Proving Negligence in a Wrongful Death Case
Proving negligence or willful behavior is crucial in seeking accountability and justice following the wrongful loss of a loved one. Our firm's Pendleton, Indiana, wrongful death attorneys are dedicated to thoroughly investigating the specifics of each case. We gather and analyze relevant documentation, such as police reports, autopsy results, medical records, and any available photos or videos from the site. We conduct in-depth interviews to collect detailed remarks. Physical aspects are evaluated with the help of accident reconstruction experts and other specialists. By making a clear timeline of the events that led up to and directly caused the death, we can find out if any reasonable standards of care were broken.Pursuing Maximum Damages Allowed
While Indiana places limits on specific damage categories, we are committed to obtaining every dollar the law permits. No matter the circumstances, our clients can trust we will fight relentlessly to maximize the financial recovery owed as a result of another's proven fault. The amounts recovered will vary based on the specifics of the case and the deceased individual. An attorney can properly evaluate the damages potential specific to your loved one's wrongful death. Here are the types of damages that can typically be collected in a wrongful death case in Indiana:Medical and Funeral Expenses
This includes costs directly associated with the decedent's injuries and death, such as ambulance transports, hospital bills, doctors' fees, and burial or cremation costs.Lost Earnings and Benefits
If the deceased was employed or owned a business, you may be able to recover the estimated future income and employment benefits they would have earned over their work life.Loss of Love and Companionship
Damages can be pursued to compensate family members for the intrinsic losses suffered due to their relative's death. This can also include loss of guidance.Loss of Services
Compensation is available to family members who lost homemaking services, childcare, yardwork, repairs, and other household contributions provided by the decedent.Property Damage
Reimbursement for destroyed property or assets can potentially be included if it's a direct result of the wrongful death incident.Damage Caps in Indiana
Indiana law places certain limits on the damages that can be recovered for wrongful death lawsuits and claims, depending on the circumstances of the deceased individual. Some things to consider:- If the victim was a spouse or parent, there is no statutory cap on the total damages award.
- Children under 20 years old are similarly unlimited.
- If the decedent was an unmarried adult without dependent children, non-economic damages are restricted to $300,000