Wrongful Death After Motorcycle Accident on Highway 214 Near Silverton

Oregon Department of Transportation reported a wrongful death accident involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle on Highway 214 near Silverton, Oregon. A Toyota Corolla heading northbound on the highway, lost control and crossed into oncoming southbound traffic. The Corolla struck a motorcycle carrying two persons. Both the driver of the motorcycle and their passenger were taken to a hospital in Salem by Life Flight helicopter. The driver was pronounced dead at the hospital. The passenger of the motorcycle suffered serious injuries. The driver of the Corolla was uninjured in the crash. Traffic was closed in both directions for several hours while police investigated the fatal motorcycle accident.

Overview of a Wrongful Death Case

A wrongful death occurs when someone is killed due to another person’s negligence or misconduct. For example, when a drunk driver kills another driver, a wrongful death case may be filed by the surviving family members of the deceased. Keep in mind a criminal prosecution may be related to the fatality but a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action that is separate from any criminal charges. The standard of proof is lower in a civil case than it is in a criminal case.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Case?

A wrongful death lawsuit depends largely on the state in which the accident took place. Each state legislature has enacted wrongful death statutes that govern who can bring a wrongful death claim. In all states, spouses, children, and parents of unmarried children are able to file a wrongful death case. In some states, others such as putative spouses or financial dependents can also recover damages. In addition, some states allow siblings and grandparents to bring a claim. Contact the experienced wrongful death attorneys of Parke Gordon Law Firm to see if you have a good wrongful death case.

What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Case?

A lawsuit for wrongful death may recover both economic and noneconomic damages to be distributed to eligible family members or dependents.

Economic damages may include the following.

• Medical and funeral expenses
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Lost household
• Loss of support and income
• Lost prospect of inheritance

Noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering may also be recoverable. The award for damages will include interest starting from the date of death.

Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney Now

Contact a wrongful death attorney to find out if you are entitled under the statute to bring a claim and, if so, what types of damages you are entitled to recover.  The wrongful death attorneys at Parke Gordon Law Firm are experienced and trusted. We will fight to ensure you get a fair settlement. Call (971) 915-4878 now for a free consultation.