All unexpected deaths caused by the avoidable negligence of another are a tragedy. Under Connecticut law, the destruction of the gift of life caused by negligence is referred to as a wrongful death claim. This is a legal action based upon a law in Connecticut known as the wrongful death statute. When another person caused the events that resulted in your loved one’s death, our compassionate injury attorneys can help you seek justice.

Our legal professionals have decades of experience helping people like you seek justice on behalf of their deceased loved ones. A Torrington wrongful death lawyer can help you hold the at-fault party accountable. Reach out to D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, today to discuss your legal options. We are here for you during this challenging time.

How Connecticut Law Defines a Wrongful Death

While every death is a serious matter that impacts the decedent and their close friends and family—not every death can give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit. State law defines specific situations where such a claim is appropriate.

Connecticut state law says a wrongful death case is appropriate when the incident that resulted in death would have justified a personal injury lawsuit had the victim survived the incident. As a result, a death that occurs after a traffic accident, defective product injury, slip and fall, or medical malpractice may serve as the basis for a wrongful death claim. A Torrington wrongful death attorney can provide more information and collect the evidence necessary to place blame for your loved one’s death on the negligent, reckless or violent acts of others.

What Is the Purpose of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death case aims to recover compensation for the loss of the gift of life, and if your loved one is survived by a spouse, then also for the spouse’s loss of consortium which includes loss of companionship and affection. Connecticut General Statute § 52-555 lists the types of damages recoverable following a wrongful death. Potential financial recovery in these cases can include but is not limited to payments for:

  • Medical and funeral expenses;
  • Lost income;
  • Conscious pain and suffering prior to death;
  • Lost companionship for a spouse;

In order to file a wrongful death lawsuit, a fiduciary for your loved one’s estate must be appointed by the Probate Court. If there is a will, the fiduciary would be the Executor or Executrix named in the will. If there was no will, then the Probate Court will appoint someone, typically a close family member to be the fiduciary known as the Administrator or Administratrix. Contacting a lawyer can help you better understand the laws that control wrongful death cases in Connecticut.

A Torrington Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help You Move Forward

A wrongful death refers to a situation where a person’s death is the product of someone else’s negligence, recklessness or act of violence. If a decedent would have had the right to bring a personal injury case had they survived the event, their personal representative may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of the decedent.

A Torrington wrongful death lawyer at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC is here to help you through these difficult times. This can include investigating the cause of your loved one’s death and demanding that all responsible parties provide comprehensive compensation. Contact the team of attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, to learn more. All consultations are free and can be performed remotely or in-person.