Losing someone to a preventable accident is devastating. At Maier Gutierrez & Associates, we represent Reno families seeking justice after the wrongful death of a loved one. A wrongful death lawyer from our firm will provide compassionate legal guidance while helping you pursue compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering. We know how difficult this time can be, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Call 775-406-8981 now for a free consultation with a wrongful death lawyer who will honor your loved one’s memory through action.
Damages You Can Recover in a Wrongful Death Case
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. When that loss is the result of someone else’s negligence, the emotional toll is often compounded by financial strain. While no amount of compensation can replace a lost family member, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help ease some of the burdens that follow. If you’re navigating this difficult path in Reno, understanding the kinds of damages available in a wrongful death case is an important step toward recovery.
The Purpose Behind Wrongful Death Compensation
Wrongful death claims aim to hold the at-fault party financially responsible for the consequences of their actions. In Nevada, the law allows certain family members and the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. These are meant to address not only the costs incurred because of the death but also the emotional suffering and loss of companionship experienced by loved ones.
Who Can File a Claim in Nevada
In Reno and throughout Nevada, the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit typically belongs to the deceased’s spouse, domestic partner, children, or, if none of these apply, the parents. The personal representative of the estate may also bring the claim on behalf of the beneficiaries. If the deceased did not leave behind any of these family members, other dependents or next of kin may be eligible.
Types of Damages That May Be Recovered
Every wrongful death case is unique, but several categories of damages are commonly pursued:
Medical Expenses Before Death
If the person who passed away received medical treatment before succumbing to their injuries, the cost of that care may be included in a claim. This can cover emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and any other medical interventions. These expenses are typically sought by the estate and not by individual family members.
Funeral and Burial Costs
Losing a loved one comes with sudden and sometimes overwhelming funeral expenses. Nevada law allows for the recovery of reasonable costs associated with burial or cremation services. These expenses can be included in the claim to prevent families from bearing this financial burden alone.
Loss of Financial Support
When the person who died was a family’s primary source of income, their sudden absence can create long-term financial instability. The loss of future earnings is often one of the largest components of a wrongful death claim. Calculating this amount involves considering the deceased’s age, employment history, salary, and potential career growth. Expert testimony is often used to project what they would have earned if they had lived a full working life.
Loss of Benefits
In some cases, the family may also seek damages for the loss of benefits the deceased would have provided, such as health insurance, pension plans, or retirement savings. This aspect of compensation can be especially important for families who were dependent on employer-sponsored coverage or long-term financial planning.
Loss of Companionship and Emotional Support
The emotional impact of losing a loved one can’t be measured with a calculator, but the law does recognize that these losses deserve compensation. Family members may recover damages for the loss of love, companionship, guidance, and support. For example, children who have lost a parent may be entitled to compensation for the emotional and developmental impact of that absence.
Pain and Suffering of the Survivors
In addition to the financial losses, Nevada allows surviving family members to seek damages for the emotional pain and suffering they have endured. While these damages are subjective, they are a crucial part of many wrongful death claims. An experienced attorney can help present this aspect of the case in a way that resonates with the court or insurance company.
Pain and Suffering of the Deceased Before Death
If the deceased experienced pain and suffering before passing, this may also be compensable. These damages are typically pursued by the estate rather than individual family members and can be a significant factor if the individual lived for a time after the injury occurred.
Loss of Household Services
In some households, the deceased may not have been the main source of income but contributed in other valuable ways, such as childcare, cleaning, or caring for elderly relatives. The cost of replacing these services is often considered a recoverable expense in wrongful death claims.
How Damages Are Proven
Proving the full extent of damages in a wrongful death case often requires detailed documentation and expert analysis. Medical records, wage statements, tax returns, and receipts can help establish the economic impact. To support claims of emotional distress and loss of companionship, statements from therapists, family members, and friends may be introduced. In many cases, a personal injury lawyer will work with economists, actuaries, and other specialists to present a clear and compelling case.
Why Legal Help Is Important
Wrongful death cases are rarely straightforward. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame. A personal injury attorney with experience handling wrongful death claims in Nevada can help protect your interests and ensure that all possible damages are considered. They can also manage communication with insurers, file the necessary legal paperwork, and help you understand what to expect at each stage of the process.
Timelines and Filing Deadlines
Nevada law places a limit on how long you have to file a wrongful death claim. The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of death. Failing to act within that time can result in losing the right to seek compensation. This makes it critical to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after a loss.
Pursuing a wrongful death claim is about more than money. It’s a way to seek accountability, to honor your loved one’s life, and to protect your family’s future. Understanding the types of damages available can give you clarity during an otherwise confusing and painful time. While no lawsuit can undo what happened, securing fair compensation can help bring a measure of stability and peace of mind as you move forward.
Find Strength with a Wrongful Death Attorney in Reno
Losing someone unexpectedly is never easy, especially when it was preventable. At Maier Gutierrez & Associates, our Reno wrongful death attorneys offer compassionate legal support to grieving families. We’re here to help you pursue justice, accountability, and financial compensation to ease the burden of your loss. A wrongful death attorney from our team will listen, investigate, and take action on your behalf. While we cannot undo the tragedy, we can help you move forward with clarity and purpose. Call 775-406-8981 today for a free consultation with a wrongful death attorney who truly cares.