a wrongful death case, damages can be sought to compensate the surviving family members for the losses they have suffered as a result of the death of their loved one. These damages can be categorized into two main types
economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
– Medical expenses
This includes any medical bills incurred as a result of the deceased person’s injury or illness leading to their death. It may include hospitalization costs, medication expenses, and any other medical treatments.
– Funeral and burial expenses
The costs associated with the funeral and burial arrangements, including the casket, burial plot, funeral service, and other related expenses.
– Loss of financial support
This refers to the income that the deceased person would have provided to their family had they not died. It takes into account the person’s earning capacity, work history, and potential future earnings.
– Loss of benefits
If the deceased person had any pension plans, retirement benefits, or other employment-related benefits, the surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of these benefits.
– Loss of inheritance
If the deceased person would have left an inheritance to their family members, the value of that inheritance can be sought as damages.
Non-Economic Damages
– Pain and suffering
Compensation for the emotional and psychological pain experienced by the surviving family members due to the loss of their loved one.
– Loss of companionship and consortium
This refers to the loss of the deceased person’s love, companionship, guidance, and support that the surviving family members would have otherwise received.
– Mental anguish
Compensation for the emotional distress, grief, and suffering endured by the surviving family members as a result of the wrongful death.
– Loss of parental guidance
If the deceased person was a parent, the children may be entitled to damages for the loss of parental guidance, care, and support.
It’s important to note that the specific damages that can be sought in a wrongful death case may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. Additionally, the amount of damages awarded will depend on various factors such as the age and health of the deceased person, their earning capacity, the relationship between the deceased and the surviving family members, and the impact of the death on the family.