When a loved one dies because of another person’s negligence or wrongful conduct, surviving family members may be able to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. Missouri law allows certain damages to address both the financial and personal losses that result from an unexpected death.
While no amount of money can replace a family member, a wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability and hold the responsible party accountable. Understanding the types of damages that may be available is often one of the first questions families ask after a tragic loss.
What Damages Are Available in a Missouri Wrongful Death Case?
Missouri wrongful death claims are intended to compensate surviving family members for losses resulting from the death. The available damages depend on the circumstances of the case, the relationship between family members and the deceased, and the evidence presented.
Compensation may include both economic losses, which can be more readily calculated, and non-economic losses, which reflect the personal impact of losing a loved one.
Common categories of damages include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
- Lost wages and future financial support
- Loss of services provided by the deceased
- Loss of companionship, guidance, care, and support
- Pain, suffering, and other damages permitted under Missouri law
Every case is unique, and the damages available in one wrongful death claim may differ significantly from those in another.
Can Families Recover Funeral and Burial Expenses?
Yes. Funeral and burial costs are often among the most immediate financial burdens families face after a wrongful death.
These expenses can include funeral services, burial costs, cremation expenses, cemetery fees, and related costs associated with laying a loved one to rest. Documentation such as invoices, receipts, and contracts may be used to support these claims.
Although these damages may not represent the largest portion of a wrongful death case, they can help relieve some of the financial strain placed on surviving family members.
Can Lost Income and Financial Support Be Recovered?
In many cases, yes. When a person who contributed financially to a household dies unexpectedly, the impact can extend far into the future. A wrongful death claim may seek compensation for the income, benefits, and financial support the deceased would likely have provided had the death not occurred.
Courts and insurance companies often consider factors such as:
- The person’s age
- Employment history
- Earning capacity
- Career trajectory
- Life expectancy
For some families, the loss of future income can represent a substantial portion of a wrongful death claim.
What About the Loss of a Parent’s or Spouse’s Guidance and Support?
Not all losses can be measured through bills or paychecks.
The death of a spouse, parent, or child often creates profound personal losses that affect every aspect of family life. Missouri law recognizes that surviving family members may suffer the loss of companionship, comfort, instruction, guidance, care, and emotional support.
For example, children may lose a parent’s mentorship and daily involvement in their lives. A surviving spouse may lose the companionship and partnership that existed throughout the marriage. These losses are real, even though they cannot be calculated with the same precision as financial damages.
Because every family relationship is different, the value assigned to these losses varies from case to case.
Who Receives Compensation in a Missouri Wrongful Death Case?
Missouri law establishes a hierarchy of individuals who may bring a claim. Depending on the circumstances, eligible parties may include:
- A surviving spouse
- Children or descendants
- Parents of the deceased
- Other family members in certain situations
The specific facts of the case determine who may participate in the claim and how any recovery may be distributed.
Because these situations can become complicated, especially when multiple family members are involved, it is important to understand how Missouri’s wrongful death laws apply to your family’s circumstances.
How Is the Value of a Wrongful Death Claim Determined?
There is no standard amount that applies to every wrongful death case.
The value of a claim depends on many factors, including the deceased person’s age, health, earning history, family relationships, and the circumstances surrounding the death. The strength of the evidence and the available insurance coverage may also influence the outcome.
While families often want a quick estimate of what a case may be worth, meaningful evaluations generally require a thorough review of the facts and losses involved.
An attorney can help assess potential damages, identify available sources of compensation, and determine what evidence may strengthen a claim.
Seeking Accountability After a Tragic Loss
The loss of a loved one can leave families facing emotional and financial challenges they never expected. While a wrongful death claim cannot undo the harm that has been done, it may provide compensation for the losses a family has suffered and help hold negligent parties accountable.
If you have questions about a wrongful death claim in Missouri, Privette Law Office can help you explore your legal options. Call today to schedule a consultation.