The wrongful death of a family member can have a severe impact on your well-being. Whether you relied on this individual emotionally or financially, the loss you sustain could upend your life.
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit might be the only way to petition for compensation. With the right approach, you may be able to collect more than one type of damage.
Types of economic damages
Prior to learning about the types of damage you might be able to get, it is important that you understand the definition of wrongful death. According to Cornell Law School, you or family members can file a lawsuit on behalf of a deceased relative whose death happened as the result of someone’s negligence.
Following the death, you might face numerous financial burdens including costs associated with loss of income, funeral expenses and the medical bills resulting from life-saving treatment. Despite the death of your loved one, you may still have the responsibility of satisfying these obligations.
Types of non-economic damages
You may also be able to collect non-economic damages for things like loss of companionship and psychological trauma. The mental burden of losing someone you cared so deeply about may trigger illnesses such as PTSD, anxiety and depression. You may need therapy and other supportive treatments to help you cope with the trauma you experienced, and these will cost money as well.
You deserve support, especially if negligence caused your family member’s death. The damages awarded in a wrongful death case will vary depending on your situation, but with the right support, you may have a chance at recouping some of the loss.
