Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is a lifetime of suffering. Although no compensation can fulfill the absence of your lost family member, claiming monetary death settlements can ease your financial burden. The financial burden includes lost wages, burial or cremation charges, medical bills, etc. Consulting with an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento can help you guide and file a claim.
Wrongful death compensation is based on monetary amounts, including financial and nonfinancial losses suffered by the deceased’s survivors or dependents. Settlement calculation includes assessing the cost of your damages, past and future medical costs, lost income, and suffering.
The Economic Damages You May Be Entitled to:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills before death
- Lost wages or loss of income for dependents
- Home maintenance
The Non-economic Damages You May Receive Are:
- Pain and suffering caused to the family
- Pain and suffering caused to the spouse in particular
- Loss of parental care and guidance for children
- Pain and suffering caused to parents who lost their child
Laws Concerning the Case
It is imperative to take notice of the statute of limitations or time limit given for filing the case. In most states, the time limit is two years to file a wrongful death case. However, filing the lawsuit sooner is necessary to protect your rights and fight against the at-fault party.
The personal representative of the victim or deceased person is liable to file the wrongful death claim on behalf of the estate and other family members. The victim’s will or estate plan must contain the personal representative’s name.
If the victim dies without a will, the court appoints a personal representative to pursue the case. The personal representative includes either a spouse, parent, or adult child.
The personal representative has to show proof against the wrongdoer who caused the death in court to claim compensation. Therefore, it may be challenging to file a claim without professional assistance. Additionally, the compensation recovery will be restricted to the available insurance. Hiring a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento can gather the evidence and other documents to make a solid case against the wrongdoer.
Conclusion
Dealing with the death of a loved one causes emotional strain and financial burden on the family. Claiming for wrongful death compensation can be overwhelming because of little knowledge. Since every case is unique, determining the average claim for a car accident can be challenging. Consulting with a car accident attorney can help you handle the stress and win the case against the at-fault party. A professional lawyer helps guide you through the legal process and get you the compensation you deserve.