Coping with the death of a loved one is stressful. Dealing with loss can be especially difficult to accept when it results from a situation that could have been avoided. Wrongful death is death caused by the negligence, misconduct, or carelessness of another person or entity. Wrongful death actions can arise from medical malpractice, automobile accidents, intentional misconduct, product liability, premises liability and more. In most states, the surviving spouse, next of kin or personal representative brings a wrongful death action on behalf of the deceased. Among the 11,908 civil trials this past year, 452 included a wrongful death claim. Approximately 36% of these claims prevailed. Half of these prevailing claims resulted in an award to the plaintiff for at least $961,000.
Aside from the emotional trauma that comes from the loss of a loved one, there are also financial considerations. These financial considerations include both immediate expenses and future expenses. It is important for you and your family to know your future is financially stable. In order to provide a financially stable future, it is necessary to assess the different types of damages you may seek. Damages may include the following: pain and suffering, medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of future earnings, loss of benefits, loss of inheritance, loss of companionship, and possibly punitive damages. It is important to remember that each state places a limit on the time you have to bring a wrongful death action. Wrongful death actions typically have a shorter period than other claims. Thus, it is important to take action as soon as possible.
Due to the difficulties that accompany the loss of a loved one, InjuryBoard has assembled this Help Center to provide you with the most relevant and important information pertaining to wrongful death. If you have experienced the loss of a loved one that could have been avoided, you will benefit from this information by learning how to protect yourself and your family.
The information in this Help Center has been arranged into the following sections:
Each of the articles will provide you with expert analysis, key strategies, and bottom line advice to help you cope with the challenges and complexities surrounding the issue of wrongful death. By reading and putting this information into practice you will be ready for when the unexpected does occur or for dealing with an accident that has already occurred.