The death of a loved one can take an emotional toll and cause financial hardships for the family members. It could be even more devastating if someone else’s negligence caused the death. However, in such a situation, there are legal remedies that can help the deceased’s, family members. Learn more about wrongful death claims and how you can obtain compensation.
What is a wrongful death claim?
If a person passes away due to the negligence or actions of someone else, then the deceased person’s estate can bring a civil action against the parties liable for the death. This is called a wrongful death claim. The specific laws regarding wrongful death claims differ from state to state, and these laws govern things such as who can file the claim and what damages can be recovered.
What damages can you recover in a wrongful death claim?
Compensation for various losses is possible, even though the laws vary from state to state. A skilled lawyer can help you receive different types of damages, such as:
- Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages are usually subjective, and it is hard to put a monetary value on them. Some non-economic damages are pain and suffering, loss of emotional support, loss of guidance, etc. Keep in mind that the family members who can receive compensation for non-economic damages differ from state to state.
- Economic damages
Economic damages are easier to put a monetary value on. However, depending on the case, the opinion of experts may be needed. Some examples of economic damages can be medical expenses, loss of financial support, loss of inheritance of the family members, funeral or burial expenses, etc.
- Punitive damages
Punitive damages are awarded to the person filing the claim, but their main purpose is to punish the person liable for their wrongdoings. Whether you can recover punitive damages from a wrongful death claim depends on your state’s laws. It is important to consult a lawyer to know exactly what laws apply to you and what damages you can recover so that you do not make any mistakes or lose out on the compensation you deserve.
Get a professional’s help today.
If your loved one has passed away due to someone else’s negligence, no money can help fill the void they have left behind. However, compensation from the liable parties can help you find closure and gain some financial help in troubling times. Schedule a consultation with an experienced wrongful death attorney today and get the legal help you deserve. Punitive damages are awarded to the person filing the claim, but their main purpose is to punish the person liable for their wrongdoings. Whether you can recover punitive damages from a wrongful death claim depends on your state’s laws. If a person passes away due to the negligence or actions of someone else, then the deceased person’s estate can bring a civil action against the parties liable for the death. This is called a wrongful death claim. The death of a loved one can take an emotional toll and cause financial hardships for the family members. It could be even more devastating if someone else’s negligence caused the death. However, in such a situation, there are legal remedies that can help the deceased’s, family members
