Source: http://coloradowrongfuldeathlawyer.com/colorado_wrongful_death_damages.asp
Timestamp: 2019-04-20 02:55:10+00:00

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Colorado law provides that you may recover damages to the extent a jury finds it fair and just in relation to the injury that resulted from the decedent’s death. C.R.S. § 13-21-203. In addition, recovery for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and emotional distress is limited to $250,000, unless the wrongful death is due to a felonious killing like murder or manslaughter. C.R.S. § 13-21-203. In addition, Colorado law provides that you may choose, as an alternative to an award of non-economic damages, to elect to recover a "soliatium" in the amount of $50,000 on top of economic damages suffered. C.R.S. § 13-21-203.5. A soliatium is a separate award for damages like loss of companionship, consortium, pain and suffering, and mental distress, and is awarded on finding a defendant's liability for the wrongful death, in lieu of proving non-economic damages in a trial. The Colorado Wrongful Death Statute limits recovery to compensatory damages, and does not permit recovery of exemplary or punitive damages. Beikmann v. International Playtex, Inc., 658 F.Supp. 255 (1987).
Calculating damages is a complex process involving multiple factors. Some factors include (1) how dependent the plaintiff was on the decedent; (2) the nature of the relationship with the decedent; (3) the anticipated lifespan of the decedent, (4) the anticipated earnings and other benefits of the decedent, and (5) the presence of any comparative fault. Often, determining the appropriate amount of damages for a particular element can be difficult. For example, when addressing damages for loss of companionship, a jury must attempt to put a price tag on the emotional loss you suffered from the decedent death.
In wrongful death suits, more than one family member may be a beneficiary to an award amount. So how are damages distributed? Under Colorado law, the amount recovered is distributed in proportion to the pecuniary damages sustained by each particular individual. Good v. A.B. Chance Co., 39 Colo. App. 70, 565 P.2d 217 (1977). The amount recovered does not become a part of the estate's assets. C.R.S. § 13-21-201.
In all matters involving Colorado wrongful death law it is essential that measures be taken promptly to preserve evidence, investigate the accident in question, and to file a lawsuit prior to the deadline imposed by the Colorado wrongful death statute of limitations. If a loved one has been a victim of wrongful death in Colorado, contact us now, CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A SIMPLE CASE FORM. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if we agree to accept your case, we will work on a contingent fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds. Don’t delay! You may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but a lawsuit must be filed before the Colorado wrongful death statute of limitations expires.

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