Wrongful Death Accident Lawyer in Bensalem, PA

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence is one of the most devastating experiences a family can endure. When tragedy strikes, you deserve guidance from a compassionate advocate who understands both the legal and emotional weight of your situation. At Kalikhman & Rayz, every case is handled with dignity, respect, and relentless dedication to justice.

Kalikhman & Rayz attorneys
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21 +
Years Fighting for Injury Victims
$ 100 M+
Recovered for Clients
100 +
Years of Combined Legal Experience
Kalikhman & Rayz attorneys

If your loss stems from a preventable accident, a Bensalem wrongful death accident lawyer can help you pursue the accountability and compensation your family needs. Drawing on over 100 years of combined experience, we are proud to be a trusted choice for anyone in need of a Bensalem personal injury lawyer. If you are facing the unimaginable, don’t navigate this journey alone.

Call Kalikhman & Rayz today for a free and confidential consultation and the support you deserve.

Dedicated Advocates for Families Facing Wrongful Death Cases in Bensalem, PA

When your family is coping with the loss of a loved one, choosing the right law firm is one of the most important decisions you will make. At Kalikhman & Rayz, you are not just another case number. You are a family seeking justice, closure, and the resources to move forward.

Since our founding in 2005, our lawyers have helped thousands of clients recover tens of millions of dollars. That history matters, but what truly sets us apart is how we treat the people who put their trust in us. We take your injury personally, and we handle every case with dignity, respect, and relentless determination.

When you work with us, you will receive personal attention at every step. We answer your questions honestly, explain your options clearly, and stand by your side throughout the process. We also know how insurance companies operate, and our lawyers push back against their tactics and fight for the full compensation you deserve. We believe in arming our clients with knowledge and giving them the strength to make informed choices.

If your family has lost someone because of negligence, let us stand with you. With Kalikhman & Rayz, you will have compassionate advocates who are committed to seeking justice on your behalf.

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Understanding Wrongful Death in Pennsylvania

When a loved one’s life is cut short because of another person’s negligence, Pennsylvania provides a way for families to seek justice through a wrongful death claim. These cases are civil in nature, which means they focus on securing compensation and accountability—not criminal penalties. While the outcome of a criminal trial may impact your case, a wrongful death claim stands on its own, giving families a path to pursue justice even if criminal charges are never filed.

Our lawyers have seen wrongful death claims arise from many different types of accidents. Regardless of the cause, the common thread is that someone’s careless or reckless actions changed your family forever. At Kalikhman & Rayz, we believe these claims are about more than money—they are about holding wrongdoers accountable and helping families find the closure and stability they deserve.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Pennsylvania?

Not every family member has the legal authority to file a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania. Under 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 8301, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate—often named in a will or appointed by the court—must bring the action on behalf of the eligible beneficiaries. If the personal representative does not file within six months of the death, the right passes to the beneficiaries themselves.

Eligible beneficiaries include the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased. These are the only family members who may recover damages in a wrongful death action. Other relatives, such as siblings or cousins, cannot file or share in the recovery unless they can show legal dependency as defined under Pennsylvania law.

Because these rules are specific and time-sensitive, disputes among family members can sometimes arise. Our Bensalem, PA wrongful death attorneys guide you through these statutory requirements, ensure the claim is filed properly, and work to protect the rights of every eligible beneficiary. With our help, you can focus on grieving and healing while we handle the legal complexities.

Negligence Can Lead to Tragedy in Bensalem

Wrongful death claims may arise from many different circumstances, but in communities like Bensalem, PA, certain causes are more common. With major highways such as I-95, Route 1, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike running through the area, serious crashes unfortunately occur far too often. Families may lose loved ones in a car accident, commercial truck crash, motorcycle crash, or pedestrian accident that results from negligence on the road.

Bensalem also has a wide variety of commercial properties, apartment complexes, and retail spaces. When property owners fail to address dangerous conditions—such as icy walkways, poor lighting, or unsafe structures—fatal slip-and-fall accidents may occur. These incidents may give rise to wrongful death claims under Pennsylvania premises liability law.

Our lawyers at Kalikhman & Rayz understand the local realities families face in Bensalem and across Bucks County. By applying our knowledge of both motor vehicle accident law and premises liability principles, we may help families explore the best path toward accountability and compensation after a devastating loss.

