Compassionate Advocacy with 50 Years of Insight
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
Seeking Accountability and Compensation
A wrongful death action arises when the negligence, recklessness, or wrongful actions of another party lead to the death of an individual. These legal claims permit surviving family members or the estate’s personal representative to seek justice and compensation for losses and damages.
Recoverable Damages
In Oregon, only specific damages are recoverable in a wrongful death action. These include economic damages for medical expenses, burial services, loss of income, pain and suffering, monetary loss to the estate, loss of society, companionship, and services to surviving family members. Punitive damages may also be sought if applicable.
Legal Nuances and PIP Benefits
Legal Framework and No-Fault Coverage
Wrongful death claims in Oregon operate under the framework of ORS 30.020. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) plays a crucial role in the auto insurance system, providing coverage for medical expenses up to $15,000 in motor vehicle accidents, including those resulting in wrongful death. PIP benefits, characterized by a “no-fault” approach, offer essential coverage, including funeral benefits.
Why Choose Our Oregon Personal Injury Firm for Wrongful Death Claims?
Defending Insurance Companies for 50 Years
The first rule of a successful negotiation is: Know Your Opponent. In an injury case, your opponents are (1) the insurance industry, and (2) their highly skilled defense law firms.
Fortunately for Spooner Staggs clients, no law firm knows the insurance industry better than we do―we spent 50 years as one of the insurance industry’s top defense firms for their biggest, toughest cases. We’ve walked in their shoes, analyzed thousands of cases for them, and encouraged fair outcomes for hundreds of wrongful death claims.
This rare experience has given us an insider’s knowledge and understanding into how the insurance industry analyzes, evaluates, prices, and settles cases. We’ve walked in their shoes, so we know all their tools, tricks, and techniques. We know the buttons to push and the levers to pull to motivate them to settle cases more quickly and for more money.
With an unparalleled understanding of insurance companies cultivated through years of defending them, we bring a uniquely powerful advantage to those seeking justice after a tragic wrongful death injury.
Fierce Oregon Wrongful Death Trial Lawyers
Boasting a track record of successful jury trials that few Oregon firms can equal, we are relentless advocates for our clients. We are always ready to take cases to trial, ensuring that our seriously injured clients receive genuine justice.
Insider Knowledge
Understanding the mindset of insurance companies is crucial when seeking fair compensation. We possess a nuanced insight into how insurers operate, evaluate cases, and make settlement decisions. This knowledge allows us to strategically leverage that insight to ensure our clients receive the maximum settlement for their injuries.
Trial Mastery
In an era where fewer cases proceed to trial, we stand as fierce and effective trial lawyers. With a track record of successful jury trials that few law firms in Oregon can equal, we’re ready to expertly take your case to trial if necessary. Our commitment to real justice for wrongful death victims sets us apart from “paper tiger” lawyers who shy away from the courtroom.
Determining Liability and Complex Investigations
In wrongful death claims, determining liability is pivotal for seeking compensation. The estate may pursue a claim against the responsible party’s insurance company. However, these claims can be intricate, involving multiple responsible parties and liability theories. Timely evidence gathering and a comprehensive investigation are essential to explore all potential sources of recovery.
Contact Us for Dedicated Legal Representation in Portland, Salem, or across Oregon
Having defended personal injury claims, including wrongful death, for five decades, our firm now stands as advocates for families who have lost loved ones due to the negligence of others. If your loved one’s life was cut short due to someone else’s fault, call us to discuss your case with our compassionate attorneys.