What types of compensation are available for wrongful death?

In Massachusetts, individuals who have lost a loved one due to negligence or wrongful conduct may be able to receive financial compensation. This form of compensation is available through a wrongful death lawsuit. In Massachusetts, the wrongful death statute provides for two types of damages. The first type of damage is called compensatory damages and covers monetary losses like medical expenses, burial costs, and lost wages. These damages are awarded to the family of the deceased person to help ease the financial burden caused by the death. The second type of damage is called punitive damages and is awarded to punish the wrongdoer for their negligence or wrongful conduct. Punitive damages are typically larger sums of money than compensatory damages and can help the family recover psychologically, as well as financially. In addition to these damages, the family of the deceased may be able to receive compensation for any pain and suffering the deceased endured before passing away. This is a form of non-economic damages and cannot be calculated in terms of a dollar amount. Finally, parents may be able to receive compensation for the loss of companionship and support that their child provided. This is known as loss of consortium and is also a form of non-economic damages. All of these damages can be recovered through a wrongful death lawsuit, and in Massachusetts, the family of the deceased must file the claim within three years of the date of death.

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What types of compensation are available for wrongful death?

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