If you have recently lost a loved one in an accident, you might be overwhelmed by the many financial struggles that can sometimes follow these cases. While you are grieving, you should not have to deal with the monetary consequences of these accidents. This is especially true when your loved one was particularly close to you, such as a child, spouse, or parent.
Let’s assume that you lost a loved one at the hands of a negligent party. You should not be left to worry about the financial impact that a wrongful death claim has on you after somebody has acted in an especially negligent way and contributed to your accident. Luckily, you have a right to financial compensation when you bring what is known as a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for your losses.
If you are the family member of a loved one, you will generally be permitted to file a wrongful death claim. Many families have been successful in these cases when it comes to recovering damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, pain and suffering, and more. Our attorneys will ensure that you are never left behind when it comes to receiving the largest awards possible to pay the many expenses that you and your family have incurred.
Financial Support in the Form of Lost Wages
If you and your loved ones relied on the support of a decedent on a financial level, and they have passed away and, as a result, income is no longer coming in, there is a chance that you will be eligible for lost wages. However, there are several factors that must be considered. Some of the aspects that you will look at are how much the decedent was earning at their place of employment before they passed and the earning capacity they might have achieved in the future. For this, experts might be called in, such as a financial expert who will be able to take raises and promotions into consideration.
Another factor that might be considered in these cases is how much of those wages was going toward the needs of others. For instance, if you have lost your spouse in an accident, what happens if they were considered to be the breadwinner in your family? As a sole provider, your loved one provided entirely for your family, so now you are expected to pick up the slack. However, it might not be so easy to get back on your feet. Through proof of support given to the family, you will be able to receive financial support that will keep your family pushing on through a difficult position.
Seeking the Help of an Attorney
When it comes to wrongful death claims, many factors will be considered and you might find that many complex laws dictate the restitution you can receive in your claim. As a result, you should always have an experienced attorney working on your side through this challenging time. Not only can an attorney apply certain laws to your claim and inform you of your rights, but they can also help you meet filing deadlines and more in your case.
At Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet & Buckner, our car accident attorneys understand how difficult it can be to face the aftermath of an accident where a loved one is taken from you so suddenly. There are many damages that might be available to you in a wrongful death claim, which is why it is imperative to act quickly and retain your rights at this time. Please contact us today for more information at (304) 713-2014.
