.
Christopher P. Larsen
Guides Pennsylvania auto accident, slip and fall, and dog bite clients through claims, IMEs, and legal challenges with care.
Thomas J. Sabatino
Advocates for car accident and workers’ compensation clients in Pennsylvania, through every stage of claims and appeals.
As Seen On
We Fight & Our Client's Win Big
When your world is turned upside down after a crash or injury, you need a legal team that won't back down. At GLS Injury Law, we take on insurers, dig into the facts, and build cases that maximize compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and future care. You get clear communication, fast action, and trial-ready preparation from day one.
TRUSTED BY HUNDREDS OF PERSONAL INJURY CLIENTS
We have hundreds of five-star reviews from happy clients on Google and Yelp.
A construction worker was killed when the walls of a building collapsed during an active project in Franklin County. GLS investigated workplace conditions, pursued third-party liability, and secured a substantial recovery for the surviving family.
— GLS WON —
$15,000,000
Fatal Construction Site Work Accident Claim
A child tragically drowned at a Lancaster hotel pool. GLS investigated premises safety and supervision practices and secured a significant wrongful death recovery for the family.
— GLS WON —
$1,600,000
Wrongful Death Claim
A client suffered serious injuries after being attacked by a dog while unloading groceries outside their home. GLS responded immediately, visiting the client in the hospital and launching a thorough investigation. Through aggressive advocacy, the firm held the owner accountable and secured a significant recovery.
— GLS WON —
$1,200,000
Dog Bite Claim
A pedestrian suffered severe internal and external injuries after being struck by a garbage truck while crossing the roadway. GLS pursued claims against both the driver and company, uncovering safety failures and securing a substantial settlement.
— GLS WON —
$1,450,000
Pedestrian Accident Claim
A tractor trailer driver was severely injured when a trash truck struck him head-on while he was performing job duties in Lancaster County. GLS established liability against the commercial operator and secured compensation for extensive injuries.
— GLS WON —
$1,675,000
Work-Related Truck Accident Claim
A forklift operator sustained multiple fractures and crush injuries after being struck by another forklift operated by a third-party contractor. GLS pursued both workers’ compensation and third-party claims to maximize recovery.
— GLS WON —
$1,658,000
Work-Related Tow Motor Accident Claim
A factory worker suffered a partial foot amputation in a workplace accident. GLS identified a responsible third party in addition to workers’ compensation and recovered compensation for pain, suffering, and other non-economic damages.
— GLS WON —
$1,750,000
Work Injury and Third-Party Claims
A motorcyclist suffered serious internal injuries requiring multiple surgeries after an SUV made an unlawful turn in front of the motorcycle. GLS proved fault and secured compensation reflecting the severity of medical treatment.
— GLS WON —
$1,490,000
Motorcycle Accident Claim
A husband and father was killed when a commercial truck ran a red light and collided with his vehicle. GLS reconstructed the crash, established fault, and obtained a multi-million-dollar recovery for his family.
— GLS WON —
$4,000,000
Tractor Trailer Accident Claim
A nursing home resident suffered multiple fractures after being improperly secured in a facility-operated van. GLS strategically litigated against ownership in a favorable venue, resulting in a seven-figure recovery.
— GLS WON —
$1,015,000
Passenger Van Accident Claim
HOW OUR wrongful death law firm HANDLES YOUR CASE
Direct attorney access, case updates, and no fee unless you recover.
With GLS Injury Law, you get direct access to experienced personal injury lawyers in Central PA. You receive your attorney's phone number and regular updates on investigations, medical records, negotiations, and court filings.
Local Offices and Service Areas
- Offices: Lancaster, PA, York, PA, and West Chester, PA
- Primary service areas: York County, Chester County, Lancaster County, and surrounding Central Pennsylvania communities
We work on a contingency fee. You pay no upfront costs. Attorney fees are earned only when we recover compensation through settlement or verdict.
OUR PROCESS
Free Consultation
Free case review to explain your rights, case value, and legal options. No pressure, no fees.
Investigation
Accident scene examination, witness interviews, police reports, surveillance footage, and expert consultation.
Medical Coordination
Work with treating physicians to document injuries and project future care needs.
Demand & Negotiation
Present detailed demand packages showing full liability and damages. Negotiate aggressively for maximum settlement.
Trial Preparation & Litigation
When insurers refuse fair offers, we file suit, conduct discovery, and present your case to a jury.
AVAILABLE 24/7
WRONGFUL DEATH FAQS FOR CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
Get clear answers about wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania.
Reviewed by Anthony M. Georgelis, Attorney at GLS Injury Law, on May 20th 2025.
Wrongful Death Case FAQs
What is a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal action filed when a person’s death is caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another party. In Pennsylvania, wrongful death claims are meant to provide compensation to surviving family members for their loss. This can include medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
At GLS Injury Law, we help families understand their rights under Pennsylvania’s Wrongful Death Act and Survival Act. The Wrongful Death Act provides compensation to surviving relatives, such as spouses, children, or parents, for the emotional and financial losses they have suffered. The Survival Act, on the other hand, allows the decedent’s estate to recover damages the deceased could have claimed had they lived, such as pain and suffering before death.
Our job is to build a strong case that not only honors your loved one’s memory but also holds the responsible party accountable. We handle every aspect- from investigation to litigation- so you can focus on healing.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, a wrongful death claim may initially be filed by the personal representative or executor of the deceased person’s estate. This individual is usually named in the decedent’s will or appointed by the court.
