Who can bring a wrongful death claim for damages?

When a loved one has been wrongfully lost, it is important for the surviving family members who have been affected to know who may be able to bring a wrongful death claim for damages against the negligent driver or other party responsible for the wrongful loss they have suffered. A wrongful death claim for damages in Colorado may be brought against the negligent party for the benefit of surviving family members.

One-way damages in a wrongful death claim are sought on behalf of the estate of the lost loved one, benefiting surviving family members who seek compensation for their financial and emotional damages. Damages that can be recovered include:

• Hospital and funeral costs.
• Loss of past and future income and support.
• Loss of consortium and companionship for the family.

Depending on the situation, you can also get other types of losses.

Alternately, depending on the state, a wrongful death claim for damages may be brought by the spouse of the lost loved one or their children or other family members. Wrongful death claims are governed by wrongful death statutes, which vary by state, so family members who have lost their loved one in a car or other type of accident should be familiar with the wrongful death laws in their state. Certain family members may also be given priority for filing a wrongful death claim based on state law.

Wrongful death laws are a critical protection for surviving family members who may feel they have been left with nothing as they are facing an unthinkable loss. A wrongful death claim may help in small part so they can recover compensation for their financial and emotional challenges they may have been unprepared to deal with because of the unexpected loss.