If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be wondering what you can do next. What can make up for your relative’s financial contribution to your household? What can be done to hold a negligent party accountable for the accident and the pain that they have caused? Your best option may be suing for wrongful death damages. A Snohomish County wrongful death lawyer can tell you more about this option and which relatives can pursue damages.
What Are the State’s Rules About Who Can Sue For Wrongful Death?
First, it’s important to note that only one wrongful death suit can be filed. Individual family members cannot just all file their own suit and claim damages. Instead, the closest family member will usually be the one to file the suit. This can be:
- A spouse or domestic partner of the deceased
- Surviving children
- Surviving parents, if the deceased had no spouse or children
Sometimes other family members or financial dependents can make their case for suing if the deceased does not have a spouse, children, or surviving parents. For example, if the deceased took in a niece or nephew and provided them with financial support, that niece or nephew may be able to sue.
Another important thing to know is that the family member suing for wrongful death damages is not necessarily the one who will bring forward the lawsuit. This is the responsibility of the personal representative of the deceased’s estate, also known as the executor. The executor sues for damages on behalf of the family, even if they are a friend of the family or a professional, like an attorney.
What Can Wrongful Death Damages Cover?
Wrongful death damages can cover the economic costs of the accident, but they’re also meant to make up for the trauma that you and your family have experienced as a result of the loss of your loved one. Your compensation should be calculated with all of the following in mind:
- The cost of your loved one’s medical treatments
- Funeral and burial costs
- The wages your loved one would have contributed to the household
- The loss of guidance and companionship experienced by family members of the deceased
- Any other pain and suffering you have experienced
Should I Hire a Lawyer?
Building a wrongful death case and proving negligence on your own can be difficult. When you hire a lawyer, they can do a variety of things to assist you with your case and negotiate for a fair settlement. An attorney from our firm can:
- Help you gather evidence
- Talk to witnesses
- Handle all communications on your behalf
- File a case before the statute of limitations expires
- Field settlement offers
- Prepare you for testimony or depositions
Meet With Our Car Accident Attorneys
Suing for wrongful death damages on your own can be difficult. Contact Amy C Brown Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation with our team and learn more about how our attorneys can assist you. We are ready to help you fight for fair compensation.
