Wrongful death claims are a type of personal injury claim that protects surviving family members of a victim wrongfully killed in a car accident or other types of traumatic accident. A wrongful death legal action can be brought on behalf of the lost loved one’s estate for the benefits of surviving family members and damages and legal remedies may be available.
A wrongful death claim for damages is brought against a negligent driver or other negligent party responsible for the wrongful death or killing of the victim. The negligent party at fault may be liable to compensate surviving family members for wrongful death damages that can include medical expenses; funeral expenses; loss of support and services; loss of companionship and consortium; lost prospect of inheritance and other damages as well.
Wrongful death damages are based on the circumstances and characteristics of the victim so that they can help surviving family members with the unique circumstances they face after the unexpected and wrongful loss of their loved one that they have suffered. Wrongful death legal protections protect surviving family members which is why they should be familiar with how a wrongful death legal claim works.
Surviving family members may be left facing devastating emotional and financial consequences after their loved one has been wrongfully killed. For that reason, the legal system provides options to protect them and provide as much help as possible when they have suffered the loss of a loved one which may include a spouse, parent or other loved one.