Key Factors Of A Wrongful Death Case

When you lose someone due to the negligent acts of another individual or entity, it can be devastating. Thankfully, there are options available to make the responsible party pay.

If you are considering a wrongful death case, you want to be fully knowledgeable so that you may reach the best outcome. There are a few key factors you should be aware of for any wrongful death claim.

Definition

A wrongful death is a fatality due to the negligent, wrongful or unlawful act of another party. The deceased individual’s family or estate may make the claim, and it may be a criminal or civil case.

Claimants

There are three classifications of claimants, or individuals who may receive compensation from a wrongful death claim. Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act, Title 42, details these individuals fully. The three categories are:

• Spouses
• Parents and other family
• Children

Depending on who the victim was, the claimant must fit in one of the categories above and meet the set requirements. The classification also plays into what types of damages the claimant may seek.

Damages

In a wrongful death case, claimants may request different types of damages. Some of the most common choices include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship
• Hospital and medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Estate administration expenses

Along with these damages, claimants may assert others depending on their classification. It is possible for claimants to seek several different damages in a case.

These are the main factors that you should know about a wrongful death case, but depending on your specific circumstances, there are other things to understand. It may be helpful to discuss your claim with a knowledgeable attorney to see what options are available to you. Either way, be sure to do your research so that you may receive the just compensation that you and your loved ones deserve.