The potential value of a wrongful death case depends on several factors, including the circumstances of the case, the losses suffered by the surviving family members, and the extent of the at-fault party’s liability.
Some factors that may be considered when determining the value of a wrongful death case in California include:
- The age and health of the deceased person at the time of their death
- The deceased person’s earning capacity and potential future earnings
- The degree of fault of the at-fault party
- The financial and emotional losses suffered by the surviving family members, such as loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional distress
- The cost of medical and funeral expenses related to the death
- Whether the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly egregious or intentional, which may justify punitive damages
Determining the potential value of a wrongful death case can be complex and challenging, and may require the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help evaluate the specific facts of your case and determine the potential damages that may be available, as well as the best strategies for pursuing those damages.
It’s important to note that California law places limits on the amount of damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death lawsuit. For example, non-economic damages are subject to a cap of $250,000 in medical malpractice cases, and $350,000 in cases involving a government entity. An experienced personal injury attorney can help evaluate the potential damages in your case and advise you on the best course of action.