Unexpectedly losing a loved one completely turns a family’s life upside down. The deceased’s loved ones suddenly have to plan a funeral and burial, grieve their loss, and adjust to a new way of life. These matters are often worse when their loved one died because of an individual’s or company’s negligence. In these cases, it may be some small comfort to bring the responsible party to justice.
Here are a few reasons why filing a lawsuit may be in your family’s best interests:
While your family is trying to cope with losing your loved one, there may be many external factors that add unnecessary stress. One of the most stress-inducing topics is money. You may have depended on your loved one’s salary to help with maintaining the household. Losing that support may leave you in turmoil about your current and future cost of living expenses as well as paying for the funeral and burial.
A successful settlement can grant you with financial compensation for your loss. The settlement could cover funeral and burial costs and also reduce many long-term financial obligations that can help you move forward. Below are some examples:
- You can recover damages for medical expenses that your loved one incurred if they were in a hospital or were in treatment for injuries caused by the negligent party. This may also include any tests that they had to undergo or prescription medication.
- You may be able to recover compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering as well as the hardships and suffering you and your family have endured.
- Your compensation may also cover lost wages and loss of earnings. Lost wages is for the work your loved one missed because of their injuries. Loss of earnings is what they would have earned in their lifetime. This could take a major financial burden off your shoulders.
- If you ran a household with your loved one, your compensation may include loss of someone who helped with household services, loss of companionship, and loss of care. When you lose a loved one, you’ve lost someone who provided stability and a foundation to your household. Your financial compensation may help bring some financial stability back to your life.
When Should You File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In order for us to help you with your lawsuit, you need to act a quickly as possible. Arkansas, like most states, has a statute of limitations on wrongful death cases. You have one year from the date of your loved one’s death to come forward. Waiting too long could miss the deadline and you won’t be eligible for compensation. Typically, the deceased’s spouse, children, parents, or siblings will file the claim. Our lawyers are ready to work with anyone seeking justice for their loved one.
When negligence leads to an untimely death, it’s imperative to know that you have options. The lawyers at McMath Woods P.A. are prepared to help fight for you and your lost loved one. Our lawyers are compassionate people who understand how delicate these types of situations are. We’ll look into your case and find how the negligent person’s actions caused your loved one to pass away. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.
While this won’t undo what was done, you may feel a bit better knowing that you won’t have to worry about finances in the future. With that taken care of, you and your family can grieve in peace. You can take the time you need to heal.