No one tells you how much harder it gets once you start looking into legal action after losing a loved one. The grief is already overwhelming — but suddenly, you’re being asked for paperwork, deadlines, and decisions you never thought you’d have to make.
And in the middle of it all, it’s easy to make mistakes. Not because you’re careless — but because this system wasn’t built with grieving families in mind. That’s why it helps to know what pitfalls to avoid before you begin.
If your family is considering filing a wrongful death claim in Washington, here’s what you need to watch out for — and how to protect your case from the start.
1. Waiting Too Long to Start the Process
It’s natural to want to focus on your loss before thinking about anything legal. But the clock starts ticking right away. In Washington, you usually have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit — and crucial evidence can disappear long before that.
Starting early doesn’t mean rushing. It just means putting someone in your corner who can handle the legal details while you focus on your family. The sooner a lawyer can begin collecting records, witness statements, and reports, the stronger your case will be.
2. Trusting the Insurance Company to Be Fair
Insurance companies often sound caring at first — they’ll call to “check in,” offer condolences, or say they just want to help you move forward. But their main goal is to close the case as cheaply and quickly as possible.
We’ve seen too many families accept low settlement offers that didn’t come close to covering their long-term losses. Before signing anything, talk to an attorney who represents you, not the insurer. A quick offer might seem like relief now, but it can leave you struggling later.
3. Filing Without Knowing Who Has the Right to File
Washington law only allows certain people to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Usually, that’s a surviving spouse, domestic partner, or child. If none exist, parents or siblings may qualify.
This might sound simple, but it can get complicated fast — especially when families are large or relationships are strained. Filing incorrectly, or leaving someone out, can delay the case or even jeopardize it. A wrongful death attorney in Olympia can help make sure your claim is filed properly and includes everyone entitled to recovery.
4. Not Accounting for the Full Extent of Your Loss
When people think of compensation, they often focus on the obvious: medical bills, funeral costs, maybe lost income. But a wrongful death lawsuit in Washington can include much more.
Families can often recover for:
- Lost future income or benefits
- The emotional loss of companionship, guidance, and support
- The pain and suffering their loved one experienced before passing (in certain cases)
It’s easy to underestimate the financial and emotional impact of losing someone — especially when you’re just trying to get through the day. A good attorney will help you see the full picture before agreeing to any settlement.
5. Talking About the Case Too Publicly
It’s normal to want to share memories or vent frustration online. But once a claim is filed, social media can work against you. Posts can be taken out of context or used to suggest things that hurt your credibility.
To stay safe, keep the case private — and ask friends and family to do the same. It’s a small step that can make a big difference later on.
6. Hiring a Lawyer Without the Right Experience
Not all lawyers handle wrongful death cases — and not all have experience with serious, high-stakes claims. These cases often involve complex laws, multiple parties, and large insurance companies.
At Ron Meyers and Associates, we focus on helping families through catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims. We understand the emotional toll these cases take, and we know how to navigate the legal process so you don’t have to.
You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone
No one is ever ready to lose a loved one — especially because of someone else’s carelessness. The legal system can feel cold and confusing, but you don’t have to face it without help.
Our role is to make sure you’re treated fairly, that every piece of evidence is preserved, and that your family receives the full compensation the law allows. Most importantly, we’ll handle the hard parts so you can focus on what really matters: healing and remembering the person you’ve lost.
Contact Ron Meyers and Associates for a free consultation.
FAQ: Avoiding Mistakes in Washington Wrongful Death Claims
How soon should I reach out to a lawyer after a wrongful death?
As soon as you’re emotionally ready. There’s a time limit in Washington, and starting early helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Can more than one family member be involved in the case?
Yes. Usually, one person represents the estate, but others may still share in the recovery. An attorney can help organize this fairly and smoothly.
What if I don’t know all the details about how my loved one died?
That’s okay. You can still meet with a lawyer early. They can help investigate, gather records, and work with experts to uncover what happened.
Do I have to pay anything upfront to start a case?
No. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t owe us anything unless we win compensation for your family.
