Practice Areas

Blog

News

Library

Testimonials

View All

Gaining Fair Compensation in a Massachusetts Wrongful Death Claim (Part B)

When filing a Massachusetts wrongful death claim, it's important to be aware of what types of compensation are available. It is important to note that no one can tell you what your individual claim may be worth without looking at the specifics of your case, including your loved one's occupation, family life, the circumstances of their death and other personal information.

Compensation in Massachusetts Wrongful Death Claims

There are essentially 4 areas of compensation in Massachusetts wrongful death claims:

  • direct expenses;
  • compensation for non-economic factors;
  • compensation for future earnings; and
  • punitive damages.

All 4 of these factors-or 1 or more individual considerations-may be applicable in your Massachusetts wrongful death case.

Direct expenses are all the economic costs of losing your loved one
. You may receive direct monetary compensation for these expenses, should another party be found responsible for their death. These economic costs include:

  • Medical bills for any treatment prior to the time of death
  • Burial expenses
  • Funeral costs

Non-economic factors include the emotional and psychological issues you may now be experiencing due to your loved one's passing. Dollar amounts in this area are usually subjective, which is why you'll need the assistance of a wrongful death attorney to help you put a value on each area. Non-economic damages can include:

  • Mental anguish
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of care
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of consortium

Compensation for future earnings has to do with the loss of future wages and benefits belonging to the deceased. This amount is typically estimated based on the number of years the deceased was expected to continue working. This can vary case to case as numbers are based on both objective and subjective criteria.

Finally, punitive damages apply when it can be proven that your loved one's death was due to the reckless, willful, or wanton acts of another
. Punitive damages are designed as punishment for the individual (or entity) responsible for your loved one's death and will only apply in extreme cases of neglect.

If you feel that your loved one's passing qualifies as wrongful death, contact a Massachusetts wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. Massachusetts has a statute of limitations that will prevent you from filing a claim if too much time has passed.

The Massachusetts personal injury attorneys at Phillips & Garcia will fight for your rights in your wrongful death case. We are committed to protecting your best interests and helping you collect the damages you need and deserve to move on with your life. If you have been injured in a Massachusetts accident, contact Phillips & Garcia today to schedule your FREE legal consultation - (877) 892-5620.


Contact Information

Let our legal experts review your case, and we'll help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Begin your case review by filling out the form below:

Name *

Phone *

Email *

State *

Tell us more *


&nsbp;

Phillips & Garcia, P.C.
13 Ventura Drive
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
Toll Free: (888) 449-5343
Get Directions

Free Book

FAQs