If you’re considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit, one of the biggest questions that may arise is: How much compensation can my family receive? It should be noted that every case is unique, and numerous factors can determine how much money will be paid out for a successful claim.
Typical Wrongful Death Settlement Ranges
Wrongful death cases in Kentucky can vary significantly. Unfortunately, there is no “average” or “typical” payout to gauge for wrongful death, but an experienced attorney can help assess the details of your case. The awarded payout, if any, will be dependent on the surrounding circumstances of the wrongful death.
Key Factors That Impact Settlement Amounts
While various factors can impact the settlement awarded in a wrongful death case, the main ones typically include:
- The cause of death – Was the death caused by negligence, recklessness, or a preventable action? These can all impact the settlement amount.
- Economic losses – Lost wages, medical expenses, and funeral costs all play a role in awarded compensation in a wrongful death claim.
- Pain and suffering – Emotional distress and loss of companionship can increase compensation in certain cases.
- Punitive damages – If the incident that led to your family member’s death was caused by gross negligence, you can seek additional punitive damages. This can result in a higher settlement being awarded.
Realistic Examples of Wrongful Death Payouts
Again, it’s important to understand that every civil case involving wrongful death will have different variables and outcomes. The following provides hypothetical examples of how wrongful death settlements vary:
- A $500,000 settlement for a fatal workplace accident due to code violations;
- A $1,000,000 settlement for a car accident caused by a drunk driver; or
- A higher settlement in a wrongful death incident involving gross negligence, such as medical malpractice.
A wrongful death lawyer can discuss the details of your case and help you get an idea of the potential outcome. Contact the Office of Morrin Law for a consultation today.
How to Maximize Compensation
There may be ways to help maximize the awarded compensation in a successful wrongful death case. This can include the following:
- Gather strong evidence – Documenting information like police reports, medical records, burial and funeral costs, and witness statements all help to build a strong case for being awarded compensation in a wrongful death case.
- File your claim properly and promptly – There are specific steps and time limits to refer to when attempting to be awarded compensation through a wrongful death claim. This includes the statute of limitations. In Kentucky, KRS 411.130 provides the actions and personal representative information for prosecution. You typically have one year from the family member’s death to file the claim.
- Work with an experienced wrongful death attorney – While you may attempt to file a claim on your own, it’s worth noting that these are complex civil matters. It is in your favor to work with an attorney, and a lawyer who is skilled in wrongful death cases can try to negotiate for higher settlements.
Morrin Law Office has experienced wrongful death attorneys who understand the nuances that often accompany these cases. When you trust us with your case, we will do everything we can to ensure your case is filed with strong evidence and within the statute of limitations. Our goal is for you to be awarded optimal compensation that lets you and your family begin to heal from this tragedy, both financially and emotionally.
Finding a Personal Injury Attorney in Kentucky
While no amount of money can replace a loved one, a fair wrongful death settlement can help ease financial burdens and hold negligent parties accountable. To discuss your case, contact a trusted Kentucky wrongful death attorney today. Morrin Law Firm is prepared to stand by your side and help you navigate the complex legal world during this difficult time. Call our office at (859) 358-0300 to receive a risk-free case evaluation.
0 Comments