When you lose a loved one, the grief can be overwhelming. Added to the pain of your loss is the stress of dealing with legal matters. If your loved one died due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation. A wrongful death lawyer can help you get the money you need to cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and other costs related to your loss. Contact us today at 402-431-9000 to learn more about your options.
Why You Should Choose The Knowles Law Firm
At The Knowles Law Firm, we have the experience and resources necessary to help you secure the compensation you deserve for your loss. With almost 30 years of experience and a near 100% success rate, you can count on us. We understand that no amount of money can bring back your loved one, but we will do everything in our power to get you justice. Let us fight for you while you focus on healing. If you or a loved one has lost someone due to another person’s negligence, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Nebraska’s Wrongful Death Laws
What is Wrongful Death & When Can a Claim Be Filed?
Under Nebraska law, “wrongful death” occurs when the death of an individual is caused by the wrongful act or negligence of another. Certain requirements must be met in order to file a claim, including the following:
- The death was caused by the negligence or wrongfulness of another person or persons.
- The surviving spouse, child, parent, or other next of kin of the deceased has suffered a financial loss as a result of the death.
- A personal representative has been appointed for the deceased’s estate.
Nebraska Wrongful Death Filing Deadline
It’s important to note that the statute of limitations in a wrongful death claim differs from the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. Under Nebraska law, you must file a wrongful death claim within two years from the date on which your loved one died. If it is not discovered that your loved one’s death was caused by negligence within the 2-year deadline, the statute of limitations may be extended to one year from the date that the negligence is discovered or within one year from when it should have reasonably been discovered.
If you’re considering filing a wrongful death claim in Nebraska, it’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can review your case and help you determine whether you have a valid claim. Additionally, a La Vista personal injury lawyer can help ensure that your claim is filed within the deadline.
The Decedent’s Family Cannot Recover Damages For Emotional Pain and Suffering
In the state of Nebraska, the family of the loved one who passed away cannot recover damages for their own emotional injuries as a result of their loved one’s death. Damages are limited to pecuniary ones – ones that have a more objective monetary value. Damages such as mental suffering are not recoverable.
Damages for Loss of Companionship ARE Recoverable
While family members of the decedent cannot recover damages for mental anguish or pain and suffering, they can recover monetary compensation for loss of companionship, loss of comfort, and loss of care. There’s no requirement that an exact dollar amount be prescribed to these types of damages.
