What damages can be recovered in a Virginia wrongful death case?

 

A: When someone tragically dies as the result of another party's negligence or misconduct, the term wrongful death is typically used to describe the sudden loss of the loved one.  Whether the result of a Norfolk truck accident, Virginia Beach car accident, Hampton Roads slip and fall accident, Newport News medical malpractice, or another type of fatal accident involving negligence in the state, the wrongful death of a family member may result in a Virginia wrongful death claim for damages.  Many laws apply regarding the surviving family members who may file a wrongful death claim, and laws vary by state, but the damages that are typically available to certain family members are the following:

• medical expenses related to the accident that caused the wrongful death of the accident victim, if the victim received medical treatment before suffering fatal injuries
• funeral and burial expenses
• the loss of future earnings and benefits (e.g., medical coverage and pension) of the accident victim
• the loss of companionship, protection, or care of the loved one
• in some instances, punitive damages (damages intended to punish the defendant, as in the case of some fatal vehicle accidents caused by drunk driving).

Although the above-listed damages are generally available in wrongful death cases, every Virginia fatal accident case is different, and a consultation with an experienced VA or Norfolk wrongful death lawyer can help surviving family members understand the unique factors involved in their case.  For free answers to your questions about wrongful death in Newport News, Norfolk, Eastern Shore, Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach, and other parts of the state, contact attorney Lawrence Land online or toll-free at 800-800-1911.