A wrongful death is a term used when a person is killed because of another individual or entity’s negligence or misconduct. When this type of death happens, family members and dependents of the deceased may be able to bring a civil suit against the party responsible for the death and pursue compensation for the losses they suffered. Yet, to figure out whether you qualify to bring this legal suit, it is important to understand Arizona’s wrongful death statute.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Suit in Arizona?
In Arizona, only certain parties are able to bring a wrongful death suit. These parties include the following:
- Surviving spouse
- Surviving children
- Surviving parents
- Guardians of the deceased
A personal representative of the decedent’s estate may also be able to sue for a wrongful death, but the compensation they receive will go to the surviving family members. The parties that can be appointed as a personal representative include:
- Nominated executors
- A surviving spouse
- Other devisees of the decedent
- Other surviving heirs
- The Department of Veterans’ Services
- Any creditor of the deceased
- Public fiduciaries
However, to better understand whether you can bring a wrongful death suit in Arizona, consider going over your legal questions and concerns with an experienced personal injury attorney. These legal professionals can review the appropriate statutes, examine your relationship with the decedent, and help determine your legal options.
The Financial Compensation You Can Pursue
The amount of financial compensation you can pursue in a Arizona wrongful death claim will usually depend on the circumstances. However, in general, the decedent’s loved ones may be entitled to payment for the following losses:
- Out-of-pocket medical bills that the deceased incurred before they passed away from their injuries
- Expenses related to replacing or repairing damaged property from the accident
- Funeral and burial expenses
- The value of lost income or the benefits the deceased would have earned had they not passed away
- Loss of love, affection, comfort, guidance, and companionship the deceased provided
However, to obtain these monetary damages, the decedent’s loved ones must file their claim before time runs out. That is why discussing the matter with a skilled personal injury attorney as soon as possible is critical in ensuring you have enough time to file your legal case.
Contact Territorial Law, LLC, Today and Find Out How Our Legal Team Can Help You
If you lost a loved one in a Yuma accident due to another person’s wrongful action, just know you do not have to take on this devastating ordeal alone. Instead, when you work with an experienced Yuma personal injury attorney from Territorial Law, LLC, you can have dedicated legal professionals fighting for your rights and helping you obtain the justice you and your family deserve.
That is why do not wait any longer. Contact Territorial Law, LLC today to schedule a free case consultation, or call us at 928-766-4705 and let us help you figure out what legal options you have.