What two kinds of damages can you claim in a wrongful death suit?

Under New Mexico law, the personal representative of your loved one’s estate can bring a claim against a business or individual in civil court. They will then distribute the proceeds from any successful lawsuits among the closest family members of the deceased individual.

There are rules that apply to the damages you can seek in such a claim. State law allows for a wrongful death claim to include two specific kinds of damages. What can you hold someone accountable for after a loved one’s death?

1.Compensatory damages

Most people think of compensatory damages when they think of a wrongful death lawsuit. Those directly affected by a tragedy can take a business or individual court and request compensation based on the financial losses incurred.

Hospital bills, funeral expenses and even property damage losses related to the incident can all add to the total amount of compensatory damages sought in a wrongful death lawsuit. Lost future income can also be a major contributor to the total value of compensatory damages.