If a loved one passes away due to someone else’s negligence, you may seek compensation through a wrongful death case. For instance, perhaps they passed away in a car accident caused by another driver. Because that driver was responsible, they are liable for many of the unexpected financial damages you are now facing.
Along with standard economic and non-economic damages, such as medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering, you may want to consider seeking compensation for loss of consortium. Essentially, you are losing a close relationship that you expected to continue, and there are many benefits that are also being lost along with it.
What factors are considered in these cases?
For instance, say that your spouse passed away in a car accident. You lose the romantic relationship you had with them, and this can also lead to a loss of:
- Physical and emotional support
- Sexual intimacy
- Assistance with daily life and household chores
- Daily companionship and connection
- Assistance with childcare or caregiving within the home
In other words, if your spouse passed away, you are losing more than just their income. It can be very emotionally difficult to adjust to life without this person at your side. The intangible benefits of being in a loving relationship were taken away from you through someone else’s negligence, so they may be liable for that loss.
This can be somewhat more complicated to address than strict economic damages, such as medical bills and funeral or burial costs, but it is possible to seek compensation. Be sure you know exactly what legal steps to take.