Losing someone you love is one of the hardest experiences a family can face. When that loss happens because of someone else’s careless or intentional actions, state law in Oklahoma allows you to seek compensation through a wrongful death claim. These cases aim to provide both financial stability and a measure of justice for surviving family members.
Below is an overview of how compensation works in wrongful death lawsuits in Tulsa and how an experienced attorney can help ensure your family receives the full value of your claim.
What Types of Compensation Are Available in a Tulsa Wrongful Death Claim?
Oklahoma law separates wrongful death damages into two broad categories: compensation for the losses suffered by the deceased person and compensation for the surviving family. Together, these damages can help ease both the financial and emotional impact of the death.
Economic damages cover the financial contributions the deceased would have provided had they lived. These may include:
- Medical bills related to the fatal injury or illness
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Loss of household services and benefits, such as health insurance
Non-economic damages address the personal and emotional toll that the death has caused. These often include:
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before their death
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and care for the surviving spouse or children
- Mental anguish and grief are endured by family members
In rare cases, punitive damages may also be available. These are not tied to specific financial losses; rather, they are awarded to punish the defendant for especially reckless or intentional behavior (such as drunk driving). Before any compensation or punitive damages can be awarded, negligence must be proven. Establishing who was at fault is a key part of every wrongful death case and determines what damages your family may recover.
Who Can Recover Compensation in a Wrongful Death Case?
Oklahoma’s wrongful death laws specify who has the right to recover damages and how those funds are distributed. Generally, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the lawsuit, but the compensation is meant to benefit the surviving family.
- The surviving spouse can recover damages for loss of companionship, emotional distress, and financial support.
- The children may receive compensation for the loss of parental guidance and care.
- The estate can recover medical expenses, funeral costs, and lost earnings up to the date of death.
- If there is no surviving spouse or child, the deceased’s parents or other heirs may be eligible to recover compensation.
Working with an experienced wrongful death attorney in Tulsa ensures that your claim is filed correctly and that all of the eligible beneficiaries are included. It’s important to act fast; Oklahoma’s statute of limitations generally gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Tulsa Wrongful Death Attorneys
Losing a family member is one of the most difficult experiences imaginable. If negligence or wrongdoing played a role, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Gorospe Law Group can guide you through the legal process from start to finish, including the possibility of taking your case to trial if needed.
We have 20+ years of experience and have recovered millions for Oklahoma families to date. Contact our wrongful death lawyers today for a free initial consultation.