When a loved one passes away, it is possible for their family to seek some form of compensation under certain circumstances. For example, perhaps that loved one was involved in a catastrophic car accident caused by another driver. Their surviving loved ones should not be burdened by the financial losses caused by that other individual’s negligent, reckless or intentional actions.
What exactly should someone expect if they find themselves in this position? Every case is different, but there are generally a few types of damages that may be sought after most wrongful death cases.
Funeral and burial costs
Funerals themselves can cost thousands of dollars. A family that is suddenly surprised by the passing of a loved one may not have this money in reserve. They can be compensated by the party who caused that death.
Medical bills
The deceased may have incurred a significant amount of medical debt stemming from the injuries that led to their death that needs to be paid out of their estate. The family may seek compensation for these bills from the at-fault party.
Lost wages and future earnings
Lost wages refer to the money that a person would have earned if they had not been killed and would have been able to continue growing in their career as expected. Lost future earnings include the rest of the money that that person expected to make during their years in the workforce.
Pain and suffering
Those who have lost a loved one have had to endure significant pain and suffering because of the death in question. This can be a very traumatic experience and compensation for these challenges is sometimes paid out above things like medical bills and lost wages.
Seeking compensation
Those who have lost a loved one in a fatal accident know that financial compensation can never bring that beloved member of their family back. But it is also important to keep the family members of the deceased from being forced to absorb the costs that should be rightly shouldered by the party at-fault for their loss. Seeking legal guidance can help family members to secure rightful compensation as efficiently and effectively as possible.