If a loved one dies because of another person’s negligent behavior, it may be possible to pursue a wrongful death suit against that individual. Hospitals, insurance companies and other entities based in Massachusetts or elsewhere may also be named in such a lawsuit. Take a closer look at how filing a wrongful death lawsuit may benefit yourself and other surviving family members.
Your family may be entitled to various forms of compensation
You or other family members may receive compensation for any loss of financial support that occurred because of an individual’s untimely death. You may also be able to receive a financial award to make up for some or all of any inheritance that you lost out on after a parent or grandparent died.
Family members may be compensated for medical or funeral costs
Your spouse, parent or grandparent may have incurred medical bills as a result of another person or entity’s negligent actions. Surviving family members may be able to obtain reimbursement for the amount that they either paid or are responsible for eventually paying. Furthermore, it may be possible to receive reimbursement for funeral or other final expenses.
The cost of services may be included in a settlement or jury award
In a wrongful death case, a judge or jury may be able to place a value on services rendered by a spouse who stayed at home rather than bringing in a paycheck. An expert witness may be able to help jurors better understand the monetary value of someone who makes dinner or cleans the family home while the other spouse is at work. It is important to note that a judge may alter the amount of compensation a family is entitled to for services rendered by a deceased individual.
Generally speaking, money will not erase the pain of losing a loved one. However, pursuing a wrongful death suit may help to hold those responsible for a loved one’s passing accountable for their actions.
