How Does a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Help Family Members?
Wrongful death damages cannot replace the life of a deceased family member. Still, a successful wrongful death claim can provide financial security for surviving family members and justice for the deceased. If you have lost a family member due to another person’s negligence or wrongful act, contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer today to discuss your case.
What Is a Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death is a negligent or wrongful act of another person, entity or organization. This could include medical malpractice by a healthcare provider, an automobile accident caused by another driver’s negligence, defective products resulting in fatal injuries or even murder.
In most cases, a family member of the deceased can bring a lawsuit against the responsible party seeking monetary damages for their loss. A successful lawsuit can provide financial compensation to help cover funeral expenses and other costs associated with the deceased’s passing.
It may also award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. An injury lawyer can help you understand the legal process, protect your rights and seek closure for family members.
What Is the Purpose of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
The purpose of this lawsuit is to hold the wrongdoer accountable for their actions and provide financial compensation to the family of the deceased. For a successful claim to be made, it must be proven that the responsible party was negligent in some way and that this negligence resulted in death. Additionally, at least one spouse, child, parent or other blood relative must suffer economic damages due to the passing of their loved one.
To learn more about what qualifies as wrongful death and how it is different from other types of legal claims, speak with a qualified attorney. They can answer your questions and help you understand your rights.
Compensation for a Wrongful Death Claim
If a successful claim is made, the deceased’s family may be awarded various types of damages. These can include economic damages to cover funeral expenses and medical bills in some cases. Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering might be awarded. Punitive damages may also be awarded. Punitive damages can be used to punish the responsible party for their negligent or wrongful act and serve as a deterrent against similar future offenses. Spouses can file a claim for loss of companionship.
Pain and Suffering in a Survival Action
If the decedent lives for a time before death after an accident and experiences conscious pain and suffering, his or her descendants can file a survival action in their name. This is called a survival action because it survives the person’s demise and is essentially a personal injury claim. Usually, a wrongful death claim and a survival action are filed simultaneously.
Roeser Law Firm
If a loved one dies due to the negligence or intentional act of another person or entity, a wrongful death lawsuit or survival action can be filed. The legal team at Roeser Law Firm is here to help you during this difficult time. Receive compassionate legal advice by calling (202) 660-4070, or reach out to us online. We can schedule a free case review.
