Losing a loved one unexpectedly can leave you facing not only emotional loss but also financial strain. A wrongful death suit may allow you to seek monetary compensation for the economic and emotional impacts of your loss.
Understanding the financial relief available through a wrongful death suit can help you manage the practical aspects of such a significant loss.
Medical and funeral expenses
You can recover the costs associated with medical care your loved one received related to their fatal incident before their passing, along with funeral and burial costs. These expenses often represent a significant financial burden, and compensation can alleviate some of the immediate financial stress.
Lost wages and benefits
If your loved one contributed financially to your household, you could claim compensation for the income they would have earned had they lived. This includes not only lost wages but also lost benefits, such as health insurance and retirement savings, which can be crucial for maintaining your family’s financial future.
Loss of services
You may also seek compensation for the loss of services the deceased provided, like home maintenance, childcare, and other daily tasks. These services have economic value, and their loss can necessitate additional out-of-pocket costs.
Loss of care, guidance, and companionship
Wrongful death compensation is also available for the loss of emotional support, care, and companionship that your loved one provided. This aspect of a claim acknowledges the non-economic impact of your loss, which, while harder to quantify, is deeply felt.
Punitive damages
In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly willful or negligent, the court may award punitive damages. These awards are not connected to specific losses but the intent is to punish wrongful behavior and deter similar actions in the future.
Navigating a wrongful death claim in Virginia involves understanding these types of compensation so you can secure the financial support needed. While monetary compensation cannot replace your loss, it can provide necessary stability and help acknowledge the many ways your loved one contributed to your life.