Losing a loved one is the hardest thing anyone can go through. When that loss is caused by someone else's negligence, the law provides a path to justice, though no amount of money can replace a life.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
It is essentially a personal injury claim that the deceased person could have filed had they lived. Since they cannot, the family files it on their behalf to recover the 'value' of that life.
Types of Damages
Families can recover:
- Economic Losses: The wages and benefits the deceased would have earned over their lifetime.
- Expenses: Medical bills incurred before death and funeral costs.
- Loss of Consortium: The loss of love, guidance, and companionship (especially for children/spouses).
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme recklessness (like drunk driving), meant to punish the wrongdoer.
