We Help People Seek Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries
Last updated on March 5, 2025
After an accident, victims often wonder how they can pay bills during their recovery, how they can secure compensation for their injuries and what they need to do to start a compensation claim. If you are asking these questions after your own accident, turn to the guidance you need from an experienced and compassionate Pennsylvania-based law firm.
At Phillips Froetschel, LLC, attorneys Laura Phillips and Joseph Froetschel know how life-changing a catastrophic injury can be, and they know how to seek fair compensation for what you experienced. Laura Phillips and Joseph Froetschel have considerable experience in a vast array of personal injury and medical malpractice cases. They are ready to put more than 40 years of combined personal injury claim experience and their award-winning legal counsel to work for you. You can schedule your initial consultation with them by calling 412-643-0682 or emailing them here.
Have You Experienced A Life-Altering Injury?
In motor vehicle collisions, construction site injuries, defects involving heavy machinery, chemical exposures and other accidents, the consequences can last a lifetime, while the initial compensation may only last a few months or years. We can help you seek compensation for yourself or your loved one that reflects the consequences of catastrophic injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Loss of limb
- Paralysis
- Death
When these or other injuries are the result of someone else’s reckless or negligent actions, we are here to help you earn the settlement you need to make ends meet now and in the future.
The Guidance You Need for Your Claim
Not everyone has the legal standing to file a claim after a tragic accident. Our attorneys can offer their proficiency in advising who is eligible to file a lawsuit or claim on behalf of a deceased or permanently injured person.
In a personal injury claim, the plaintiff can seek compensation for the costs of their injuries, including lost income, medical expenses, loss of earning potential, relocating or renovating to accommodate a disability, scarring, disfigurement, psychological injuries, and pain and suffering.
In a wrongful death claim, fair compensation includes the lost future income of the decedent, as well as retirement contributions, health coverage, loss of consortium and more.
When Phillips Froetschel, LLC, takes a client’s case, our team does everything in our power to maximize the compensation they receive. From gathering evidence like medical documents and witness testimony to consulting with adept witnesses, no effort is out of the question for our clients.
What The Injured And Their Loved Ones Should Know
There is a lot that victims and their families should know about catastrophic accidents, and we want to provide you with this vital information as soon as possible.
You Can See Your Own Doctor
After a catastrophic injury, it is important to continue seeing your own trusted medical professionals. When you have built a relationship with your primary doctor, they will be able to recognize the total consequences of your accident best, moreover, their medical records before and after the accident can help attest to the full damage of your injuries.
Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, expenses, related police reports and any changes in your condition. These and other relevant documents can be essential in building your compensation claim and establishing the full extent of the consequences of your accident.
Seek Legal Advice Early
Contacting an attorney as soon as possible can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. The sooner you reach out to our Pittsburgh office for the personal injury representation you need, the sooner we can take the legal obligation of your claim onto ourselves and let you focus on your healing process. Our guidance can also help you avoid costly mistakes like accepting a lowball compensation offer.
Compensation For Caretakers
Your compensation claim may also be able to provide money for the caretakers of your accident. If your injuries have caused your loved ones to experience lost wages, renovation or relocation costs, or other expenses related to caring for you, we can fight for a settlement that reflects those costs.
Mental Health Support
Catastrophic injuries often have significant psychological impacts, which are often overlooked after treating the physical injuries from your accident. Additionally, caregivers can also experience mental anguish after seeing their loved one in so much pain. When therapy or counseling is necessary to manage the anxiety, depression, stress and other mental damage from your accident, your claim should cover those expenses as well.
FAQ: Pittsburgh Wrongful Death And Catastrophic Injuries
Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address common questions regarding wrongful death and catastrophic injuries in Pennsylvania.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate typically files a wrongful death claim on behalf of the beneficiaries. This individual is usually named in the deceased’s will or appointed by the court.
If the personal representative does not file within six months of the death, any beneficiary, such as a spouse, child or parent of the deceased, can file the claim. This ensures that the rights of family members are protected and that justice can be sought on behalf of the deceased.
Can I file for a wrongful death claim if we had a personal injury settlement?
Yes, you can still file a wrongful death claim even if there was a prior personal injury settlement. The wrongful death claim compensates beneficiaries for their losses, separate from the personal injury settlement the deceased may have received.
Does a wrongful death settlement also cover medical bills?
Yes, a wrongful death settlement can cover medical bills incurred before the deceased’s death. Additionally, it may include compensation for funeral and burial expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering endured by the deceased before passing.
Will my loved one need an autopsy?
An autopsy may be necessary to establish the cause of death in some wrongful death cases. This is particularly important if the death’s circumstances are unclear or if required to provide evidence for the claim.
Additionally, an autopsy can offer vital information that helps ensure the accuracy and strength of the case, potentially leading to a more favorable outcome for the bereaved family.
How long does a wrongful death case take?
The duration of a wrongful death case varies depending on its complexity and whether it goes to trial. It can take anywhere from several months to a few years to resolve, with factors such as investigation, discovery and negotiations affecting the timeline.
We serve clients throughout Pittsburgh and the broader Allegheny County and are committed to providing compassionate, experienced legal representation. Whether you need assistance within the city limits or in surrounding areas, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.