Losing a family member to someone else's negligence is a pain no one should have to bear. While no legal action can bring them back, a wrongful death claim can provide accountability and the financial stability your family needs. Injury Claim Team connects grieving Oregon families with compassionate, experienced attorneys who handle these sensitive cases with the dignity they deserve.
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What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies because of another party's negligence or wrongful act — a fatal car or truck crash, medical malpractice, a workplace accident, or a defective product. Under Oregon law, the claim is brought by the personal representative of the deceased's estate on behalf of the surviving family members who suffered loss.
Who Can Recover in Oregon
Oregon's wrongful death statute allows recovery for the deceased's spouse, children, parents, and other eligible family members. The personal representative pursues the claim, and any recovery is distributed among the beneficiaries. An attorney helps the family navigate the legal process — including establishing the estate and identifying all who are entitled to recover.
Damages in Wrongful Death Cases
Oregon law allows recovery for the deceased's medical and funeral expenses, the loss of the income and services they would have provided, and the loss of their care, companionship, and society. The surviving family's grief and loss are central to these claims. Oregon follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. You can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found 51% or more responsible, you recover nothing. Valuing a life's contributions requires sensitivity and experience.
The Statute of Limitations
Oregon generally requires wrongful death claims to be filed within three years of the injury that caused the death, though the specific deadline can depend on the underlying cause. Because gathering evidence and establishing the estate take time, contacting an attorney early protects the family's rights without adding to the burden of grief.
No fee unless we win. Our network attorneys handle Oregon wrongful death cases on a contingency basis. The case review is always free, and you pay nothing unless they recover compensation for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The personal representative of the deceased's estate files on behalf of eligible surviving family members, including the spouse, children, and parents.
Medical and funeral costs, lost income and services, and the family's loss of care, companionship, and society.
Generally three years from the injury that caused the death, though the deadline can vary by cause. Acting early is best.
Nothing upfront. Our network attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless they recover compensation for your family.
Talk to an Oregon Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured, don't navigate the insurance companies alone. Injury Claim Team connects you with an experienced Oregon attorney for free. Call 973-566-5599 or request your review online — a specialist will reach out within the hour.