When a person dies as a result of the negligent or wrongful act of another, a spouse, child, parent or estate executor may pursue what is known as a “wrongful death” claim.  A successful wrongful death claim allows a decedent’s loved ones to require the wrongdoer to compensate them for the financial and emotional hardship caused by the person’s death as we;; as economic losses.

Additionally, if the person was not killed instantly, a decedent’s loved ones may require the wrongdoer to compensate the decedent’s estate for the medical expenses incurred and the conscious physical pain and mental anguish endured by the decedent.  This portion of a wrongful death case is termed a ‘survival action’.

Williamson & Rusnak attorneys have significant skill and experience handling wrongful death cases involving:

Loved ones successful in their wrongful death suit and survival action may be able to recover money for:

·  The deceased’s medical expenses
·  Funeral and burial expenses
·  The deceased’s conscious mental and physical pain and suffering
     (actually considered a ‘survival action’)
·  Loss of the deceased’s financial support and benefits for his or
     her expected lifetime (income, pension, medical coverage)
·  Increased expenses incurred (such as for paying someone to perform
     the duties previously performed by the homemaker)
·  Loss of love, companionship, care, guidance and affection

In some cases involving gross negligence or malicious acts, a decedent’s loved ones may also be able to recover punitive damages (awards intended to punish the wrongdoer).   Contact Williamson & Rusnak and let our experts carefully investigate your wrongful death case and uncover all liability and sources of compensation.