Resources for Victims and Families of Accidents in Delaware

When you or someone you love is involved in a serious accident in Delaware, it can turn life upside down. Whether it’s a traffic crash on Route 1, a workplace incident, or a slip-and-fall in a public space, the aftermath can be painful, confusing, and expensive.

This guide provides essential Delaware accident victim resources for individuals recovering from injuries and families dealing with the loss of a loved one. From medical care and emotional support to legal guidance and police report access, you’ll find what you need to take the next step forward.

Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Delaware

Delaware roads and workplaces see hundreds of injury-causing accidents every year. Many victims experience long recovery times, hospital bills, and pressure from insurance companies to settle quickly. Knowing your rights and resources can help you protect yourself.

Medical and Rehabilitation Services

Immediate and ongoing care is critical after an accident. Delaware residents can access high-quality medical care and rehabilitation from:

• Christiana Hospital (Newark) – Delaware’s only Level I trauma center
• Bayhealth Medical Center (Dover and Milford) – Emergency and rehab services
• Nemours Children’s Health (Wilmington) – Pediatric trauma and recovery care
• Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS) – Offers help for individuals with long-term disabilities

For those recovering from brain injuries or spinal trauma, Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore provides therapy and support programs.

Legal Rights After an Injury Accident

Delaware follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. If you are found to be partially responsible, your compensation will be reduced accordingly.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Delaware is two years from the date of the accident.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Delaware

If a loved one is killed in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the loss is overwhelming. While no amount of money can replace what you’ve lost, certain legal and emotional support resources can ease the burden.

Grief Counseling and Support Services

Delaware families have access to free or low-cost grief support through:

• Delaware Hospice – New Hope Program – Offers grief counseling for children, teens, and families
• Compassionate Friends – Delaware Chapters – Peer support for families grieving the loss of a child or sibling
• Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care (New Castle) – Offers adult bereavement services
• Crisis Services – 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – 24/7 emotional support across the state

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Delaware

Under Delaware Code Title 10, § 3724, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by the surviving spouse, children, parents, or siblings of the deceased. A successful claim may provide compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical expenses prior to death
• Loss of financial support and benefits
• Loss of care, comfort, and companionship

The deadline to file a wrongful death claim in Delaware is two years from the date of death.

How to Access Police and Accident Reports in Delaware

Police reports contain essential details about the incident, including diagrams, witness statements, and officer conclusions. These documents are often required for insurance claims and legal cases.

How to Request a Delaware Accident Report

You can request your crash report through the responding agency:

• Delaware State Police: Visit https://dsp.delaware.gov and click on “Reports and Forms”
• Local Police Departments: Contact the police department that handled your case
• In Person or by Mail: Request forms are available on each agency’s website

To process your request, you’ll typically need:

• The accident date and location
• Names of people involved
• Case or report number (if available)
• A small fee (usually around $25)

Reports are usually available 7 to 14 business days after the crash.

Social Services and Financial Help for Delaware Victims

Accidents can leave families struggling financially, especially if someone is out of work or facing large medical bills. Delaware provides several programs that offer temporary or long-term support.

Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS)

DHSS oversees multiple programs to help with recovery and daily needs:

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Cash assistance for low-income families
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Grocery assistance
• Delaware Medicaid – Free or reduced-cost medical care
• State Service Centers – Help with applying for benefits, housing referrals, and more

Start your application at https://www.dhss.delaware.gov

Delaware Violent Crimes Compensation Program (VCC)

If the accident involved a criminal act (such as DUI, hit-and-run, or assault), you may qualify for financial help from the VCC, which covers:

• Funeral expenses
• Counseling services
• Medical bills
• Loss of earnings

Apply at https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov or call (302) 577-8500.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Delaware

Victims and families often have urgent questions after an accident. Here are a few of the most common:

What is the time limit to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim in Delaware?

You have two years from the date of injury or death to file most legal claims. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.

What happens if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Under Delaware law, you can still recover compensation if you are 50% or less at fault. However, your settlement will be reduced in proportion to your share of responsibility.

Do I need a police report to file an insurance claim?

In most cases, yes. Insurance companies often require an official report before processing your claim. It also helps protect your legal rights.

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Delaware?

Spouses, children, parents, or siblings of the deceased may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The damages are distributed according to Delaware inheritance laws.

Should I hire a lawyer even if the accident seems straightforward?

Yes. Serious accidents often involve complicated insurance negotiations or legal issues. A lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected and that you get the full compensation you deserve.

Call a Delaware Accident Attorney Today

Accidents don’t just hurt bodies—they disrupt lives. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a Delaware accident, help is available. You don’t have to navigate this difficult process alone.

A Delaware accident attorney can help you:

• Request official crash reports
• Handle insurance negotiations
• File legal claims on time
• Seek full compensation for your losses

Don’t wait until the deadline is near or insurers begin to push back. Call a Delaware accident lawyer today to get the support you need and take control of your recovery.