New York Law continually adjusts for our state’s citizens frequently; these laws are intended to provide fair and just legislation within a variety of circumstances. As laws change every day; laws expand, and laws shrink, our responsibility is always in the best interest of our clients.
Currently, one of New York’s laws regarding wrongful death lawsuits is awaiting the governor’s signature to be amended. The changes discussed are favorable for wrongful death lawsuit plaintiffs. If the Grieving Families Act is signed into law, the class of plaintiffs who can bring claims will be expanded as well as the categories for damages.
The “Grieving Families Act” (“GFA”) is set to significantly expand compensable damages in wrongful death actions. Currently, compensable damages in these types of actions are limited to pecuniary loss only, such as pre-death medical expenses, funeral expenses, and loss of financial support.
The GFA modernizes the current wrongful death statute in New York, which has been in place since 1847. The bill acknowledges that the damages caused by losing a loved one are not limited to the financial support received from their paycheck, but also involve the losses that take an emotional and psychological toll on those left behind.
Proponents of the GFA advocate that this new law will expand the compensable damages categories, as well as expand the number of deserving individuals who can make claims to recover for the wrongful deaths of their loved ones. Opponents argue that this law will drive up the cost of insurance premiums and negatively impact consumers, businesses, and ultimately taxpayers as well as encouraging inflated damage awards to a new class of plaintiffs.
We at Daniella Levi & Associates, PC are strong advocates for the signing of this bill into Law.
After a serious accident, many people are in desperate need of the financial support that comes from a successful result of their personal injury claim. To ensure that you have the best chance at obtaining the compensation you deserve, your lawyer should be just as invested in your case as you are.
At Daniella Levi & Associates, P.C., headquartered in New York City, we believe strongly in upholding the rights of accident victims. We are dedicated advocates for our clients, fighting, and using every available resource, to obtain the compensation they deserve.
Daniella Levi & Associates P.C. has 3 Locations in NYC: Levi Law Queens | Levi Law The Bronx | Levi Law Mineola