What You Need to Know About a Wrongful Death Claim
Learning that the death of a loved one was avoidable only adds to the pain and devastation of your loss. While you cannot turn back time or change the reality of the situation, you ought to hold the negligent party accountable and get compensation for the wrongful death.
Like with any other personal injury claim, you have to show how the other party’s negligence resulted in the death of your loved one when you bring a claim against them.
The circumstances of the death matter
To claim compensation for wrongful death, the party you intend to sue must have owed your loved ones a duty of care. For instance, drivers owe other motorists and road users a duty of care, as do doctors to their patients. A duty of care means someone must take reasonable care not to cause harm or injury through their actions.
Negligence involves a breach of that duty of care. A reckless driver who causes a fatal crash or a deadly slip-and-fall accident arising from a hazardous condition can result in legal liability.
Lastly, you must demonstrate the losses or harm suffered as a result of your loved one’s death. It goes beyond funeral expenses and hospital bills. If your family lost its breadwinner, you deserve compensation to cover the financial gap. You may also be entitled to damages for the emotional pain and anguish arising from the death of a loved one.
Do you have a wrongful death claim?
If you lost a family member due to negligence, you need to get justice. Compensation will make it easier to transition to a life without your loved one’s presence and support. Understandably, filing a wrongful death claim can be an emotionally difficult undertaking. Therefore, it is advisable to reach out for assistance if you don’t know where to begin or what’s needed for a desirable outcome.
