Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
Losing a loved one is devastating, and you may be searching for answers and accountability. If you need a wrongful death lawyer in Orangetown, we can help your family pursue a claim while you focus on grieving. Our team at Shulman & Hill Injury Lawyers handles fatal car crashes, workplace incidents, and dangerous premises.
Our Orangetown personal injury lawyers represent families throughout Orangetown and Rockland County. We handle wrongful death claims under New York law and related survival actions when appropriate.
What To Do After a Fatal Accident
In the days and weeks after a loss, certain steps may help preserve your claim while you care for your family:
- Gather documents such as police reports, medical records, and insurance policies.
- Preserve evidence such as photos, videos, clothing, and damaged items.
- Write down the names of witnesses and any case numbers.
- Keep bills and receipts for funeral, travel, and related expenses.
- Avoid posting details about the incident on social media.
- Contact a wrongful death attorney in Orangetown before speaking with insurers.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Case
Under New York law, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the decedent’s estate. Any recovery is distributed to eligible family members, which may include a spouse, children, or other dependents.
A related survival action may also be brought to recover damages for the decedent’s conscious pain and suffering, medical expenses, and other losses experienced before death. These damages are recovered by the estate.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death cases often arise from serious incidents that result from negligence or unsafe conditions.
Fatal car accidents are a leading cause, often involving speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, or failure to follow traffic laws.
Workplace incidents and unsafe property conditions can also lead to fatal injuries. Unsafe job sites, inadequate safety measures, or hazardous premises may contribute to preventable deaths. In these cases, responsible parties may include employers, property owners, contractors, or other third parties.
What Compensation May Be Available in Orangetown Wrongful Death Cases
New York wrongful death damages are generally limited to financial losses suffered by surviving family members. These may include:
- Loss of financial support the decedent would have provided
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of services, support, and parental guidance
Unlike some states, New York law generally does not allow recovery for emotional grief or loss of companionship in wrongful death claims.
Through a survival action, the estate may also recover damages for the decedent’s conscious pain and suffering prior to death, as well as related medical expenses.
We may work with economists and other professionals to evaluate financial losses and project long-term impact. Shulman & Hill has recovered over $1 billion for clients across New York.
Liability and Comparative Fault Under New York Law
New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule. If the decedent is found partially at fault, any recovery may be reduced by that percentage, but compensation may still be available.
Multiple parties may share liability, including drivers, property owners, employers, manufacturers, or other entities. We identify potentially responsible parties and available insurance coverage.
Orangetown Filing Deadlines and the Statute of Limitations
Most wrongful death claims in New York must generally be filed within two years from the date of death. Missing this deadline may prevent recovery.
Certain cases, including those involving public entities, may require a Notice of Claim within 90 days.
Timing can vary depending on the circumstances, so early evaluation is important.
How We Build Wrongful Death Cases
We work to secure evidence as early as possible, which may include:
- Police and incident reports
- Medical records and billing documentation
- Scene photographs and surveillance footage
- Vehicle data and inspection records
- Witness statements
We may also consult with professionals such as accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and economists to evaluate liability and damages.
Dealing With Insurance Companies After a Fatality
Insurance companies may attempt to resolve claims quickly or request recorded statements before the full circumstances are understood. You are generally not required to speak with the other party’s insurer before consulting an attorney.
We handle communications with insurers and pursue settlement where appropriate. If a fair resolution is not reached, we may file a lawsuit in the appropriate New York court.
Why Choose Our Orangetown Wrongful Death Attorneys
We focus on helping families in Orangetown pursue claims with clear communication and careful handling of sensitive matters. You receive updates on the investigation, liability issues, and case progress.
Our team has experience handling fatal accident claims involving vehicles, workplaces, and unsafe properties across New York. We have over 200 years of combined experience.
Our Fees and Case Process for Families
We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. You do not pay upfront legal fees, and our fee is based on the recovery obtained.
Our process generally includes investigation, evaluation of damages, presentation of a claim, and negotiation. If needed, we may proceed with litigation while continuing to pursue resolution.
Talk To Our Orangetown Wrongful Death Lawyer
You do not have to handle this alone. If your family lost a loved one in Orangetown due to another’s conduct, Shulman & Hill Injury Lawyers can review the facts, explain your options, and begin building your claim.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation and speak with our team today.