Losing a loved one is always devastating — but when that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, the pain is compounded by anger, confusion, and a need for justice. A wrongful death claim cannot replace the person you’ve lost, but it can hold the responsible parties accountable and help your family secure financial stability in the face of unimaginable loss.
At Moore Payne Law, Attorneys Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne understand the emotional toll these cases take. They provide compassionate guidance and powerful legal representation to families across Kentucky who are grieving and seeking accountability after a preventable death.
What Is Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another. In these cases, the law allows surviving family members to file a civil claim for compensation.
Common causes of wrongful death include:
- Car and trucking accidents caused by negligent or impaired drivers
- Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or misdiagnosis
- Workplace and construction accidents
- Defective products or dangerous drugs
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
- Premises liability accidents, like unsafe property conditions
These deaths are preventable — and holding those at fault accountable can help protect other families from suffering the same tragedy.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Kentucky?
Under Kentucky law, a personal representative of the deceased’s estate must file the wrongful death claim on behalf of the family. Once compensation is awarded, the proceeds are distributed to the surviving relatives according to state statutes.
Eligible beneficiaries may include:
- The spouse of the deceased
- Children or dependents
- Parents, if there is no spouse or child
- In some cases, other heirs named in the estate
Moore Payne Law helps families navigate this process and ensures that every eligible loved one receives the justice and compensation they deserve.
What Must Be Proven in a Wrongful Death Case
To succeed in a wrongful death claim, the plaintiff must prove that:
- 1.
- A duty of care existed — the defendant had a legal obligation to act reasonably to prevent harm.
- 2.
- That duty was breached — the defendant’s careless or reckless behavior violated that duty.
- 3.
- The breach caused the death — a direct connection between the negligence and the fatal outcome.
- 4.
- Damages resulted — such as medical bills, funeral costs, and emotional suffering.
Moore Payne Law investigates every case with precision and empathy, gathering the evidence needed to show exactly how and why the tragedy occurred.
Common Examples of Wrongful Death Cases
Auto and Trucking Accidents
When reckless driving, speeding, or drunk driving leads to a fatal collision, families can pursue claims against both the driver and, in some cases, their employer or insurer.
Medical Malpractice
Fatal mistakes in hospitals, from medication errors to delayed diagnoses, are among the most heartbreaking forms of negligence. Moore Payne Law holds healthcare providers accountable for these preventable deaths.
Workplace Accidents
In construction or industrial settings, employers and third parties may be liable for fatal injuries caused by unsafe conditions or defective equipment.
Defective Products
Manufacturers can be held responsible when dangerous products — from car parts to pharmaceuticals — cause deadly accidents or reactions.
Nursing Home Neglect
When a vulnerable elder loses their life because of abuse, neglect, or lack of medical attention, facilities must be held accountable.
Each wrongful death case is different, but every family deserves answers, closure, and justice.
Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Cases
No amount of money can replace a loved one, but compensation can help relieve the financial burden that follows an unexpected loss.
Families may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses related to the fatal injury or illness
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of income and financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members
- Punitive damages, in cases of egregious or intentional misconduct
Moore Payne Law carefully evaluates each case to pursue the maximum recovery possible under Kentucky law.
How Moore Payne Law Helps Families
Attorneys Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne approach every wrongful death case with two goals: to bring justice and accountability, and to provide compassionate support to grieving families.
Their process includes:
- 1.
- Detailed Investigation: Gathering police reports, medical records, and expert opinions.
- 2.
- Liability Identification: Determining all responsible parties — from individuals to corporations.
- 3.
- Economic Analysis: Calculating lost income, benefits, and future financial impact.
- 4.
- Negotiation and Litigation: Handling all discussions with insurers and taking cases to trial if necessary.
- 5.
- Personal Guidance: Supporting families through every legal and emotional step.
Their combination of legal skill and genuine empathy helps families feel heard, respected, and represented at every stage.
The Statute of Limitations in Kentucky Wrongful Death Claims
In Kentucky, wrongful death claims generally must be filed within one year of the appointment of the estate’s personal representative. However, the timeline may vary depending on the facts of the case.
Because deadlines are strict, it’s important to contact Moore Payne Law as soon as possible. The firm’s attorneys can immediately begin investigating and preserving vital evidence.
Why Experience Matters
Wrongful death cases often involve complex investigations and large insurance companies. These corporations frequently attempt to delay, deny, or minimize valid claims.
With extensive experience in serious injury and medical malpractice cases, Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne have the skills and determination to fight back. They prepare every case as if it will go before a jury — a strategy that consistently results in better settlements and verdicts.
Families can rely on Moore Payne Law for honest communication, dedicated advocacy, and a deep understanding of both the law and the human cost of loss.
What Families Should Do After a Wrongful Death
- 1.
- Obtain a death certificate and any available medical or police reports.
- 2.
- Keep records of medical bills, funeral expenses, and related costs.
- 3.
- Avoid early settlements or statements to insurance representatives.
- 4.
- Contact Moore Payne Law for a free consultation and case evaluation.
Their team will handle the legal complexities so your family can focus on grieving and healing.
Honoring Loved Ones Through Justice
At Moore Payne Law, every wrongful death case represents a life that mattered — a parent, child, spouse, or friend taken too soon. Attorneys Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne are honored to stand beside Kentucky families as they pursue justice for those they’ve lost.
Their commitment is not only to win cases, but to honor legacies, restore accountability, and create safer communities for the future.
If your family has lost a loved one due to negligence or misconduct, contact Moore Payne Law today for a free, confidential consultation. Let their team help you find the justice and closure your loved one deserves.
![[object Object]](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fbadge-4.8c37bbef.png&w=256&q=75)
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/best-lawyers.d967c813.svg)
![[object Object]](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fbadge-6.dc6a7289.png&w=256&q=75)
![[object Object]](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fbadge-7.6d0093c7.png&w=1200&q=75)
![[object Object]](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fattorney-badge-number-one.4364b1cd.png&w=3840&q=75){kind=icon}
