Wrongful Death Settlements in Pennsylvania

If you have been involved in a wrongful death in Pennsylvania, understanding how the state's personal injury laws affect your claim is essential. Pennsylvania follows the modified comparative fault (50% bar) system, and you have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.

Wrongful Death Settlement Range in Pennsylvania

Nationally, wrongful death settlements range from $100,000 to $5,000,000. In Pennsylvania, settlement values are influenced by the state's fault rules, damage caps, and local jury tendencies.

Low

$100,000

Estimated

$500,000

High

$5.0M

How Pennsylvania Law Affects Your Wrongful Death Claim

Pennsylvania uses a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar and has no statutory cap on non-economic or compensatory damages in personal injury cases. Philadelphia is one of the most plaintiff-friendly jurisdictions in the country, consistently producing large jury verdicts in catastrophic injury and medical malpractice cases. Pennsylvania's choice no-fault auto insurance system affects how car accident claims are handled.

Under Pennsylvania's modified comparative fault (50% bar) system, your settlement may be affected if you share any responsibility for the accident. Your recovery will be reduced by your fault percentage, and you are barred from recovery if your fault reaches 50% or more.

Factors Affecting Wrongful Death Claims in Pennsylvania

✓Decedent's age, income, and earning potential
✓Number and financial dependency of surviving beneficiaries
✓Circumstances and degree of negligence
✓Decedent's pain and suffering prior to death
✓Loss of consortium and companionship
✓Funeral and burial expenses
✓State wrongful death statute limitations

Common Wrongful Death Injuries

Fatal traumatic brain injuriesFatal spinal cord injuriesDeath from medical malpracticeFatal burns or smoke inhalationDeath from toxic substance exposureFatal internal injuriesDeath resulting from defective products

Relevant Pennsylvania Statutes

•42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5524 (statute of limitations)
•42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 7102 (modified comparative fault, 51% bar)
•3 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 459-502 (dog bite liability)

Wrongful Death Claims in Pennsylvania Cities

If your wrongful death occurred in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading, or anywhere else in Pennsylvania, the same state laws apply. Local court systems and jury pools can also influence settlement outcomes.

Calculate Your Claim →← Wrongful Death Pennsylvania Laws →

This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your state.