There may be a case for a wrongful death lawsuit following the death of a loved one due to another person’s negligence or recklessness. In these lawsuits, family members have a right to pursue compensation to help recover loss after a death.
Damages After A Wrongful Death
There are different damages a family may experience, including pecuniary losses and punitive damages.
Pecuniary loss includes expected losses due to the decedents inability to continue working and earning. They also include loss based on the decedent’s age, health, and other factors.
Punitive damages include compensation as a form of punishment to the defendant. For example, if a person murders someone, the deceased’s family may choose to file a wrongful death case. Punitive damages may be awarded, penalizing the defendant for murdering a person and awarding compensation to the surviving family.
It can sometimes be hard to determine when to file a wrongful death case. With help, you can go review your situation and discuss what happened to determine if you have the evidence needed to be successful in court. Wrongful deaths happen all the time from car accidents, medical malpractice, murders, and other incidents.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: FindLaw, “Wrongful Death Overview” | Photo