Proving Negligence in a Wrongful Death Claim

For a wrongful death claim to succeed in Pennsylvania, families generally must show that another party’s negligence caused their loved one’s passing. Negligence is a legal concept that describes when someone fails to act with the care that a reasonable person would exercise in a similar situation. Our attorneys must establish the following elements in a claim:

  1. Duty of Care: The responsible party must have owed a duty of care to the deceased. For example, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely, and property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions.
  2. Breach of Duty: It must be shown that the responsible party failed to uphold that duty, such as by driving while distracted or ignoring dangerous hazards on their property.
  3. Causation: There must be a clear link between the negligent actions and the death.
  4. Damages: Finally, the death must have resulted in measurable losses.

Our lawyers at Kalikhman & Rayz may gather evidence such as accident reports, witness testimony, medical records, and expert opinions to help establish these elements. By building a strong foundation, we may help families pursue the accountability they deserve.

Damages Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Case

When a family loses a loved one, no amount of money can replace that loss. Still, Pennsylvania law recognizes that families face very real financial and emotional burdens after a wrongful death. A claim allows survivors to pursue compensation that provides stability and holds the at-fault party accountable.

Beneficiaries may recover damages for expenses directly related to the death, including:

  • Medical expenses for care and treatment prior to death.
  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Lost wages and benefits the deceased would have provided to the household.

Beyond financial losses, the law also permits recovery for the loss of companionship, comfort, guidance, and emotional support that the deceased provided to family members. These non-economic damages recognize the profound human cost of a wrongful death.

At Kalikhman & Rayz, our Bensalem wrongful death accident lawyers carefully evaluate claims to ensure that your family pursues the maximum compensation available under the law. We handle the legal details with diligence and compassion so you can focus on honoring your loved one and finding a path forward.

Survival Actions in Pennsylvania

In addition to a wrongful death claim, Pennsylvania law also allows for a related claim known as a survival action. Under 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 8302, this type of action continues the legal rights the deceased would have had if they had survived the accident.

Unlike wrongful death damages, which are paid directly to surviving family members, compensation from a survival action becomes part of the deceased’s estate. These funds are then distributed according to the will or, if no will exists, under Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws.

Together, wrongful death and survival actions may provide families with a more complete path to accountability and financial recovery. Because these matters can be quite complicated, our team is here to help you determine the right course of action for your family.

How Compensation Is Calculated in Wrongful Death Cases

Compensation in a wrongful death case depends on the unique circumstances of each situation. Pennsylvania law does not provide a set formula, but certain factors may be considered when determining damages. These can include the deceased person’s age, health, earning capacity, and the financial and emotional support they provided to their family.

In some cases, lawyers may consult with experts like economists or medical professionals to show how the loss will affect a family over time. While results vary, understanding these factors may help families see how compensation is assessed in wrongful death claims.

We Guide Families Through Every Step of the Way

The aftermath of a wrongful death is about more than paperwork and legal filings. Families are often coping with overwhelming grief, uncertainty, and financial strain. At Kalikhman & Rayz, we understand that meaningful representation involves more than building a strong case—it also means supporting people through one of the hardest experiences of their lives.

Navigating a wrongful death claim can feel overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. While every case is unique, families may expect certain steps to occur as their claim moves forward.

  • Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation: A wrongful death claim often begins with a consultation, where our lawyers may review the circumstances and help you understand your legal options.
  • Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Attorneys may investigate the incident by collecting records, speaking with witnesses, and consulting experts to establish how negligence may have contributed to the loss.
  • Filing the Claim or Lawsuit: If grounds exist, a formal claim may be filed against the responsible party. This could involve negotiations with insurance companies or, if necessary, pursuing a lawsuit in court.
  • Negotiation and Settlement Discussions: Many cases are resolved outside the courtroom. Our lawyers may negotiate with insurers to reach a fair settlement that reflects both financial and emotional losses.
  • Litigation and Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, a case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury evaluates the evidence and determines damages.

Our lawyers are committed to treating every client with dignity and respect. We provide clear communication so you always know what to expect, and we make it a priority to explain your options in plain language. Many families tell us that this approach gives them peace of mind and allows them to feel confident in the decisions they make.

By pairing compassionate care with diligent legal work, we strive to stand by families not only as advocates in the courtroom, but also as trusted partners during a very difficult chapter.

"The outcome of a case often comes down to preparation. We build every claim as if it may go to trial."

Eric Rayz, Founding Partner

We Offer Help During Tough Times

When a wrongful death occurs, families often find themselves dealing with insurance companies that are more concerned with protecting profits than supporting survivors. While insurers may appear sympathetic at first, their goal is usually to minimize payouts.

Insurance adjusters may use several tactics to reduce what they owe, such as:

  • Delaying claims to pressure families into accepting less.
  • Disputing liability by blaming the victim or shifting fault.
  • Offering quick, low settlements before the full impact of the loss is understood.
  • Requesting excessive documentation to create obstacles and discourage families.

