Ohio's Wrongful Death Law
Under Ohio law, a wrongful death claim may be brought when a person dies as a result of another party's wrongful act, neglect, or default. These claims commonly arise from fatal car and truck crashes, medical negligence, workplace accidents, defective products, and nursing home neglect. In Ohio, the claim is brought by the personal representative of the deceased's estate, for the exclusive benefit of the surviving spouse, children, parents, and other next of kin.
Who Recovers and What
Ohio's wrongful death statute allows recovery for the losses suffered by surviving family members, including loss of financial support, loss of services, loss of the society and companionship of the deceased, and the mental anguish of the surviving family. A separate survival action may also allow recovery for the conscious pain and suffering the deceased endured before death, as well as their final medical and funeral expenses. These are distinct claims that an experienced attorney can pursue together.
The Importance of a Thorough Investigation
Establishing liability in a wrongful death case requires the same careful investigation as any serious injury claim, often more so given what is at stake. Evidence must be preserved, the cause of death clearly established, and every responsible party identified. Insurers and defendants frequently contest these claims vigorously, making skilled representation essential to securing the financial security a grieving family deserves.
Compassion and Advocacy
No family should have to fight an insurance company while grieving. Our network attorneys handle the legal burden so families can focus on healing, pursuing full accountability and fair compensation on their behalf. The goal is never to place a value on a life, but to secure the resources a family needs for the future and to hold wrongdoers responsible.
Injured in Ohio? Get a free, confidential case review today. There's no obligation, and you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
Frequently Asked Questions
The personal representative of the deceased's estate files the claim, but it is brought for the benefit of the surviving spouse, children, parents, and other next of kin.
Generally two years from the date of death, though related claims such as medical malpractice may carry different deadlines. Early legal advice is important.
Lost financial support and services, loss of companionship and guidance, the family's mental anguish, and, through a survival action, the deceased's pre-death pain and final expenses.