Boston Wrongful Death Attorneys
Not just another personal injury case
Unlike most personal injury claims, wrongful death claims in Massachusetts are governed by a statute rather than the common law of negligence. Massachusetts G.L. c. 229 dictates who may bring a claim for the wrongful death of another person, and specifies what damages can be recovered. Because these rights are created by statute, a wrongful death claim is not like a regular personal injury claim. The attorneys at Milligan Coughlin have practical knowledge dealing with G.L. c. 229.
Time is of the essence
An action for negligence causing the death of a person must be brought by the deceased's executor or administrator within three years from the date of death, or within three years from date when the executor or administrator knew or should have known of the factual basis for the cause of action. You should consult an experienced wrongful death attorney immediately if you believe that a family member's death was the result of negligence.
Massachusetts Fatal Accident Lawyers
Wrongful death cases commonly involve a death caused by:
- Car, bus, train, or airplane accidents
- Defective or dangerous products such as heavy machinery or prescription medication
- Medical malpractice
- Industrial Accidents
- On the job accidents
Taking care of the family
A deceased surviving spouse and children, or next of kin, are entitled to recover damages for wrongful death. The damages allowed by statute include the monetary value of the decedent to the persons entitled to receive the damages recovered, including, but not limited to, compensation for the loss of the reasonably expected net income, services, protection, care, assistance, society, companionship, comfort, guidance, counsel, and advice of the decedent to the persons entitled to the damages recovered. Punitive damages in the amount of not less than $5,000 may also be available in cases of gross negligence or recklessness.
The personal injury attorneys at Milligan Coughlin are available for a free consultation. If you've lost a loved one due to a fatal accident, call us at 617-500-3694 or contact us via email.