A wrongful death can occur in many ways, including while the victim is working, undergoing medical care, or driving down the street. Wrongful death is most commonly the result of automobile, motorcycle or trucking accidents, medical malpractice, dangerous working conditions such as those at construction sites, and exposure to harmful chemicals or toxins. If a loved one has been killed due to the negligent actions of another party, you may be entitled to monetary compensation.
A wrongful death lawsuit most often seeks to financially compensate a deceased person's relatives for their loss of a loved one. The courts and law makers have developed strict rules regarding who has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit and the rules differ from state to state. Generally, the person must have died as the result of another person's negligence, leaving behind surviving family members who are left with financial damages, such as the loss of future income, or loss of companionship. To determine whether you are entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit, it is important to consult an experienced attorney in the jurisdiction where the death occurred.
Wrongful Death Damages
The compensation awarded to people who sue for wrongful death generally is intended to compensate them for the financial losses associated with the death of the person. Income earned as a salary at work and money the deceased party would have earned during the remainder of his or her lifetime are commonly awarded as damages in wrongful death cases. In many jurisdictions, plaintiffs may also recover damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, medical, funeral, and burial expenses, as well as mental anguish.
Because the amount of compensation a person is entitled to in a wrongful death suit depends on the state and court jurisdiction where the death occurred and where the suit is filed, it is crucial to consult with experienced legal counsel to learn more about your legal rights. In Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania New York, a wrongful death attorney from Ahmad & Associates can help answer your questions.
Learn More about Wrongful Death Lawsuits
For more information about wrongful death lawsuits, including who may file suit, what must be proven in court to prevail, and what kinds of damages can be awarded, Contact Ahmad & Associates.
