Areas Served
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is heartbreaking. When the loss happens because of someone else’s careless or reckless behavior, the grief often comes with questions, anger, and a need for justice. In communities like Crabtree – located in Westmoreland County, just an hour outside Pittsburgh – families often do not know what steps to take after a fatal accident.
If you are dealing with the loss of a family member due to someone else’s actions, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. The legal process can be complex, but you do not have to handle it alone. Stine & Associates serves clients in Crabtree and across Westmoreland County. Located just two minutes from the Greensburg courthouse, our office is ideally positioned to offer experienced, compassionate legal support.
Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation with a wrongful death attorney and learn how we can help you seek justice for your loved one.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Pennsylvania
A wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a direct result of another person or entity’s negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct. These cases are civil, not criminal, and they aim to support surviving family members financially.
Wrongful death claims can arise from various situations, including:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle crashes
- Workplace accidents and industrial incidents
- Medical errors or hospital negligence
- Defective products
- Unsafe property conditions
Only specific individuals may bring these claims in Pennsylvania, including the decedent’s spouse, children, or parents. If the deceased’s beneficiaries do not act within six months, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate may file directly. Either way, a successful claim can recover compensation for both economic and emotional losses.
Accidents That Lead to Wrongful Death in Crabtree
While Crabtree is a small area, accidents can and do happen here. The roads that run through town – including Route 119 and nearby highways – see daily traffic, including commercial vehicles. Collisions involving trucks or impaired drivers are not uncommon. Likewise, nearby construction zones, industrial facilities, and hospitals each pose risks of fatal injury.
Some common causes of wrongful death in Crabtree and the greater Westmoreland County area include:
- Distracted driving and drunk driving crashes
- Unsafe work environments or a lack of safety equipment
- Medical negligence at local hospitals and care facilities
- Fatal slip and fall accidents on private or commercial properties
- Equipment malfunctions or defective machinery
Each of these situations can cause devastating loss. At Stine & Associates, we take time to investigate the specific details of your case to hold the responsible party accountable.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
Under Pennsylvania law, wrongful death lawsuits must be filed by:
- The surviving spouse
- The children of the deceased
- The parents of the deceased
If none of these relatives are living, or if no claim is filed within six months of the date of death, the estate may pursue the claim and distribute any recovery in accordance with state law.
We guide families through this process, helping them understand their legal rights and what to expect.
How a Wrongful Death Claim Differs from a Survival Action
In Pennsylvania, two types of legal claims can arise after a death caused by negligence: a wrongful death claim and a survival action.
- Wrongful death claims provide compensation to surviving family members for their losses.
- Survival actions pursue damages the deceased could have claimed had they survived, such as pain and suffering before death.
Both types of claims may be filed together, and they often overlap. A lawyer can help determine which is appropriate for your situation and handle both claims if necessary.
What Types of Compensation Are Available?
While no legal action can replace the person you have lost, wrongful death compensation can provide financial stability and support during a difficult time. Recoverable damages may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills from the final injury or illness
- Lost wages and future income that the deceased would have earned
- Loss of services, comfort, guidance, and companionship
- Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members
In some cases, punitive damages may also apply. These are awarded in instances of gross negligence or intentional harm to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
Our team consults with economists, medical experts, and other professionals to calculate damages accurately and pursue a full and fair outcome.
Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Cases in Pennsylvania
Time is limited when it comes to filing a wrongful death lawsuit. In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from death to take legal action. Missing this deadline can result in your claim being permanently barred.
Some exceptions may apply in rare situations, but it is best not to delay. Speaking with an attorney early can make a significant difference. At Stine & Associates, we handle the legal timeline for you so you can focus on your family.
How We Build a Strong Wrongful Death Case
Wrongful death claims are built on evidence. To succeed, you must show that the defendant had a duty of care, violated that duty, and directly caused your loved one’s death. Our legal team gathers and analyzes materials such as:
- Police and accident reports
- Medical records and autopsy findings
- Eyewitness statements
- Photos or videos of the scene
- Expert witness testimony
Whether your case involves a car crash, medical error, or workplace incident, we take a methodical approach to develop a clear, compelling claim.
Why Families in Crabtree Choose Stine & Associates
We are not a national law firm trying to handle your case from afar. We are part of your community. Our firm is located at 110 East Pittsburgh St., Suite 2, in Greensburg, and serves families throughout Westmoreland County, including Crabtree.
Our firm is known for offering personal service backed by years of experience. We have earned a reputation for listening closely, answering your questions, and giving honest guidance. If insurance companies do not act reasonably, we do not hesitate to take your case to trial.
When you work with us, you can count on:
- Responsive communication
- Compassionate, respectful treatment
- Detailed case preparation
- Aggressive representation when needed
We know the local court systems, judges, and opposing counsel. That insight can be a significant asset as we fight for justice on your behalf.
What to Expect When You Call Our Office
We know it is hard to talk about legal matters when you are grieving. When you call or visit our office, we aim to make the process as easy as possible. During your consultation, we will:
- Listen to your story and answer your questions
- Explain your rights and legal options
- Discuss potential timelines and compensation
- Lay out the next steps if you decide to move forward
You will never feel pressured to take action. Our job is to offer information and guidance so you can make the right decision for your family.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If someone else’s careless or reckless actions caused your loved one’s death in Crabtree or anywhere in Westmoreland County, you have the right to pursue justice. Let Stine & Associates, P.C., help.
Our Greensburg office – just minutes from the courthouse – is a convenient resource for families throughout the region. We understand what is at stake and are ready to advocate for you every step of the way. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation with a dedicated wrongful death attorney.