When a loved one dies in an accident of any type, the negligence of a third party may be to blame. While money won’t take the place of your loved one, seeking damages can help compensate you for the financial loss. Before you consult a wrongful death lawyer in Minnesota, it may help you to know more about this type of claim.
Who Can File a Claim?
Even though you might be related to the deceased, you may not be able to file a wrongful death claim. The personal representative chosen by the deceased in their will takes on this responsibility. The claim can only be filed on behalf of a spouse or children of the deceased.
How Long Do You Have to File?
As with any injury claim, there is a time limit imposed on how long you have to file a wrongful death claim. In Minnesota, the time limit is three years from the date of the death. However, the cause of the accident cannot have been more than six years. This condition applies to cases in which the accident left the individual in a coma or otherwise extended the time it took for the death to occur.
What Damages Can You Claim?
While a wrongful death lawyer in Minnesota can determine the specific damages you can claim, there are certain damages that are common in most cases. These include the funeral and burial expenses, any medical bills incurred prior to the death, and the loss of income. You may also be able to claim more damages based on a loss of consortium or companionship.
You should also keep in mind that you’re not obligated to hire any attorney following the initial consultation. If you don’t feel an attorney is right for your case, you can continue searching for a lawyer you do like.
