If you’re involved in a wrongful death lawsuit, you’re probably wondering what the typical wrongful death settlement is. This guide will explore what to expect.
If you’ve found yourself amid a wrongful death lawsuit, you’re probably wondering what is to come. No one wants to be in this position and it can be a confusing time. As you go through the grieving process, it will help to have a better understanding of the situation.
While no amount of money can replace the life of our loved ones, it is a step in the healing process. Keep reading to find out what the typical wrongful death settlement is and what you can expect.
What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
This is a catch-all term that involves the death of a family member. Survivors can take civil action to get financial compensation for the wrongful death of their loved one. Regardless, to successfully have a lawsuit there must be at least one party who is responsible.
Each wrongful death suit is different depending on the circumstances, so this may change the settlement amount. Some of the most common causes of wrongful death lawsuits are:
- Automobile accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability
- Workplace accident
- Criminal activity
Typical Wrongful Death Settlement
Several factors go into calculating a typical wrongful death settlement. As mentioned, each case is different not only in the cause of death but in how much you’re likely to settle with.
To start, you should know that wrongful death attorneys are prohibited from guaranteeing results. Lawsuits of this type are incredibly unpredictable.
Lost Money
Several financial losses can be covered in a wrongful death lawsuit. Some things to consider:
- Financial support: If your family member contributed to your financial situation and now there will be a significant change in your funds.
- Funeral and/or burial expenses: Any charges that you owe for the funeral or burial process.
- Loss of gifts of benefits: These are things your family member would have supplied.
- Household services: If your loved one cleaned or cooked in your household, you may be covered to hire services.
- Medical bills: Any medical bills that were accused in their final days.
Intangible Losses
Emotional devastation is a loss that is very real. However, these are harder to calculate. You could potentially get more from these than your financial losses. A wrongful death attorney will be able to help you with what to expect.
These types of losses include:
- Affection
- Moral support
- Guidance
- Attention
- Sexual relations
- Companionship
What Can Reduce Your Settlement Amount?
In some cases, some factors will reduce the settlement amount. One of the biggest factors to consider is if your loved one had any responsibility for their death. Depending on the percent that they are responsible for, your settlement will be cut by that percentage.
You may also have waited too long. Each state varies in its laws and you should start the process as soon as possible to avoid complete loss of funds.
Your choice in representation can greatly affect your settlement amount. Hiring a great attorney that can help you through this unfortunate event, will maximize your settlement potential.
Getting What You Deserve
Again, no amount of money can take the pain away from the loss of a loved one. However, when someone is responsible there is no reason that you should not get the justice that you deserve. It’s important to remember that your case is unlike any other. Typical wrongful death settlement amounts can greatly vary.
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