Wrongful Death Lawyer
In a wrongful death claim, damages are sought to compensate the surviving family members for the losses they have suffered as a result of their loved one’s untimely death. While the specific types and amounts of damages can vary depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the case, here are some common types of damages that can be sought in a wrongful death claim:
- Economic damages: Economic damages aim to compensate for the financial losses incurred due to the death of the loved one. They typically include:
a. Loss of financial support: This encompasses the loss of the deceased’s income and financial contributions, including potential future earnings and benefits.
b. Funeral and burial expenses: These costs can be significant, and compensation may cover funeral services, burial or cremation expenses, and related costs.
c. Medical expenses: If the deceased incurred medical expenses before passing away, compensation may cover those costs, including hospital bills, treatment expenses, and medication.
d. Loss of benefits: This includes the loss of healthcare coverage, pension plans, retirement benefits, or other employer-provided benefits that were enjoyed before the death. - Non-economic damages: A lawyer, like a wrongful death lawyer from a law office such as Ted A. Greve & Associates, knows that non-economic damages aim to compensate for the emotional and intangible losses suffered by the surviving family members. They often include:
a. Pain and suffering: This type of damages compensates for the mental anguish, emotional distress, and suffering experienced by the surviving family members due to the loss of their loved one.
b. Loss of companionship or consortium: This refers to the loss of the deceased’s love, care, guidance, companionship, and support. It accounts for the emotional and relational impact on the surviving spouse, children, or other close family members.
c. Loss of parental guidance: If the deceased was a parent, damages may be sought to compensate for the loss of their guidance, nurturing, and parental support that would have been provided to their children.
d. Loss of household services: This includes the value of the deceased’s contributions to the household, such as chores, childcare, maintenance, and other services they would have provided. - Punitive damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded in addition to economic and non-economic damages. These damages aim to punish the party responsible for the wrongful death due to particularly reckless, intentional, or malicious conduct. They serve as a deterrent and aim to prevent similar actions in the future.
It’s important to note that the availability and calculation of damages may vary based on the specific laws and regulations in each jurisdiction. Additionally, the relationship of the claimant to the deceased, such as a spouse, child, or parent, can also influence the types and amounts of damages that can be sought.
To ensure an accurate assessment and pursuit of damages in a wrongful death claim, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced lawyer specializing in wrongful death cases. They will evaluate the specific circumstances of the case, calculate the appropriate damages, and advocate for the rights of the surviving family members to seek fair compensation for their losses. For help from a compassionate lawyer, reach out to your local law office to see what they can do for you.