Wrongful death legal protections can apply in a variety of different circumstances when family members have wrongfully lost a loved one. Wrongful death legal protections can apply in situations of nursing home abuse and neglect, car accidents and other situations and circumstances as well.
Wrongful death damages help surviving family members who have suffered the wrongful death of a loved one because of the negligence of another party such as a negligent driver or nursing home facility. A wrongful death claim in New Mexico is brought on behalf of the lost loved one’s estate for the benefit of surviving family members. Depending on the situation, a surviving spouse or children or grandchildren may be able to recover wrongful death damages.
Wrongful death damages are dependent on the characteristics of the victim and the circumstances but can include damages for loss of support and services; lost prospect of inheritance; lost earnings; loss of companionship; and medical and funeral expenses. Characteristics of the victim, including age, character, earning capacity, life expectancy and the health and intelligence of the victim may be considered when calculating compensation for wrongful death. The circumstances of the surviving family members may also be considered.
Wrongful death damages and a wrongful death claim for damages can help surviving family members during a difficult time. Losing a loved one can be an unthinkable loss for each family member which is why they should be aware of the legal protections available to them.
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