Wrongful Death Claim
Updated: 29 February 2024
What Does Wrongful Death Claim Mean?
A wrongful death claim is a claim against a party for loss of life as a result of a negligent or willful act. The claim may be filed by a surviving family member or loved ones of the deceased.
A wrongful death claim is a civil suit, as opposed to a murder charge, which is a criminal suit.
Insuranceopedia Explains Wrongful Death Claim
Wrongful death claims are filed for deaths resulting from malpractice, accidents, and other forms of negligence.
The claimed damages can include:
- Burial and funeral costs
- Medical expenses prior to the death
- Pre-death pain experienced by the deceased
- Lost love and companionship
The deceased’s family members or loved ones may still file a life insurance claim even after a successful wrongful death claim. It would supplement their life insurance benefit rather than replace it.
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