New York Wrongful Death Attorney
When you have lost a loved one, no amount of money can make it right. While the grief and pain cannot be alleviated by monetary compensation, the fear and anxiety about your financial future can be relieved. When someone you love has died due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, a wrongful death claim can help lift the financial burden and secure your family’s now uncertain future. The compassionate New York wrongful death attorneys of Panzavecchia & Associates, PLLC are here to help during this difficult time.
Panzavecchia & Associates, PLLC has offices in Manhattan, Long Island and Queens. We offer free consultations and, if necessary, will come to your home or the hospital to meet with you.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death claims are complex and the laws are different in each state. Unlike many states, in addition to the damages and losses experienced by surviving family members, New York law allows you to sue for the pain and suffering your loved one experienced prior to death as a result of the injuries. Compensation for pain and suffering is paid to your loved one’s estate, and is separate from your claim, but the claims are normally joined to make things more efficient.
Money awarded to your loved one’s estate goes to the beneficiaries of the estate which may not be the same as the beneficiaries of the wrongful death claim.
A wrongful death claim can arise out of any accident or incident that would have been grounds for a personal injury lawsuit had your loved one survived. Examples include:
- Auto and truck accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability
- Slip and fall
- Pharmaceutical injuries
- Negligent security
- Toxic exposure
- Workplace injuries
- Construction accidents
Wrongful Death Beneficiaries
Those who may receive compensation through a wrongful death suit include:
- Children of the decedent
- Parents of the decedent
- Spouse of the decedent
Other dependents may or may not have a claim depending on the unique circumstances in your case.
Wrongful Death Damages
Wrongful death claims are meant to compensate family members for the losses they suffer as a result of the death. Damages can include:
- Future lost income of the decedent
- Lost financial support
- Values of lost services, such as childcare or home maintenance
- Loss of companionship, consortium, love, moral support, guidance, and protection
Punitive damages may be available, depending on the circumstances leading to your loved one’s death.
To learn more about wrongful death claims and your legal rights, please call the New York wrongful death attorneys of Panzavecchia & Associates, PLLC at 888-LAW-2204 or email us today. We will represent you on a contingent fee basis so we only get paid when you recover money for your claim.