There are certain elements that must be present to prove a wrongful death occurred. These elements include:
The death was caused by someone else who intended to cause harm or acted in a negligent manner
The death impacted survivors who qualify for compensation for their loss
The death created monetary damages to a family member or close relatives
When the beneficiaries can prove these elements, qualifying family members may receive damages for medical and funeral expenses, loss of affection or companionship, loss the deceased person’s future earnings, and possibly punitive damages if the death was caused by a wanton or reckless disregard for the rights and safety of others by a defendant whose intoxication while operating a motor vehicle was a cause in fact of the resulting death. A Terrebonne Parish wrongful death lawyer can search for evidence to prove who is responsible for the death.