Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Recovery of Non-Economic Damages

When pursuing a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania, understanding the recovery of
non-economic damages is crucial. Non-economic damages encompass the intangible
losses that surviving family members endure following the untimely death of a loved one
due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct. These damages aim to compensate
for losses such as companionship, comfort, and emotional distress experienced by the
survivors, which are often the most devastating aspects of a wrongful death case.
As a Pennsylvania wrongful death lawyer, navigating the complexities of non-economic
damages is essential in advocating for the victims’ families to ensure they receive the
full measure of justice they deserve.

Economic Damages Obtainable in a Pennsylvania Wrongful
Death

Economic damages in wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania are quantifiable financial
losses incurred as a result of the deceased’s passing. These damages typically cover
the tangible, measurable losses that can be directly calculated and documented.
Economic damages may include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and
burial costs, loss of the deceased’s expected earnings, and loss of other financial
contributions to the household.
By focusing on these calculable losses, Pennsylvania wrongful death economic
damages seek to alleviate the financial burdens on surviving family members, ensuring
they can maintain their living and financial stability after losing their loved one.
Understanding economic and non-economic damages is crucial for providing
comprehensive legal representation and ensuring fair compensation in wrongful death
cases.

Pennsylvania Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages in a Pennsylvania wrongful death case are challenging to
quantify but equally important as economic damages. Examples include loss of
companionship and society, which refers to the emotional support, love, and affection
the deceased provided to their family. Survivors may also experience significant
emotional distress and mental anguish due to the death, affecting their mental well-
being profoundly.

Other examples include loss of guidance for children who are deprived of parental
advice and support, as well as loss of comfort in cases where the deceased played a
central role in maintaining family harmony. These intangible losses significantly impact
the lives of surviving family members and are critical components in assessing fair
compensation in wrongful death claims.

Challenges in Proving Damages

Proving damages in a Pennsylvania wrongful death case, particularly non-economic
damages, presents several challenges. The subjective nature of non-economic losses,
like emotional distress or loss of companionship, makes it difficult to assign a definite
monetary value. These are inherently personal and vary significantly from one case to
another, often requiring expert testimony to substantiate the claims and illustrate the
depth of the loss.
Additionally, surviving family members might struggle to articulate their emotional pain
and suffering in a court setting, adding another layer of complexity to the process. While
economic damages are more straightforward due to their tangible nature, plaintiffs must
still provide thorough documentation and evidence of the financial contributions and
potential earnings lost due to the deceased’s passing. Robust legal strategy and
detailed preparation are essential to effectively navigate these challenges and ensure
the compensation reflects the full scope of the family’s loss.

Travis Law Firm: Supporting Families in Wrongful Death Cases

At Travis Law Firm, we stand by Pennsylvania families who have lost loved ones due to
someone else’s negligence. To understand how you can seek compensation, reach out
to us at (814) 277-2222 to arrange a complimentary consultation. We’re here to review
your case, address any concerns, and offer a customized evaluation of how best to
secure compensation for your family. You may also contact us through our online form.
Our foremost commitment is to achieve equitable compensation for your loss.