What You Need to Know About Wrongful Death Settlements in Rhode Island

Jared Tomassi • October 26, 2023

Losing a loved one is one of the most tragic and emotional experiences a person can go through. It is even more devastating when their death was caused by the negligence of someone else. In Rhode Island, if you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or intentional harm of another person, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In this blog post, we will discuss the average settlement for wrongful death lawsuits in Rhode Island and how an attorney can help you during this difficult time.



Loss of wages:

One of the factors that is taken into consideration when determining the settlement for a wrongful death lawsuit is the loss of wages and future earnings of the deceased. This can include the income they would have earned had they lived, as well as any benefits they would have received. A variety of factors are considered in the calculation of these damages, including the age and career of the deceased and their life expectancy based on medical tables.


Emotional loss:

In addition to the loss of wages, the emotional pain and suffering of the surviving family members is also considered in the determination of the settlement. This includes the pain and emotional distress they have suffered as a result of the loss of their loved one. Additionally, the compensation can be awarded for the loss of the deceased's love and companionship. The amount awarded for emotional damages can vary significantly from case to case depending on the unique circumstances of the case.


Punitive damages:

In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded in a wrongful death lawsuit. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant for their willful misconduct or gross negligence that caused the death of the deceased. These damages are intended to deter the defendant from engaging in similar actions in the future and to send a message to others who may be engaging in similar behavior.


How can an attorney help me?

During this upsetting and difficult time, it is essential to have a skilled and compassionate attorney to guide you through the process of filing a wrongful death lawsuit. An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies or defendants to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation allowed by law. An attorney's expertise can be crucial in obtaining the necessary evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony to help you build a strong case in court.


Wrongful death is a devastating experience, but a skilled attorney can help you seek justice and compensation for your loss. The settlement for a wrongful death lawsuit in Rhode Island varies from case to case and can depend on several factors such as the deceased's age, life expectancy, income, and the emotional loss suffered by the surviving family members. With the assistance of an accomplished attorney, you can maximize your compensation for the damages and losses you have suffered. Contact an experienced wrongful death attorney today, so you can obtain the compensation you are entitled to and achieve closure for yourself and your family.

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