A wrongful death claim and a survival claim are related and address distinct harms and losses experienced due to the death of an individual. However, a wrongful death claim is brought forth by the deceased’s family members or beneficiaries. It seeks compensation for their personal losses as a result of their loved one’s death, such as lost companionship, emotional anguish, lost financial support, and funeral expenses.

On the other hand, a survival claim is derived from the rights of the deceased person, had they survived. Essentially, while a wrongful death claim compensates loved ones for their losses, a survival claim addresses the losses the deceased would have been entitled to had they lived.

Catastrophic injury cases and standard personal injury cases both fall under the umbrella of injury law, but they differ primarily in terms of the severity of the injuries and the implications for the victim. A catastrophic injury typically results in profound, often permanent, life-altering consequences. These cases involve injuries that lead to long-term or permanent disability, reduced life expectancy, and a radical change in the victim’s quality of life.

Due to the extreme nature of these injuries, catastrophic injury cases often entail higher medical costs, more extended periods of rehabilitation, lifelong care or assistance, and larger compensation claims. In contrast, standard personal injury cases usually involve injuries from which victims can recover fully or with fewer lasting impacts on their daily lives. These might encompass cases like minor car accidents, slip and fall incidents, or less severe medical malpractice. The stakes, both emotionally and financially, tend to be significantly higher in catastrophic injury cases compared to more routine personal injury claims.

Victims may be entitled to damages that cover current and future medical expenses, given the extensive care and rehabilitation often required. Compensation can also be pursued for lost wages and the diminished capacity to earn in the future, recognizing the significant limitations these injuries may impose. Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional, are also key components of these claims, addressing the intense trauma and life-altering consequences faced by victims. Furthermore, in cases where negligence or malicious intent played a part, punitive damages might be awarded as a means to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future. Each case is unique, so it’s essential to work with an experienced attorney who can accurately assess the full scope of damages pertinent to an individual’s circumstances.