Wrongful Death Claims

Losing someone you love can leave you feeling hopeless, but that death becomes even worse when the individual died due to the fault of another person. Wrongful death cases can involve car accidents where one driver caused the deaths of multiple people, or cases that take place at work.

• If you can prove that another’s actions caused the death of your loved one, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Working with an attorney is the best way to make sure that you understand everything you need to know about these cases and to make sure that you have the right to file.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Case?

Though you may think that everyone connected to a deceased person has the right to file, this isn’t true. The court will look at the relationship between you and the person who passed away. You typically need to an immediate family member such as a child or the spouse of that person. As a stepparent responsible for raising that person’s children, you can file on the behalf of the kids. The court also allows distant family members and life partners to file. Anyone who suffered a financial loss as the result of that individual’s death can also file a wrongful death claim.

Examples of Wrongful Deaths

Wrongful deaths include car accidents caused by one or more drivers. A good example would be a driver who suddenly comes to a stop in the middle of the road that causes a pile up. These cases can involve drivers operating motor vehicles under the influences of different substances like alcohol and illegal drugs. Cases can be filed because of accidents that occurred at work or because of a slip and fall that left an individual in a coma. Even if your loved one was in an extended coma, you may still be able to file.

Wrongful Death Damages

When you file your lawsuit, your attorney will work with you to determine what you can ask for and how much you might get. The court will first want to know the value of that individual’s life in terms of earning potential. You’ll need to look at how much the person made each year, how long he or she would work and determine the exact amount lost due to that death. Many courts will let you add in the cost of medical bills and funeral costs. You may have the chance to seek punitive damages for emotional pain and suffering as well.

Use a Wrongful Death Attorney

Trying to file a lawsuit on your own without any legal help will only add to the frustration and sadness that you already feel after losing a loved one. Working with a wrongful death attorney lets you turn over some of the hard work to someone you can trust, and someone who cares about the outcome of your case. Call today to schedule a consultation and to learn more about the steps in filing a wrongful death lawsuit.