Did you know that there was an estimated 2 million work-related accidents that caused death in 2021? When wrongful deaths occur at work, families are left to pick up the pieces.
Unfortunately, unscrupulous companies put workers and customers in harm’s way. If your loved one lost their life due to someone’s negligence, you might be able to file a wrongful death claim.
Keep reading to learn more about wrongful death damages claims and how they’re calculated.
What Are the Different Types of Wrongful Death Damages?
There is no one answer to the question of how wrongful death damages are calculated, as the amount of damages awarded in a wrongful death case will vary depending on the specifics of the case.
Yet, a few general types of damages are often awarded in wrongful death cases. This includes economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
How Are Economic Damages Calculated in a Wrongful Death Case?
In a wrongful death case, economic damages are calculated by looking at the victim’s economic contributions to their family. This includes their earnings, as well as the value of any services they provided, such as child care or housekeeping, and funeral and burial expenses.
The court will also consider the victim’s expected future earnings and inflation. The damages awarded will then be used to support the victim’s surviving family members.
How Are Non-Economic Damages Calculated?
To calculate non-economic damages, the jury considers many factors. The relationship of the deceased to the survivors. Also, the survivors’ ages, the nature of the relationship, and the effect of the death on the survivors. Juries will also consider the survivors’ mental and physical health. As well as the circumstances surrounding the death.
An experienced wrongful death attorney will consider all of these factors and more. To ensure that the victim’s family receives the maximum compensation possible. A wrongful death lawsuit is a long process, but the family will receive what they deserve.
How Are Punitive Damages Calculated?
Punitive damages in a wrongful death case are calculated using several factors. Including the degree of fault of the person who caused the death. The amount of damages the victim would have been entitled to if they had not died, and the amount of damages the victim’s family has suffered.
The court will also consider the financial resources of the person who caused the death and whether they were acting with intent or recklessness. This is implemented to punish the responsible party and deter others from similar conduct.
When to Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
If you are considering hiring a wrongful death lawyer, it is crucial to do so as soon as possible. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the sooner they can begin investigating your case and gathering evidence.
This will give you the best chance of recovering the total amount of damages you are entitled to. It is important suing for wrongful death, and this will give you the right compensation you deserve.
This Guide Will Help You Know Your Rights
Although there is no single answer to this question, as each case is unique, there are some general principles that can be followed when calculating wrongful death damages.
An experienced wrongful death attorney can help you navigate the process of calculating damages. And ensure that you are fairly compensated for your losses.
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