On February 16th 2022,  around 9:45 am, Portland police officers responded to a motorcycle accident in the Montavilla neighborhood. After the accident, the motorcyclist was identified as 43-year-old David Wickham, an archeologist and lover of science. Portland law enforcement explains that they rushed Wickham to the hospital where, despite “extensive lifesaving efforts,” he died due to severe injuries.

Wickham was an avid community member and dedicated his time to his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and his wife and two sons. His motorcycle was a lifelong passion, and he enjoyed many hours of riding around the area. Many individuals share his passion and, unfortunately, also suffer severe injuries in motorcycle accidents. If your family member passed away and you believe another person or party was partially or fully at-fault, seek legal assistance immediately.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

When someone is killed due to another person or party’s negligence, specific individuals may file a wrongful death claim. These types of legal proceedings provide those affected by the sudden loss of their loved one with compensation. While compensation can never amount to the loss of someone you love, it can help relieve some financial burdens you may face and provide you with the time and ability to mourn.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

While many people may feel the loss of another person, there are only a few individuals who may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of another person. Since the victim is unable to hold the responsible person or party accountable, another individual may act as a personal representative, including:

  • Spouse
  • Children
  • Parents
  • Stepchildren
  • Stepparents
  • Any individual who, per intestate succession laws, would be entitled to inherit personal property

In most cases, the decedent’s immediate family members are personal representatives in wrongful death claims. However, a person may claim to suffer from the loss and seek compensation with the help of a lawyer. If you are unsure of your ability to act as a personal representative for a wrongful death claim, speak with an experienced lawyer.

Damages You Can Recover in a Wrongful Death Claim

Wrongful death claims are complex and overwhelming for those also mourning the loss of their loved one. You deserve to have the time and financial ability to grieve your loved one’s loss. With the help of a wrongful death lawyer, you can recover compensation for the following damages and charges:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Hospital and treatment costs
  • Disability
  • Funeral expenses
  • Loss of income and services
  • Loss of companionship
  • Property damages
  • Punitive damages

For specific circumstances, individuals may be entitled to punitive damages, which are reserved for extreme and intentional negligence. Punitive damages are set to punish or make an example out of an individual, so others do not make the same mistake. Speak with your lawyer about the damages you may be entitled to recover.

Find Legal Assistance with a Reliable Car Accident Attorney in Portland, Oregon

There’s nothing that can prepare you for the pain of losing someone you love. You deserve justice and the ability to grieve with your family. Our Rizk Law lawyers understand the challenges you may face during a wrongful death claim and will do everything in our power to make the process as clear as possible.

With years of experience in Oregon’s legal community, we have the connections and resources to provide you with the justice you and your loved one deserve. Speak with one of our team members and schedule a free consultation today by calling (503) 245-5677 or filling out our contact form today.

Author: Rizk Law

Were you injured in an accident that was not your fault? Are your bills piling up while your pain and suffering seem to never end? Is an insurance carrier standing in your way of the money you need to get your life back on track? Then you need a lawyer who knows how insurance carriers think — and can fight them for the maximum compensation you deserve. You need Rizk Law.