No two wrongful death claims are the same. Because of varying factors, calculations have to be performed to determine how much the claim might be worth. Your attorney can use the gathered documentation to calculate those damages.
Calculating Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
Under D.C. Code § 16-2701, the executor of the estate of an individual who died due to someone else’s negligence is eligible to file a claim for wrongful death. This includes negligence in areas such as motor vehicle collisions, medical malpractice cases and intentional acts. If the individual died without a will or without naming an individual to handle their affairs, the court can appoint someone.
Call Roeser Law to Help With Your Wrongful Death Case
The rights of our clients are important to Roeser Law. Our duty is to provide compassion and help our clients obtain the compensation they deserve. Call us at (202) 660-4070 to discover how we can assist you.
How a Wrongful Death Claim Is Filed in Washington, D.C.
Damages in a wrongful death case in Washington, D.C. are based on financial loss by the immediate family members. Although Washington, D.C. has no limit on the amount that can be awarded, unlike many other states, the family cannot claim damages for their grief or mental distress. At the same time the wrongful death claim is filed, a survival action may also be included, which covers medical expenses incurred before the individual’s death.
How Compensation Is Calculated in a Wrongful Death Case
Education, job salary and age are considered when calculating a wrongful death claim. An economic expert is often used to make those calculations. Obviously, if someone is unmarried and older in age, the return will be much less than another individual who has a spouse and children and who has a job that is expected to go up in salary through the years. This will not only affect lost wages in the case but also the amount awarded for loss of companionship.
Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
No two wrongful death claims are the same. Because of varying factors, calculations have to be performed to determine how much the claim might be worth. Your attorney can use the gathered documentation to calculate those damages. However, in wrongful death claims in Washington, D.C., the following may be recovered:
- The cost of the funeral and burial
- Medical expenses before the decedent expired if a survival action is filed
- Wages and benefits lost by the deceased person can be recovered until their retirement age
- Loss of consortium
Roeser Law Firm – Help in Your Time of Need
When a loved one dies because of the negligence of another individual or entity, the family may be able to recover compensation by filing a wrongful death claim. An experienced attorney is essential to protecting your rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
The Roeser Law Firm is here for you when you have lost a loved one and want to find out about filing a wrongful death claim. Contact us at (202) 660-4070 or online for a free consultation. We can explain the process and what is involved as well as handle your case and take the burden from your shoulders.
