Facts About A Wrongful Death Settlement

A wrongful death settlement is a good start to compensate a person for the untimely, unnecessary death of a loved one. If death could’ve been avoided, it’s important to seek justice for the survivors of the deceased. First, there are certain facts about seeking a wrongful death settlement in Maryland that must be known.

NO TAXES

This type of settlement is not taxable and can be used to compensate for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other expenses related to another person’s death. However, certain medical expenses and punitive damages need to be taxed and reported on a tax return.

ELIGIBILITY VARIES

Maryland laws indicate the type of individuals who can sue for wrongful death. A spouse or estate executor can file for wrongful death benefits but not a distant relative or friend of the deceased. In most states, immediate family members, including parents, spouses, children, and domestic partners are eligible to file. In some states, siblings and grandfathers can file along with business partners who suffered financial losses due to wrongful death.

NOT ANYONE CAN BE SUED

Nearly any individual, company, or organization can be sued in a wrongful death lawsuit. The plaintiff must show that the defendant showed negligence that led to the person’s fatal injury.

THE BASICS OF THE CLAIM PROCESS

The process of filing a claim is not the same for every type of personal injury. Every state varies in the types of people who can file and the rights and duties that they are given. Doing your research is the first part of filing a wrongful death lawsuit.