These strategies can be frustrating and may feel like an additional burden during an already difficult time. Having our firm by your side may help balance the scales. Our lawyers understand how insurers approach these cases, and we are prepared to push back against unfair tactics.

While no attorney can guarantee results, knowledgeable legal representation may improve your ability to secure a settlement or judgment that more accurately reflects the magnitude of your family’s loss.

Act Quickly Following a Loved One’s Passing in Bensalem, PA

Like all legal claims, wrongful death actions in Pennsylvania are subject to deadlines known as statutes of limitations. These laws establish how long a family may have to file a claim after losing a loved one.

Under 42 Pa. C.S.A. § 5524(2), wrongful death actions generally must be filed within two years of the date of death. However, certain circumstances may affect when the clock starts or whether exceptions apply. For example, issues involving minors or delayed discovery of negligence could potentially impact the filing timeline.

Because these rules can be complex, families may benefit from speaking with an attorney as soon as possible after a loss. Consulting a lawyer early may help preserve evidence, avoid missed deadlines, and ensure that your rights are fully protected.

Our Process for Your Case

Here's our step-by-step process:

1
1

Meet With Us

We'll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain what you can expect moving forward.

2
2

Focus on Recovery

Your health comes first. While you receive treatment, we stay in touch and begin building the foundation of your case.

3
3

Build Your Case

We gather evidence, review medical records, and document the full impact of your injuries.

4
4

Evaluate Your Claim

We assess your case, prepare your claim, and begin negotiating with the insurance company.

5
5

Fight for Your Future

If the insurance company refuses to treat your case fairly, we're prepared to move forward with litigation and continue advocating for you.

Kal Rayz Law

Put a Team on Your Side That Fights to Win

Choosing the right injury lawyer can make the recovery process less stressful. Our attorneys personally handle your case, keep you informed, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation before your filing deadline expires.

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Giving Back by Getting Results

We got into personal injury law to help our neighbors face some of the toughest moments of their lives. Helped clients recover tens of millions of dollars in compensation, with results like:

$750,000

Slip And Fall

$625,000

Motor Vehicle Accident

$250,000 Initial Offer by Insurance

$600,000

Motor Vehicle Accident

$300,000

Motor Vehicle Accident

$225,000

W/C Premises

$155,000 Initial Offer by Insurance

$200,000

Car Accident

$29,000 Initial Offer by Insurance

$185,000

Car Accident

Offices Across Southeastern Pennsylvania

Our firm serves the greater Philadelphia area and the rest of Southeast Pennsylvania. You can visit us or call us at one of our conveniently located offices:

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Huntingdon Valley
1051 County Line Rd # A, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
(215) 364-5030
(215) 364-5029
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Broad Street
4527 N. Broad St., PA 19140
(215) 364-5030
(215) 364-5029
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Hunting Park
141 E. Hunting Park Ave., PA 19124
(215) 364-5030
(215) 364-5029
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Allentown
329 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA 18102
(215) 364-5030
(215) 364-5029

FAQs

What Is the Average Wrongful Death Settlement in PA?

There is no true “average” wrongful death settlement in Pennsylvania because every case depends on its own facts. Factors that may influence compensation include the age and health of the deceased, lost wages and benefits, the extent of medical and funeral expenses, and the impact on surviving family members. Consulting with an attorney may help you understand what damages might be available in your situation.

What Are the Odds of Winning a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

The chances of success in a wrongful death case vary widely. Outcomes often depend on the strength of the evidence, the circumstances of the death, the parties involved, and how liability is established. While no lawyer can predict or guarantee results, our team focuses on presenting strong claims and protecting the rights of family members during negotiations or litigation.

What Evidence Should Be Admitted in a Wrongful Death Suit?

Evidence in a wrongful death case may include accident reports, medical records, photographs, witness testimony, and expert opinions. Financial records such as pay stubs or tax returns may also help demonstrate the economic impact of the loss. The specific evidence that may be admitted depends on the facts of the case and the rules of evidence in Pennsylvania courts. A wrongful death accident attorney with Kalikhman & Rayz can help identify, preserve, and present the most relevant materials to support the claim.

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Real Experiences.

There is no better measure of our work than the experiences of the people we've had the privilege to represent. We invite you to read what our clients have shared about working with Kalikhman & Rayz.

Resources for Injury Victims

The aftermath of an accident can be a lot to handle. Here are some resources to get you started before you call our team:

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Go Bald or Go Broke

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Let's Build Your Case the Right Way From the Start

The decisions made early in your case can have a lasting impact on the outcome. Start with a team that takes a more thoughtful, strategic approach from day one.

Let's Build Your Case the Right Way From the Start

Lawrence Kalikhman
Eric Rayz