When a Tragedy Becomes a Wrongful Death Case

 Winter in Virginia brings beauty — and risk. Heavy snow, ice, and freezing rain can cause multi-vehicle pileups, tractor-trailer rollovers, and dangerous slip-and-fall conditions on private and commercial property.

 When those hazards lead to a loved one’s death, families may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim if someone’s negligence caused the fatality. Below we explain how wrongful death law works in Virginia, common winter scenarios that give rise to claims, and what it takes to prove negligence. 

What is a wrongful death claim in Virginia?

Under Virginia law, when a person’s death is caused by the “wrongful act, neglect, or default” of another, the responsible party may be sued for damages by the decedent’s personal representative — essentially a wrongful death action. This statute creates a civil remedy even when the fatal act also results in criminal charges. 

https://www.hiltonsomer.com/when-a-tragedy-becomes-a-wrongful-death-case/

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