Losing a loved one due to someone else's negligence is devastating, and while no amount of compensation can replace the loss, California law allows family members to seek financial relief through a wrongful death lawsuit. At Law Office of Cierra Esq, APC, we assist the California public with personal injury matters, including wrongful death claims. Understanding how compensation is calculated in these cases is essential to ensure that families receive the support they need during a difficult time.

Types of Compensation in a Wrongful Death Case

In California, compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit is divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages. These categories aim to address both the financial losses and the emotional suffering that the surviving family experiences.

1. Economic Damages

Economic damages are tangible financial losses that result from the death. These damages are more straightforward to calculate and may include:

• 
  Funeral and burial expenses: The cost of laying the deceased to rest can be claimed as part of the compensation.
• Loss of financial support: The income and benefits that the deceased would have provided to their family over their lifetime are calculated based on their earning capacity, age, and health at the time of death.
• Medical expenses: If the deceased incurred medical bills before passing away due to the injury, these costs can be included.
• Value of household services: The value of contributions the deceased made to household tasks, such as childcare, cooking, and maintenance, is also considered.

2. Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and seek to compensate the surviving family members for emotional and psychological losses. These may include:

• 
  
  Loss of companionship: Compensation for the loss of love, companionship, and support that the deceased would have provided to their spouse, children, or other dependents.
• Loss of guidance and nurturing: In cases where the deceased was a parent, children may receive compensation for the loss of parental guidance, care, and nurturing.
• Emotional suffering: The grief and emotional distress experienced by the surviving family members can be compensated, although this is often the most challenging aspect to quantify.

Factors Affecting Compensation

Several factors influence the amount of compensation awarded in a California wrongful death lawsuit, including:

• 
  The age and health of the deceased: Younger individuals with a longer expected life span generally result in higher compensation amounts, as they would have contributed financially for a longer period.
• The deceased’s earning potential: A higher income level will result in greater financial losses for the family, leading to higher compensation for lost earnings.
• The relationship between the deceased and the claimant: Close family members such as spouses, children, and parents are generally eligible to claim compensation. The extent of the relationship can impact non-economic damages.
• Insurance policy limits: The compensation awarded may also be limited by the insurance policy of the at-fault party.

How Law Office of Cierra Esq, APC Can Help

Wrongful death cases are emotionally challenging and legally complex. At Law Office of Cierra Esq, APC, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled representation for families seeking justice and compensation for their loss. We work closely with financial experts to accurately calculate the economic and non-economic damages owed to you, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation possible.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact Law Office of Cierra Esq, APC today to learn how we can assist you with your wrongful death claim in California.