Compared to a personal injury claim, a wrongful death lawsuit offers slightly different damage types. You may be able to receive financial compensation for:nMedical expenses incurred by the deceased prior to death as a result of the accident and injurynFuneral expenses nBurial expenses nThe deceased's lost wages and benefits, including future incomenLoss of household services, such as child care, that the deceased providednLoss of companionship and guidance of the deceased (loss of consortium)nEmotional distress over the lossnProperty damagenWrongful death claims do not generally allow punitive damages, which are intended to punish the liable party. This is the case regardless of how malicious or reprehensible the defendant’s conduct was. There are only two exceptions:nWhen the deceased suffered an economic loss before death, a survivor action may be filed on behalf of the estate. Examples of such losses include medical bills and lost wages. If the person died immediately, pursuing this option becomes more difficult.nYou may be eligible for punitive damages if the death of a loved one was due to felony homicide. This means that such damages are available to a plaintiff if the jury in a criminal trial finds that the decedent’s death was an act of intentional violence. nYour Los Angeles accidental death lawyer can advise you on whether pursuing punitive damages may be appropriate for your case.