What Is the Difference Between Personal Injury & Wrongful Death Cases?

Personal injury cases and wrongful death cases are very similar because they both help hold a negligent and reckless party accountable. Our Phoenix car accident lawyers explain the difference between personal injury and wrongful death cases below.

How Are Personal Injury & Wrongful Death Cases Different?

Although both wrongful death and personal injury cases revolve around negligence and seeking compensation, they are quite different. A personal injury claim is filed by the party who has suffered the injury caused by the at-fault party. The person who suffered injuries can file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation and recover damages for the following:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Punitive damages (a form of punishment for the party responsible)

On the other hand, a wrongful death case is brought forward when a person’s negligent behavior was the cause of a person’s death. In a wrongful death case, the survivors of the victim can file a lawsuit to hold the responsible party accountable in civil court (not criminal court) and seek monetary compensation for:

• Funeral benefits

• Medical expenses

• Loss of future earnings

• Financial support

• Loss of companionship

Do I Need an Attorney to File a Wrongful Death or Personal Injury Lawsuit?

Yes, whether you are filing a wrongful death or personal injury case, you should have an experienced attorney on your side. Filing a personal injury or wrongful death case is a complex process. You need an experienced attorney to help you gather evidence and present a strong case to help you get the compensation you deserve. Although many cases are settled outside of the courtroom, you need an attorney who is ready to fight for you in case your claim goes to trial.

Experienced Arizona Criminal Defense Attorneys

Our team at Suzuki Law Offices focuses on helping those injured throughout Arizona get the compensation they deserve to help cover medical expenses and lost wages. We also help families seek monetary support after they have lost their loved ones in an accident that could have been prevented. Whether you’ve suffered injuries or you lost a loved one, our team is here to help you.