Losing a loved one is amongst the most difficult thing a person can experience. This pain and sorrow may be multiplied if they were killed as a result of the actions of somebody else’s negligence, which may have been entirely avoided. After dealing with the emotional trauma caused by the death, a loved one left in the wake of such a tragedy may wish to pursue a wrongful death suit.
But how does filing a wrongful death suit work? Who may file one? And how may you be successful in such a claim? This guide will help navigate you through these questions.
How much time do I have to file a claim?
“An action to recover damages under this section shall be commenced within three years from the date of death.” – MA General Laws, Chapter 229, Section 2
Recovering from a tragic, wrongful death isn’t something that happens overnight. It is an ongoing process that may require counseling, therapy and much self-exploration before any amount of peace may be achieved. Knowing this reality, the law of Massachusetts allots three years between the death of the individual and the ability of a wrongful death suit to be filed.
Who may file a wrongful death claim?
Following a death, only the representative of the deceased’s estate may serve as a plaintiff in any wrongful death suit. This representative may be appointed in the deceased’s will. However, if the deceased did not leave a will, a family member or other eligible party must petition the court in order to be named the legal representative of their estate.
This representative may be represented by an attorney to assist them with the complex legal issues that come up in any wrongful death suit.
Who may be liable in a wrongful death suit?
Chapter 229 of the Massachusetts General Laws defines a few specific instances where someone would be liable in a wrongful death case, including: anyone whose negligence causes a loss of life, including someone whose job required carrying passengers (such as a bus driver).
However, the law also points out that certain individuals are not liable for certain instances that cause a death, such as a person operating a train killing someone who trespasses and walks on the train tracks. In this case, the deceased was not following the law and the train operator could not be held liable for the unlawful and unexpected actions of such an individual.
How are wrongful death claims paid?
Wrongful death suits which result in compensation being paid out are a burden to be paid by the responsible party. They are distributed to the deceased’s estate, which then must be disseminated according to their will, if such a document had been prepared.
For most wrongful death suits, the limit on damages is capped at $500,000. These damages may encompass damages described as “noneconomic,” which include punitive damages, mental anguish caused by the death as well as pain and suffering sustained as a result of the wrongful death.
Contact our office for assistance today
When a loved one dies, especially the death of significant other or a sole-surviving parent, it will be difficult not to feel alone. However, when sorting out the details of any action intended to hold the responsible party for their death accountable, you never need to go about such a difficult and painful process alone.
The legal professionals at Altman & Altman LLP have over 40 years of experience advocating on behalf of victims left behind in a wake of despair by negligent individuals who caused the wrongful death of a beloved one. We will make sure to handle your case with the utmost priority and sensitivity in these tough times.
Call us today for a free consultation to go over the details of your case at 617-492-3000 or toll-free at 800-481-6199. We are available 24/7, and we don’t get paid for any of our services unless you are successful in a claim.