Any financial recovery from a wrongful death claim is distributed to the deceased’s beneficiaries- typically the surviving spouse, children, or parents. If no wrongful death claim is filed by the personal representative within six months of the date of death, any of the beneficiaries may initiate the lawsuit on behalf of all beneficiaries.
Our attorneys guide clients through this process, ensuring that the right individuals are represented and that all beneficiaries receive their fair share. These cases can sometimes involve complex family dynamics or disputes, and we bring a steady, experienced hand to help navigate such challenges.
What types of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?
In a wrongful death case, the law allows the surviving family members to seek a range of damages meant to compensate for both economic and non-economic losses. These may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
- Loss of future income and financial support
- Loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of household services the deceased would have provided
Additionally, under Pennsylvania’s Survival Act, the estate may recover damages such as the decedent’s pain and suffering, lost earnings, and medical expenses incurred between the time of injury and death.
At GLS Injury Law, we work closely with economists, medical professionals, and grief counselors to accurately assess the full extent of your losses. Our goal is to ensure your family receives the maximum compensation possible while honoring your loved one’s legacy.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of death. This means that if legal action is not initiated within this timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue compensation altogether.
While two years may seem like a long time, these cases often require substantial investigation, collection of evidence, and consultation with experts. That’s why we recommend contacting our firm as soon as possible after the loss.
Our legal team moves quickly and efficiently to preserve critical evidence and meet all legal deadlines. We know time is of the essence- not just for legal reasons, but to help families find a path forward as soon as they’re ready.
How is liability determined in a wrongful death case?
Determining liability involves proving that another party’s negligence or intentional misconduct directly caused the death of your loved one. This means establishing four key elements:
- Duty of Care – The responsible party had a legal obligation to act safely.
- Breach of Duty – They failed in that obligation.
- Causation – That failure caused the death.
- Damages – The death resulted in measurable losses to the survivors.
Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gather medical records, analyze accident reports, interview witnesses, and often consult with expert witnesses to build a compelling case.
Whether the death was caused by a car accident, workplace injury, defective product, or medical negligence, our extensive experience and tenacity enable us to prove fault and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Can I still file a wrongful death claim if my loved one was partially at fault?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, you can still recover damages in a wrongful death claim even if your loved one was partially at fault- as long as their degree of fault was less than 51%. This is known as modified comparative negligence.
However, any compensation awarded will be reduced in proportion to your loved one’s share of the fault. For example, if your loved one was found to be 30% at fault for the accident, the compensation would be reduced by that percentage.
Determining and arguing fault in these cases can be complex, which is why it’s critical to have experienced legal representation. At GLS Injury Law, we meticulously examine every angle to minimize the percentage of fault assigned to your loved one, maximizing the compensation available to your family.
What types of accidents commonly lead to wrongful death claims?
Wrongful death claims can arise from a wide variety of incidents. At our firm, we’ve represented families impacted by:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
- Medical malpractice and surgical errors
- Workplace accidents, especially in farming and construction
- Defective or dangerous products
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
- Agricultural equipment accidents, including tractor rollovers
Each type of case brings unique challenges, from understanding traffic laws to investigating equipment malfunctions. Our decades of experience across many wrongful death scenarios allow us to tailor our approach and build the strongest case possible.
No matter the situation, our priority is to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the resources your family needs to begin the healing process.
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?
A wrongful death claim compensates surviving family members for their personal losses due to their loved one’s death. This includes loss of companionship, funeral costs, and lost income the deceased would have provided.
A survival action, on the other hand, is brought by the deceased’s estate to recover damages the deceased could have claimed if they had survived. This includes the decedent’s pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages from the time of injury until death.
Both claims can often be filed simultaneously and are frequently handled together. At GLS Injury Law, we ensure that every possible avenue of compensation is pursued by thoroughly analyzing both claims and advocating for maximum recovery under each.
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death attorney?
At GLS Injury Law, we work on a contingency fee basis for wrongful death cases. That means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we recover compensation for you. Our fees are a percentage of the amount we win for you- if we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
We believe that financial barriers should never prevent grieving families from accessing the justice they deserve. That’s why we offer free consultations and advance all necessary costs related to the investigation and litigation of your case.
You’ve already suffered an unimaginable loss. Let us carry the legal burden while you focus on healing.
What should I do if I think I have a wrongful death case?
If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by another party’s negligence or misconduct, we recommend taking the following steps:
- Preserve evidence – Keep any documentation, photos, or communication related to the incident.
- Request medical and accident reports – These can serve as crucial evidence.
Avoid speaking to insurance companies without legal counsel – They may try to minimize or deny your claim. - Contact an experienced wrongful death attorney – The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of building a strong case.
At GLS Injury Law, we’re here to answer your questions, provide honest legal advice, and stand by you every step of the way. Reach out today for a free, confidential consultation.
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GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Don't let negligence go unchallenged. If your family is suffering after the loss of a loved one, contact GLS Injury Law today for your free consultation with a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Lancaster and the surrounding communities.
Our team of trusted Personal Injury Lawyers will review your claim, explain your options, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
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Service Areas: Lancaster, West Chester, York, Ephrata, Lititz, Hanover, Columbia, Downingtown, and communities across Lancaster County, Chester County, and York County, Pennsylvania.
Other Practice Areas
Serving Lancaster, Chester & York County families
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle collisions occur more frequently than ever, due to careless and distracted driving. GLS Injury Law…
YOUR TRUSTED PARTNERS IN PERSONAL INJURY, DEDICATED TO YOUR RECOVERY AND JUSTICE
GLS Injury Law helps families pursue accountability after preventable loss. We focus on evidence preservation, expert-backed damages analysis, and clear communication so your family can make informed decisions while we handle the legal fight.
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