Legally, the term “wrongful death” refers to circumstances when one person’s negligence leads to another person’s death. Negligence leading to “wrongful death” may arise in various situations including, but not limited to, motor vehicle accidents, construction site accidents, swimming pool accidents and medical malpractice. The victim’s family and loved ones suffer pain and often financial hardships, leaving them feeling helpless and alone.
Damages considered in a “wrongful death” case may include:
- Grief, psychological suffering, loss of companionship and support;
- Loss of income imputed to the person who died;
- Loss of help, security, and assistance which the person who died had previously provided to the survivors/beneficiaries;
- Medical and hospitalization expenses for the treatment of the person who died.
In wrongful death cases, it is usually the victim’s family that files a lawsuit. However, they are often too emotionally exhausted and overwhelmed to focus on their legal rights. The Fort Lauderdale criminal attorneys at John P. Contini & Associates, P.A. are sensitive to the victim’s family concerns and will work with you to discuss legal options to seek justice.
When wrongful death is proven, the bereaved loved ones may recoup some of the following:
- Funeral expenses;
- Medical expenses;
- Lost wages (from time of injury to death);
- Loss of earning capacity;
- Loss of companionship and services (in the case of certain family members).
Insurance companies often push to settle wrongful death cases immediately, before families of the victims can fully assess the ramifications of their immense loss. These wealthy insurance companies can afford limitless legal counsel so it is essential for the bereaved to procure legal counsel so that they might understand their legal rights. Our Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyers can provide this at John P. Contini & Associates, P.A.
If you believe someone you love was killed in a “wrongful death” situation where negligence is to blame, call us now at 954-766-8810 to contact a Ft Lauderdale criminal lawyer and see if you, as a survivor, might have a claim.
