What constitutes a Virginia wrongful death claim?

A: The unexpected or untimely death of a family member is one of the most difficult experiences anyone has to endure.  When fatal injuries result from the irresponsiblity or negligence of another party, the pain can be even more difficult to bear.  Such tragic loss is generally defined as wrongful death.  In the state of Virginia, a wrongful death claim is possible as long as the death was directly caused by the negligence or actions of another person or party, as in the case of a fatal Norfolk car accident caused by a drunk driver.  In legal terms, two factors are significant in determining whether a wrongful death claim is possible:  liability and causation.  Someone must be liable (legally responsible) for causing the fatal incident, and the resulting fatality must have been caused by that party's negligence. 

Although the above description of wrongful death generally applies, each fatal accident or incident must be examined thoroughly in order to determine whether a Virginia or Norfolk wrongful death claim may be filed.  If you have lost a loved one in a tragic accident in Norfolk, Eastern Shore, Newport News, Virginia Beach, Hampton, or another part of the state, we at the firm of Lawrence Land express our deepest condolences to you.  We will answer your questions for free at no obligation to you and provide you with free resources and information unique to your specific case.  To contact Virginia wrongful death lawyer Lawrence Land, fill out his confidential online form or call him at 800-800-1911.