When to Call a Wrongful Death Attorney in Washington State After a Fatal Accident

September 30, 2025

in Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death Attorney Washington State

When to Call a Wrongful Death Attorney in Washington State After a Fatal Accident

Losing a loved one in a fatal accident is one of the most devastating experiences a family can face. In Washington State, when a person’s death is caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm, surviving relatives may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. While no amount of compensation can truly make up for such a tragic loss, legal action can provide financial support, accountability, and a measure of justice.

At Brumley Law Firm, we help grieving families navigate the complex legal process following a fatal accident. Our experienced Seattle wrongful death attorneys understand the emotional toll and legal challenges these cases present, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

What Is Considered a Wrongful Death in Washington State?

A wrongful death in Washington occurs when a person dies due to the negligent or intentional act of another. Under Washington law (RCW 4.20.010), a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed if the person would have had the right to file a personal injury claim had they survived.

Common causes of wrongful death in Washington include:

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Washington?

Only specific individuals can file a wrongful death action in Washington State. Typically, a personal representative of the deceased person’s estate initiates the claim on behalf of the following parties:

  • Surviving spouse or state registered domestic partner
  • Surviving children or stepchildren
  • If none of the above exist, the deceased person’s parents or siblings may qualify

What Is the Role of the Personal Representative?

The personal representative is responsible for filing wrongful death claims and managing the estate’s legal interests. This person may be named in the deceased person’s will or appointed by the court.

A skilled wrongful death attorney can help ensure the personal representative fulfills their legal duties correctly and that all surviving family members are represented fairly in the claim.

Legal Criteria for a Wrongful Death Claim

To establish a successful wrongful death case in Washington State, you must prove:

  • A person died due to another’s wrongful act, negligence, or failure to act
  • The defendant breached a legal duty (e.g., a driver who caused a car crash or a healthcare provider who committed medical malpractice)
  • The wrongful act directly caused the victim’s death
  • Surviving family members suffered financial or emotional harm

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Washington Wrongful Death Claim?

Washington law allows for a wide range of compensatory damages in a wrongful death suit. These include both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages:

  • Medical bills and medical and funeral expenses
  • Burial expenses
  • Lost wages and future income the deceased would have earned
  • Loss of support to the surviving family

Non-Economic Damages:

  • Mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of companionship
  • Suffering prior to the victim’s death
  • Loss of parental guidance for surviving children

In Washington State, punitive damages are generally not available in wrongful death cases. However, the specific facts of a case may influence the types of damages recoverable, so it’s important to consult an attorney about your options.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Washington

In Washington State, the statute of limitations for filing wrongful death actions is three years from the date of the person’s death. Missing this deadline could permanently bar surviving relatives from seeking compensation. It’s critical to consult a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your rights.

Why You Need a Wrongful Death Attorney in Washington State

Wrongful death claims involve complicated legal issues, multiple defendants, and emotional distress that can make navigating the legal system overwhelming. An experienced wrongful death attorney in Washington State can:

  • Investigate the cause of the fatal accident
  • Preserve evidence and gather medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony
  • Handle the insurance claim process
  • Guide you through the legal process from filing to trial if necessary
  • Our attorneys work to build a strong case and pursue fair compensation through settlement or trial

Brumley Law Firm provides the compassion and experience you need during this difficult time. We represent clients in Seattle, Tacoma, Kent, and throughout Western Washington, helping families hold responsible parties legally and financially accountable.

Seattle Wrongful Death Attorneys Who Understand Your Loss

Our Seattle wrongful death attorneys have handled cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, and more. We know how devastating these tragedies can be for surviving relatives, and we work tirelessly to protect your rights.

We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. You won’t owe attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. However, you may still be responsible for certain legal costs or expenses.

Understanding Common Fatal Accidents in Washington

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), fatal accidents in Washington often involve:

  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Speeding
  • Commercial trucks
  • Motorcycle crashes

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that thousands of fatal crashes nationwide each year are linked to these same causes.

Wrongful Death Settlements and Compensation

Wrongful death settlements in Washington vary depending on the facts of the case, including the age and occupation of the deceased, the level of negligence, and the financial needs of the surviving family.

An experienced wrongful death lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and pursue appropriate compensation based on the facts of your case.

Let Brumley Law Firm Help You Seek Justice

At Brumley Law Firm, we understand that no lawsuit can undo the pain of a loved one’s death. However, a wrongful death lawsuit can help your family:

  • Seek compensation for economic and emotional losses
  • Ensure responsible parties are held accountable
  • A wrongful death lawsuit may provide financial relief and help bring closure to affected families

Our legal team is committed to providing the support, skill, and sensitivity your family deserves. Let us handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing.

Call for a Free Consultation

If you believe your loved one died due to someone else’s wrongful act, don’t wait. Contact Brumley Law Firm today for a no obligation consultation with a skilled wrongful death attorney. We are here for you every step of the way.

Brumley Law Firm
Serving Seattle, Tacoma, Kent, and Western Washington
Call us at (833) 740-2275 to schedule a free consultation.