What are the economic damages that can be claimed in a wrongful death case?

In North Carolina, the economic damages that can be claimed in a wrongful death case cover the costs associated with the deceased’s medical treatment, funeral and burial costs, and lost earnings. Medical costs cover the cost of care prior to the death and any medical bills incurred by the deceased. Funeral and burial costs include the costs of the deceased’s funeral, as well as a burial service and cemetery plot. Lost earnings relate to the wages the deceased would have earned over their lifetime if they hadn’t died. This is calculated based upon the deceased’s age, health, earning capacity, and potential future earnings. Economic damages related to the loss of a loved one may also include a claim for the loss of care, support, and companionship provided by the deceased. These losses can be both emotional and financial in nature. Emotional damages include sorrow, mental anguish, and loss of society and companionship. Financial damages cover the amount of support, care, and services the deceased provided to their family. This can include loss of income, assistance with household activities, and medical care. Additionally, North Carolina law allows for punitive damages in certain cases, such as those involving intentional acts or gross negligence. Punitive damages are meant to punish and discourage the wrongdoer from engaging in misconduct in the future and are typically awarded in addition to economic damages. In short, economic damages in a North Carolina wrongful death case can include the costs associated with medical treatment, funeral and burial costs, lost earnings, loss of companionship, and potential punitive damages.

What are the economic damages that can be claimed in a wrongful death case?

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