When someone’s negligence is responsible for a loved one’s death, New Jersey law allows certain family members to recover compensation for their economic and non-economic losses. While no amount of compensation can ever truly rectify the situation, a civil wrongful death claim can seek accountability and help ease the burden brought on by unexpected burial and funeral costs and loss of the decedent’s financial support.
A knowledgeable Voorhees personal injury attorney from Aronberg Kouser Snyder & Lindemann P.A. can review your situation and explain if you have a viable wrongful death claim.
Why Choose Us at Aronberg, Kouser, Snyder & Lindemann, P.A.?
For decades, families throughout Voorhees, Cherry Hill, and surrounding areas have trusted us with their most personal cases. We have successfully won for our clients, securing verdicts in court and negotiating for maximum compensation outside the courtroom. We treat our clients with compassion in our pursuit of justice. During this difficult time, you can count on us to lead you with confidence and understanding throughout the legal process. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Voorhees?
New Jersey law only allows the appointed personal representative or executor of the decedent’s estate to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, they do on behalf of the closest relatives to the decedent, such as the surviving spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, or other extended family members.
How to Prove Negligence in a Wrongful Death Claim in Voorhees, NJ?
Proving liability in a wrongful death case is similar to proving negligence in a personal injury case. You must show that the defendant owed a duty of care to your loved one, breached that duty of care, and caused you to suffer damages. Proving these legal elements requires evidence such as:
- Medical records and autopsy reports
- Witness statements
- Videos or photos of the accident
- Witness testimony from first responders, law enforcement officers, or expert witnesses
- Documentary evidence, such as inspection reports or personnel records
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in New Jersey?
New Jersey has a statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including wrongful death claims. In New Jersey, you have two years to file a case. In wrongful death cases, this is two years from the decedent’s death, not the date of the accident. So, if your loved one was initially injured in a car accident and then succumbed to those injuries two months later, you would have until the second anniversary of their death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Exceptions can apply to the statute of limitations. For example, in cases involving murder or manslaughter where the defendant was convicted, found not guilty by reason of insanity, or adjudicated delinquent, there is no time limit to file the case.
However, you should not delay in reaching out to an experienced wrongful death lawyer for help. Your lawyer will need time to gather evidence, build your case, and negotiate a settlement.
Call Our Voorhees Wrongful Death Attorney Today
If you would like to learn more about whether you have legal grounds to file a wrongful death case, contact the knowledgeable legal team at Aronberg, Kouser, Snyder & Lindemann, P.A. for legal assistance.
