Wrongful death is the most tragic possible outcome of an accident in West Virginia. It is the death of someone you love due to the preventable negligence or recklessness of another party. While nothing can make up for the wrongful death of a loved one, a civil claim could repay you and your family members for the money you spent on the unexpected loss, such as medical bills and funeral and burial costs. It could also provide better future financial stability by paying for long-term losses such as lost wages and inheritance. A wrongful death attorney can help your family maximize its financial recovery during a claim.

No Average Settlement Amount – Speak to a Lawyer

First, know that no average wrongful death settlement amount exists. No two cases are identical. What someone else received in a wrongful death suit could be substantially different from what you might receive. It is important to speak to a lawyer about your specific case rather than trying to search online for average recovery amounts. Most wrongful death attorneys in West Virginia offer free initial consultations, so you can get accurate information about your case at no cost or obligation. Only with this information from a lawyer can you enter into insurance negotiations with confidence.

Damages Available in a West Virginia Wrongful Death Claim

Understanding how much a wrongful death lawsuit might be worth in West Virginia takes knowledge of which damages the state will reimburse a family for in the aftermath of a tragic death. This can vary from state to state. Some states divide these cases into wrongful death claims and survival actions. One type is for the family’s recovery while the other will lead to an award for the deceased person’s estate. West Virginia combines both types into a single case, with compensation available for the family as well as the estate.

  • The deceased person’s final medical bills for the fatal injury or illness
  • Reasonable funeral and burial expenses
  • The decedent’s lost wages and employment benefits, including future lost earnings
  • Replacement of any lost inheritance
  • Compensation for damaged or destroyed property in the accident
  • Your mental anguish, sorrow and grief
  • The loss of the decedent’s companionship, guidance, knowledge, love, comfort and society (loss of consortium)

These are all compensable damages in a West Virginia wrongful death case. The defendant may lawfully have to pay your family money damages to cover all these costs and more. It will be up to you or your attorney, however, to determine the legally responsible party and file your wrongful death claim by the state’s deadline. In West Virginia, you will have two years from the date of death to bring a case. Missing this deadline will generally mean forfeiting any right you might have otherwise had to recover compensation for wrongful death.

Work With a Wrongful Death Lawyer in West Virginia

Speak to a wrongful death lawyer about your specific case for an accurate estimate of its value. Only a lawyer will have the knowledge and insight into your case to correctly calculate what it might be worth. With this information, you can enter into settlement negotiations with more confidence. You or your lawyer will be able to negotiate with the defendant’s insurance provider for fair and full financial recovery when you understand its true value.

Hiring an attorney often leads to greater compensation for a wrongful death claim in West Virginia that you could recover alone. Insurance companies might not take your case seriously until you hire a lawyer. The adjuster may offer greater monetary compensation when he or she realizes you can take your case to court. If the adjuster still does not treat your case fairly, your lawyer can help you with a wrongful death trial in your county. A trial might be necessary for fair recovery depending on the situation. Either way, a lawyer can guide you through the correct steps for fair results.

Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.

  • Taylor Downs was easy to talk to (I do not speak the legal language well!) and was very upfront and honest about the entire process of my case. He kept me updated as the case progressed, and answered my relentless questions. The end result was a favorable settlement that I’m not sure could have been any better with anyone else. In short, go see Taylor if you have a case. Don’t be intimidated to go seek his help, he won’t blow your brains out with “legal speak”.

    - PAUL MOUSER

  • Being referred to Taylor was the best thing I could have asked for. Taylor and staff are very easy to talk to. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

    - DAWN FRISENDA

  • If I ever have to go through it again I would definetly call Taylor right away. The group was so helpful through my situation and handled everything that needed to be done. They made a stressful situation a stress free situation. With Taylor you dont have to worry about one thing. Definietly would recomend to anyone.

    - TAYLOR G.

  • Efficient, knowledgeable, and friendly.

    - NOAH SCHUMAKER

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Manchin Injury Law Group, Took care of me when I got into a car accident while I was pregnant. Very scary moment for a first time mom but thankfully Manchin Injury Law Group had my back and treated me great. They made me feel as if I was part of their family. My son is now 7 Months Old and very happy and healthy. I’m very thankful for them for helping me through everything and getting me what we deserved. I 100% would recommend them to anyone. If I ever have an accident again they will be my number 1 phone call!

    - SHAWNNA SHAFFER.

  • The support given helped me to feel like I was included in my personal injury case every step of the way. I was informed about the entire process throughout. It was amazing how quick the turn around time was and I would definitely recommend Attorney Timothy J. Manchin to anyone!

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Taylor and Kelly worked hard on my case so I didn’t have to. Thanks guys!

    - TERRI L. ARMENTROUT

  • Excellent experience dealing with Manchin Injury Law. They were very responsive, professional and easy to talk to. I did my homework before I hired a lawyer after my accident and I am so glad I found Manchin Injury Law Group. If you are injured, give them a call!

    - VILLA COVENANTS

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - CHAD BILOTTA

  • Kelly and Taylor did all the hard work so that I didn’t have to. They both cared about my circumstance and got me a nice settlement. Taylor knows what he is doing and I felt comfortable with my case in his hands.

    - JASON + STACIE MORGAN

  • Great lawyers. They helped me with a West Virginia case.

    - JOSEPH SAUNDERS

  • Such a great experience with Taylor and this firm. Thankful for their diligence and their work on our case. Thank you to all!

    - RENEE FLORENCE WARNER

  • Had a easy and smooth experience with a great attorney so when you go there make sure you ask for Taylor.

    - TIM CROSS

  • My experience at the Manchin Injury Law Group was extremely positive, and I would recommend them to anyone who needs a compassionate and experienced lawyer on their side.

    - TAMMY LACARIA

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