When a loved one passes due to someone else’s negligence, you are likely overwhelmed with feelings of uncertainty, stress, grief, and anger. Understandably, a wrongful death can make a family feel completely helpless. Our attorneys are here to help you navigate these waters and help you through this time. Consider frequently asked questions about a wrongful death lawsuit:
What constitutes as wrongful death?
At its core, wrongful death occurs when a person fails to provide a standard of care or acts out of negligence causing one’s death. For example, medical malpractice often leads to wrongful death lawsuits because a doctor must treat patients with a high standard of care. If he does not, serious injuries or death may occur.
Who can sue for wrongful death?
In most wrongful death cases, a family member sues on behalf of the deceased. If someone outside of the immediate family wants to sue, state laws must be addressed. Your wrongful death attorneys will know exactly what route to take with your wrongful death case based on your relationship to the victim.
What must be proven in order to obtain compensation?
It must be proven that the offender acted out of negligence to cause the wrongful death. Beyond proving negligence, it must be shown that the offender had a direct duty of care to the victim (i.e. surgeon and patient) and the offender breached that duty.
What damages are awarded for a wrongful death?
The damages that are awarded range depending on many factors. Your wrongful death attorneys will know exactly what route to take to gain compensation to ease your financial burden. Here are several of many damages that may be awarded:
- Emotional loss
- Expected income
- Funeral & burial costs
- Inheritance
- Medical bills
- Pain & suffering
If you’ve lost a loved one due to wrongful death, we want to help you during this excruciating time. Contact us today for legal guidance.