After the accidental death of a loved one, it can be difficult to focus on the future. During this difficult time, however, you should take time to speak with an experienced Rhode Island wrongful death lawyer concerning your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for your financial losses, and in some cases, for noneconomic losses such as loss of consortium.
Helping Survivors After Fatal Vehicle Accidents
After a fatal motorcycle accident, family members of the deceased should discuss their legal options with an attorney. They may be entitled to compensation for their economic and noneconomic losses.
When you choose Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum to represent you, we will act quickly to initiate legal action and begin building your case. You and your family can focus on dealing with your grief as well as practical matters.
Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum will undertake a comprehensive legal effort to investigate the motorcycle accident and document the effect that the loss of your loved one has had on your family. The first step will be to retain the services of an accident reconstruction professional who will investigate the accident and determine precisely how it happened. Our lawyers will examine insurance coverage issues to identify potential sources of compensation. We will also place a value on your financial losses and compensable noneconomic damages for inclusion in your claim. Often, this involves an economist or actuarial specialist who can place a value on the income your loved one would have earned, had he or she lived. Our goal will be to obtain the best possible jury award or settlement for you.
Minimum $350,000 Recovery for Wrongful Death Claims
Rhode Island's wrongful death law allows for a minimum recovery of $350,000 in successful wrongful death cases. If family members can prove that negligence caused their loved one's car accident fatality, they can recover $350,000 and, oftentimes, much more.
This includes damages for:
- Medical and funeral expenses
- Lost income, which takes into account the amount of money the deceased would have made during his or her life
- The pain and suffering experienced by the deceased as a result of the accident, and the survivors, as a result of the death
- Loss of companionship, protection and care
Who Can Bring a Rhode Island Wrongful Death Claim?
Under Rhode Island law, close family members, including spouses, parents and children may bring wrongful death claims. The law recently changed to allow adult children to make a claim for the loss of their parents.