While the law gives accident victims the legal right to seek compensation for their damages, the death of the victim makes the situation much more complicated. Relatives of those killed due to other people's negligence often wonder whether they're entitled to file a personal injury claim on behalf of loved ones who cannot represent themselves. Fortunately, the law allows some survivors to seek justice with a wrongful death suit, a special type of personal injury case.

Grounds For a Wrongful Death Claim

Almost any situation that would have resulted in a personal injury suit had the victim lived can become the grounds for a wrongful death claim. Some of the most common causes are auto accidents and deaths due to unsafe premises, but can also include product liability and toxic pollution claims. To collect damages, you must demonstrate that your family member's death is a direct result of the defendant's negligence or malice.

Valuing a Wrongful Death Case

Personal injury claims are often based on monetary damages, such as lost wages and medical expenses, in addition to some non-economic damages. Because the victim did not survive, the value of wrongful death claims are calculated differently. Along with any medical expenses and burial costs, you may be able to sue for lost income, the value of lost benefits such as a pension, and pain and suffering. A skilled wrongful death attorney will help determine the exact value of your claim to ensure that you get the fairest settlement offer possible.

For more than 100 years, the attorneys at Pater, Pater & Halverson Co. have been representing accident victims throughout the Hamilton, OH area, providing the leverage and legal insight necessary to collect the compensation they deserve. If you've lost a loved one to someone's carelessness, visit their website or call (513) 867-1411 for a consultation today.