Losing a loved one prematurely is one of the most devastating and long-ranging losses a family can suffer. The damages include loss of companionship and emotional stability, lost wages, future income, and general financial security, and any expenses incurred as a result.
No amount of money can ever fully compensate a family for such a loss, but it is important that you seek legal help immediately if your family member's death is the result of someone else's negligence. While no award will make your family whole, financial compensation can provide your family compensation to get back on your feet and start your new life.
Types of wrongful death claims
Wrongful death claims are often associated with personal injury cases such as:
- Medical malpractice
- Auto accidents
- Trailer truck accidents
- Boating, snowmobile, or ATV accidents
- Nursing home abuse or negligence
- Premises liability cases
- Workplace accidents
Calculating wrongful death damages
The process of calculating wrongful death damages can be a complicated process. Many factors must be taken into account in determining both direct monetary losses and less tangible losses such as loss of companionship.
There are two general types of damages you may seek in cases such as this: compensatory damages, which are intended to make the victim as “whole” as much as possible; and punitive damages, which are intended to penalize the responsible party rather than to compensate the victim.
Punitive damages are only awarded in cases of extreme negligence or malice on the part of those responsible.
Some of the types of compensatory damages you may seek include:
- Hospitalization and other medical expenses incurred
- Funeral expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future income
- Pain and suffering, on the part of the victim and his or her family
If you've lost someone you love as a result of someone else's negligence, we understand that it can be difficult to expend the effort required to file a successful lawsuit in your time of grief. However, it is important that you and your family receive all the compensation you deserve, to ensure your ongoing financial and emotional security, and to send a message that the type of negligence that caused the loss of your loved one will not go unnoticed.
Get the help your family needs today
To help you navigate the complicated legal process during this difficult time, our experienced personal injury attorneys and the rest of our staff will consult with you privately, and help you put together the information and evidence you need to file a successful claim.
Please call or email The Stanley Law Offices today to schedule a confidential, free personal consultation with us, and help get your family the help they need and deserve.
