The death of a loved one is never easy to deal with especially when it was the result of someone else's wrongdoing or negligence. The surviving family members of a wrongful death have the right to damages including funeral expenses, which often times are very costly.

Funeral expenses are often the first issue that grieving family members are confronted with after a wrongful death. Funeral arrangements must be made quickly and sometimes financial distress make the situation even harder. Traditional funerals typically cost over $6,000, not including the cost of flowers, obituary notices, travel expenses, etc. Most funeral expenses go to:

• Cash advances
• Funeral goods such as caskets and earns
• Services fee for the funeral director and staff
• Charges for other services and merchandise

Because funeral arrangements are always made under emotional distress, a funeral rule exists to give you guidance through this process. While most funeral providers are honest and legitimate businesses, some try to take advantage of your unfortunate situation. The funeral rule states that:

• You have the right to choose funeral goods and services of your choice
• The funeral provider must state your rights in writing on the price list of funeral goods and services
• Funeral providers that offer cremations must have alternative containers available
• Required items must be disclosed on the price list with reference to the specific Pennsylvania and/or federal law
• A funeral provider cannot refuse or charge to handle a casket you bought elsewhere

If a loved one died due to a Pennsylvania wrongful death, please fill out the form on your left for a free case review by a Pennsylvania wrongful death lawyer.