Wrongful Death Lawyers in Rhode Island

The loss of a family member due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another party is heartbreaking. During this difficult time, Karns & Kerrison understands that you may be experiencing grief, sadness, anger, and confusion. We can take on your legal burdens and get a wrongful death claim underway while giving you the time and space needed to move through the grieving process.

With more than 85 years of collective experience, the Rhode Island wrongful death attorneys at Karns & Kerrison put a priority on providing exemplary legal counsel and advocacy. We are veteran trial lawyers whose reputation and experience in the courtroom have enabled us to secure large verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients who have suffered the devastating loss of a loved one as the result of someone else's negligence.

​​​​​Contact Karns & Kerrison online or call (888) 281-3100 to learn more. We offer free, confidential consultations.

What Is A Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil action that seeks compensatory damages for the death of an individual that was caused by wrongdoing or negligence. A wrongful death lawsuit is not dependant on the choices of law enforcement or criminal courts, and can be filed even if a criminal charge or conviction has not been obtained.

These claims may be filed against a wide variety of parties, including corporations, employers, the government, the negligent driver in a fatal car accident, doctors or hospitals responsible for medical malpractice, or the manufacturer of a defective product.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Rhode Island?

​​​​​When someone's negligent or willful actions take the life of another, the surviving family may be entitled to bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased. Rhode Island statute 10-7-2 states that a wrongful death claim must be filed by the administrator of the deceased's estate, if an estate exists. If the deceased had no estate at the time of their death, then the surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim in court.

The state of Rhode Island prioritizes which surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim, or receive damages from the claim, as follows:

• Surviving spouse and children
• Surviing spouse but no children
• Heirs of the estate, which may include the parents, grandchildren, or other parties

Under the statutes of limitation in Rhode Island, a wrongful death claim must be filed within three years from the date of your loved one's death. We know you are grieving, but it's important that you contact our Rhode Island wrongful death attorneys as soon as possible!

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Case?

The surviving family members of a wrongful death victim are eligible to recover economic, non-economiic, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Economic damages include:

• The lost income (or potential earning) of the decedent
• Medical costs incurred prior to their death
• Funeral and burial expenses

Non-economic damages can cover:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of companionship

Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer for their negligent or criminal actions that caused the wrongful death and are only awarded on a case by case basis, such as a drunk driver, or a major corporation that willfully puts consumers at risk. Our RI wrongful death lawyers can help you understand all compensatory damages you are entitled to and fight for the justice you and your family deserves!

Get Started on Your Case Today with a Free Consultation

If a loved one was killed because of the negligence or wrongdoing of another party, we would like to extend our condolences. We also encourage you to call or email us to speak with one of our attorneys about your options in pursuing a wrongful death claim. Cases are taken on a contingency fee basis. We will not ask for attorneys' fees until and unless we win compensation for you.

Do you need a wrongful death lawyer in Rhode Island? Contact Karns & Kerrison at (888) 281-3100 for a free consultation today.