In mid-June, the family of a Duke Energy worker who lost his life while on the job was awarded more than $27 million in a wrongful death lawsuit.
In this issue, we’ll talk about the case, and share information about wrongful death lawsuits in Alaska.
The 43-year-old victim worked as a lineman and trainer for Duke Energy. While on the job, he was trapped by a utility pole he was climbing and died from his injuries.
During the wrongful death trial. the lawyer representing the victim’s family successfully proved that a subcontractor, Utilimap, was hired by Duke to inspect 30,000 utility poles. They, however, did not inspect the pole involved in the incident.
While each state has its own guidelines about wrongful death lawsuits, here in Alaska, such action must be taken within 2 years of when the death occurred.
While a wrongful death lawsuit must be brought forth by a personal representative of the victim’s estate, the awarded damages can be presented to individual survivors of the victim and their estate as a whole.
A host of variables are calculated in the determination of the size of the compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit.
These variables include, but are not limited to:
Because no 2 cases are alike, an experienced lawyer will be able to provide you with a reasonable estimate of what is fair compensation.
Losing a loved one is a devastating event – perhaps even more if the loss is caused someone else’s negligence.
Remember, only an experienced wrongful death lawyer will be able to tell if you’re being offered a fair settlement or is qualified enough take on your case and fight diligently for the verdict you deserve.
If you feel that your family has been a victim of a wrongful death, get in touch with us here at Barber & Associates, LLC. We’re one of Alaska’s leading wrongful death firms, and have a strong reputation for representing the families of victims of all types of fatal accidents.
Our number is 907-276-5858 or you can reach us via email.