Call Us atThe loss of a loved one is exceedingly painful, especially if the loss resulted from another person’s negligence. While nothing can replace the person you love, you might be entitled to compensation for the emotional turmoil you are experiencing. An Anchorage wrongful death lawyer could help you navigate the uncertain waters of a civil lawsuit and help you reach a fair outcome.
Separate from criminal charges, a civil wrongful death case could provide you with monetary compensation for pain and suffering, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other such damages. A compassionate personal injury attorney could be by your side every step of the way and deliver justice for your family.
Surviving Family Entitled to a Claim
Alaska law specifies who can receive compensation from a wrongful death claim. Specifically, it is only the surviving spouse, surviving children, and other surviving dependents. For example, if an aged parent is living with their adult child and dependent on that child, the elderly parent can recover damages. A representative of the deceased’s estate can file the claim, even if they are not a family member.
This provision of the law is designed to ensure that those who are most impacted by the decedent’s untimely demise are appropriately compensated. By specifying strict guidelines of who may file such a suit and receive monetary compensation, there is less chance that unrelated or distantly related individuals will take advantage of the situation. This cuts down on the possibility of a frivolous lawsuit.
Statute of Limitations
There is a limited amount of time in which a wrongful death suit can be filed in Alaska. Typically, this statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. There are some rare exceptions to this deadline, so it is crucial to retain the services of an Anchorage attorney who works wrongful death cases and understands the relevant laws in determining the statute of limitations for an individual case. Regardless of whether an exception applies, it is important to make the call early so that an accidental death lawyer could get straight to work. There are special deadline that may apply to a wrongful death claim, and it is important to act quickly so any claim is not time barred.
Damages Sought in a Wrongful Death Case
Punitive damages in civil cases are intended to punish the at-fault party for their egregious actions. In situations that involve a death, there are some circumstances where punitive damages may be pursued in a civil case.
A civil wrongful death suit is about compensating for the harms and losses of the deceased victim as well as compensating those left behind. In addition to any medical expenses related to treating the person before they died, damages in this type of case include:
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of income
- Loss of companionship
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
Not every case will merit these damages and this is not an exhaustive list of the damages that may be available. Each case is different and should be examined by an Anchorage wrongful death lawyer to determine which losses could be compensable.
Reach Out to an Anchorage Wrongful Death Attorney
There is no more significant loss than the unexpected death of a loved one. If you have lost someone through the negligence or carelessness of another individual, you should consult with an Anchorage wrongful death lawyer. End-of-life care, funeral expenses, and emotional distress come at a great cost that you should not be forced to pay. Reach out for a private and personal consultation today.
