The sudden loss of a loved one is always heartbreaking, but when that loss occurs due to someone else’s negligence, the emotional toll can be even greater.
Unfortunately, unanticipated expenses often follow a wrongful death, adding to your grief and stress during an already difficult time. Understanding these costs and knowing your options can help during this challenging period.
Funeral and medical expenses
The immediate costs following a wrongful death typically include funeral and medical expenses, both of which can be substantial.
The cost of funerals and burials in California can range from a few hundred dollars for direct cremation to more than $10,00 for traditional burials. Additionally, medical bills for treatments and care before the passing can lead to additional financial burdens you might not anticipate.
Lost income and employment benefits
One of the most impactful long-term consequences of a wrongful death is the loss of income and benefits.
If the deceased was a primary breadwinner, their sudden absence can leave a devastating gap in the family’s finances. This includes not only the loss of regular wages but also any health insurance, retirement benefits and other employment-related income that the family depended on.
Survivor healthcare expenses
The trauma of a sudden wrongful death can lead to chronic and sometimes severe mental health problems like depression and persistent sadness. It also increases the risk of developing dangerous health issues like heart disease and hypertension.
Proper medical and psychiatric care may be necessary but is often prohibitively costly.
Financial compensation may not be your focus, but it is critical to recognize how unexpected costs can impact your family. A wrongful death claim can provide essential financial relief, ushering in a stable future while providing a measure of justice for your lost loved one.