Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in New York

Jason B. Kessler • Sep 29, 2023

Losing a loved one due to someone else's negligence is a devastating experience, and it can lead to emotional, financial, and psychological trauma for the family. If you lost a family member due to someone else's actions, you have the right to seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim in New York. In this blog post, we will discuss the various damages available in a New York wrongful death claim, the statute of limitations for filing a claim, and how an attorney can help you through the process.



1. Types of Damages Available in a New York Wrongful Death Claim

When filing a wrongful death claim, you can seek the following types of damages:

- Economic damages: This covers the financial losses incurred by the family members due to the victim's death, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost earnings.


- Non-economic damages: This includes the emotional and psychological losses suffered by the family members due to the victim's death, such as loss of companionship, mental anguish, and pain and suffering.


- Punitive damages: In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages if the responsible party's actions were particularly malicious or reckless.


2. Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of death. If you fail to file your claim within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your losses.


3. How an Attorney Can Help You

Suffering from the loss of a loved one can be an intense and emotionally charged experience, and filing a wrongful death claim can be a complicated and technical process. An experienced wrongful death attorney can help you navigate the legal process while providing emotional support and guidance. An attorney will handle filing the claim, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary.


4. When to File a Wrongful Death Claim

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence, it's important to act quickly and take legal action as soon as possible. Filing a wrongful death claim can provide you with the financial security you need to cover your expenses and losses while finding justice for your loved one. Consult an attorney as soon as possible to understand your legal rights and options.


Losing a loved one due to negligence is a tragic and overwhelming experience, but you don't have to go through it alone. Filing a wrongful death claim can provide you with the financial and emotional support you need to move forward and find closure. It's important to understand the types of damages available, the statute of limitations, and how an attorney can help you through the legal process. Contact a wrongful death attorney today to learn more about your options.


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