Losing a loved one is never easy. Emotionally, mentally, and financially, the aftermath can be incredibly challenging. At Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers, our compassionate Maryland wrongful death attorneys can help you handle your legal matters so you can attend to honoring and mourning the deceased. In your stead, we will fight hard to get the liable party to compensate you for all the losses you have suffered as a result of the death of your loved one.
You may never forget your loved one’s passing, but you can get the help you need to recover and move on by contacting us at (301) 932-9997.
What constitutes wrongful death?
A wrongful death claim can be brought forward by the estate and the surviving immediate family members of a person who was killed due to the negligence of another person or company. The claimants may pursue compensation for all resultant economic and non-economic damages.
What is the difference between a survival action and a wrongful death action?
Wrongful death actions are brought forward on the behalf of the survivors of the deceased, whereas survival actions are brought forward on the behalf of the estate. In a wrongful death claim case, immediate family members or other qualifying survivors may pursue compensation related to their loved one’s death. In a survival action, the estate may recover losses that resulted from the direct suffering and death of the decedent.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Maryland?
According to the laws of the state, there are two categories of people, one of which takes precedent over the other, that can pursue compensation in the case of a loved one’s death. Primary beneficiaries have top priority when it comes to collecting damages. They include the surviving spouse, parents, and children of the deceased. Secondary beneficiaries may file a claim only if no primary beneficiary is available or willing to do so.
What damages can I recover in a Maryland wrongful death lawsuit?
In a survival claim, damages suffered by the estate as a result of the untimely death may be pursued, including funeral and burial expenses, medical bills for the deceased person’s final illness or injury, property damages costs, and damages for the deceased person’s pain and suffering.
In a wrongful death claim, surviving family members may pursue compensation for lost wages and other economic damages, in addition to non-economic damages such as loss of the deceased person’s care, companionship, and guidance.
