What type of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death or medical malpractice lawsuit?

In Washington, a wrongful death or medical malpractice lawsuit may result in a variety of damages being awarded to the plaintiff. Damages that can be recovered may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, burial costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. Some other damages that can be recovered include the value of the services of the deceased, loss of society and companionship, and punitive damages for particularly egregious conduct. Damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship can be calculated by the court, but are often difficult to place a value on due to the emotional distress and suffering that often accompany medical malpractice cases. In some cases, the actual economic value of the deceased person’s services, such as gardening, homemaking, childcare, or business services may be awarded. Punitive damages can also be awarded in extreme cases of medical malpractice, where the defendant’s actions show a high degree of negligence or recklessness. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant and discourage similar behavior in the future. In most cases, the amount of punitive damages awarded is higher than the amount of compensatory damages. No amount of money can ever replace the life of a loved one, but recovering fair compensation can help ease the financial burden associated with a wrongful death or medical malpractice lawsuit in Washington.

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What type of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death or medical malpractice lawsuit?

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