The purpose of wrongful death litigation is to provide financial relief to those left behind after a preventable tragedy caused by another’s negligence or intentional harm. Businesses and individuals responsible for causing a premature death may need to provide compensation to the estate of the person who died or their surviving family members.
During wrongful death lawsuits, plaintiffs request a specific amount of compensation based on their verifiable losses. They can also add certain non-economic losses in qualifying circumstances. Non-economic losses are intangible consequences that impact people’s lives after a tragedy.
What types of non-economic losses do plaintiffs often include in Connecticut wrongful death lawsuits?
Loss of consortium
If the person who died has a surviving spouse, the spouse can request compensation for the loss of consortium. The courts may grant compensation for the loss of a spouse’s affection, intimacy and companionship.
Mental anguish and grief
Surviving family members may struggle to adjust to life after the loss of a loved one. They may experience protracted emotional distress, possibly leading to depression and other mental health challenges.
The pain and suffering of the deceased
Not all fatal injuries result in instantaneous mortality. The injured party may have suffered for hours or days before their passing. Compensation for their suffering can contribute to the total value of non-economic damages.
Loss of parental guidance
If children lose a parent, they may be able to request damages for the loss of their parent’s guidance and nurturing.
Determining a fair and just amount of non-economic damages can be difficult for grieving families. The guidance of an experienced wrongful death lawyer can help plaintiffs determine what non-economic damages they can seek in a lawsuit.
