If a loved one has died as the result of a wrongful act, Ohio law permits an action for wrongful death against the person or entity that caused the death. Wrongful death actions in Ohio are governed by statute: RC 2125.01 and 2125.02. Here are the basics for these negligence cases.
Who can bring a wrongful death lawsuit?
Only the “personal representative” of the decedent (person who died) can bring a wrongful death claim. If the decedent had a will, the will should identify an executor. If the decedent did not have a will, the probate court has the authority to appoint a personal representative. In this case, the personal representative is known as an administrator. Wrongful death lawsuits can help surviving family members. Legal action can benefit the surviving spouse, children and parents of the decedent, as they provide compensation for such damages as loss of companionship. Other next of kin can also recover, but they do not have a presumption of damages enjoyed by the immediate family members. This essentially means that if a next of kin wishes to recover in the case, s/he must testify at trial, whereas immediate family members need not testify (since their damages are presumed).
What types of compensation are recoverable in a wrongful death action?
There are five categories of damages:
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of services
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of potential inheritance
- Mental anguish
The first, second and fourth items are considered economic losses (usually requiring the testimony of an economic expert); the third and fifth are considered noneconomic losses and do not require expert testimony.
What about the deceased person’s pain before s/he died?
These damages are also recoverable and are called “survivorship” damages. The wrongful death statutes pertain only to wrongful death damages. However, if the decedent had any conscious pain and suffering before s/he died, the complaint needs to include “survivorship” losses.
How long do I have to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit?
Wrongful death cases have a two-year statute of limitations (even if caused by medical malpractice, which normally carries a one-year statute). Whether the death of your family member is due to a motor vehicle accident, medical malpractice or any other cause, these principles apply. Also, the amount a jury can award in a wrongful death case is not capped by statute; the Ohio Constitution prohibits caps in wrongful death cases.
Personal Injury Attorneys For Wrongful Death Cases
At Beausay & Nichols in Columbus, our wrongful death lawyers have helped many families through the wrongful death legal process after a loved one is lost suddenly. If you have lost a loved one as the result of someone’s negligence, contact us for a free consultation. For an experienced Ohio wrongful death attorney, contact us via email or call our law firm at 614-529-3476.
