Average Wrongful Death Settlement in Oklahoma [2024 Updated]

Anyone who has experienced the sudden death of a beloved family member understands how unfortunate that situation truly is, especially if the death was caused by the wrongful actions or negligence of another individual. The average wrongful death settlement in Oklahoma can vary, depending on the specific details of the case. No matter the size of the potential settlement, surviving family members should file a wrongful death claim if they lost a loved one.

Examples of Wrongful Death Accidents

There are several examples of incidents that can be classified as a wrongful death. A few of the most common cases include:

• Medical malpractice. Medical professionals are highly trained individuals, but they are not perfect. These healthcare providers can make mistakes and if those mistakes lead to the death of an individual, then a wrongful death claim may be filed. Examples could include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, failure to diagnose, negligence, or prescription errors.
• Defective products. If an individual dies because of a defective product, then the manufacturer of that product could be held responsible. Manufacturers spend so much time testing products and providing warning labels in part because of product liability. Examples could include toxic foods, pharmaceutical products, unsafe products for children, etc.
• Auto accident. If a person loses their life during an automobile accident, then a wrongful death claim could be filed against the negligent driver. There are several factors to consider in this scenario, such as the degree of negligence, medical expenses, amount of insurance, number of parties involved, etc. This type of case often requires the help of an attorney to sort through.
• Workplace accidents. Accidents that occur in the workplace that lead to a death could fall under a wrongful death claim.

Who Can Be Awarded Damages?

Typically, in a wrongful death case, only surviving family members are eligible to receive compensation for damages. Eligible family members include:

• Spouses
• Children
• Parents

Evidence That May Be Collected

In every wrongful death case, there is a certain amount of evidence that needs to be collected. Common forms of evidence can include:

• The health and medical history of the deceased
• The death certificate
• The occupation and earning capacity of the deceased at the time of death
• Burial costs
• Accident report
• Police report
• Witness statements

FAQs

Q: What Are General Damages for Wrongful Death?

A: General damages for a wrongful death can include medical expenses, burial expenses, lost wages, and loss of companionship. The surviving family members could receive compensation for all these damages.

In some Oklahoma wrongful death cases, the court could award punitive damages to the surviving family members. Punitive damages are used as a means to punish the responsible party and discourage them from engaging in any similar actions in the future. For more details regarding the types of damages that could be recovered, you should speak with an attorney.

Q: How Are Wrongful Death Settlements Calculated?

A: Wrongful death settlements are calculated based on several factors, including:

• The age and life expectancy of the deceased
• The state of their health
• Their income at the time of death
• Medical expenses
• Funeral expenses

These will all be factored into the settlement calculation. If the deceased individual was the head of a house and had multiple young dependents, then a larger settlement amount may be awarded. Dependents who unexpectedly lose their provider to the negligence of someone else deserve to be compensated and cared for.

Q: What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Oklahoma?

A: A wrongful death claim in Oklahoma is a legal action to recover damages after a death that’s caused by the actions of another party. The actions of the responsible party are typically negligent or reckless. The surviving family members of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party in pursuit of financial compensation for their losses.

No amount of money can replace the life of the deceased, but financial compensation can go a long way toward sustaining the standard of living of the surviving family members.

Q: What Is the Purpose of a Wrongful Death Claim?

A: The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to allow surviving family members an opportunity to seek financial compensation for their losses. Family members who suddenly lose the life of a loved one deserve to be compensated for that loss. A wrongful death claim can also help hold responsible parties accountable for their wrongful actions. An experienced Oklahoma wrongful death attorney can help you file a wrongful death claim and pursue the justice that you and your family deserve.

Q: Is It Hard to Prove a Wrongful Death?

A: It can be hard to prove a wrongful death, depending on the circumstances of the case. The burden of proof falls on the claimant or the surviving family members. Proving a wrongful death can be complex. It often requires a qualified and experienced wrongful death attorney who can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong enough case to get you the compensation you deserve. This process can take countless hours of work and several weeks or months to complete, depending on the cooperation level of all parties involved.

Attorneys Who Can Help

Any time there is a death of a loved one, it is an extremely sad and gut-wrenching experience, especially if the death is sudden and unexpected. If the death was caused by the wrongful actions of someone else, then the surviving family members should contact an attorney who can help them file a wrongful death claim. It’s important to engage an attorney as soon as possible. They can help answer any questions and advise you through the Oklahoma legal process.

The legal team at 222 Injury Lawyers has the experience and acumen necessary to make a difference in your case. No case is too small for our firm. Our wrongful death lawyers are dedicated and willing to aid individuals all across Oklahoma. We have ample experience in wrongful death cases, and we can help you get the fair compensation you deserve. Allow us to handle the legal aspects of the case while you grieve over the loss of your loved one. Contact us today to see how we can assist you.