When you lose a loved one in the state of Michigan due to somebody else’s actions, you may have the right to sue them for damages. These types of lawsuits are referred to as wrongful death lawsuits and allow you to collect monetary damages from the culpable party. However, not just anybody can file a wrongful death lawsuit when a death occurs.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit?
A wrongful death lawsuit is fairly similar to a personal injury lawsuit. If you experienced a serious injury due to somebody else’s negligence, recklessness or deliberate behavior, you could sue them for monetary damages. A wrongful death lawsuit is very similar to this except for the fact that the victim is unable to sue their assailant because they are dead.
To stand in their place, each state outlines specific people who are allowed to sue the culpable party. Generally, the deceased person’s spouse and children may sue the party responsible for the wrongful death. Some states extend this to include extended family members like siblings, grandparents, aunts and even uncles. It’s best to check with a lawyer in your state to determine whether or not you have grounds for filing a wrongful death lawsuit because of the death of your loved one.
What type of damages can you collect?
Wrongful death lawsuits are all about receiving monetary damages. These damages can be for a variety of different things, including medical bills, burial expenses, lost contributions, and the loss of consortium. It’s important to note that not all states allow you to collect punitive damages, so it’s best to check with a lawyer in your state.
