Calculating Losses in a Texas Wrongful Death Case: More Than Just Lost Income

At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston wrongful death attorneys understand that no amount of money can replace a lost loved one. However, when another party’s negligence causes a death, families have the right to pursue compensation for the full scope of their loss, both financial and emotional.

One of the most misunderstood aspects of a wrongful death claim is how damages are calculated. Many assume that these claims are only about lost wages. But under Texas law, wrongful death damages go much deeper, reflecting the lasting impact of a person’s absence on the people who depended on them most.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of another person or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or misconduct. This could stem from a car crash, industrial accident, medical negligence, unsafe premises, or a defective product.

In Texas, surviving spouses, children, and parents of the deceased may file a wrongful death claim. The purpose is to shift the burden of financial and emotional harm from the grieving family to the party responsible. The law allows for a wide range of damages that reflect the economic impact and the profound human loss involved.

Economic Damages: Beyond Lost Income

Lost income is an essential element of many wrongful death cases, especially when the deceased was a primary earner. But that’s only one part of the picture.

Economic damages may also include:

• Loss of future earnings, including expected promotions or raises.
• Loss of household services, such as childcare, home maintenance, or caregiving.
• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Medical bills related to the final injury or illness.
• Loss of health insurance or retirement benefits.

Employment records, tax returns, and expert testimony about the deceased’s earning potential can often support these losses. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we work with financial experts to ensure that every relevant figure is accounted for.

Non-Economic Damages: The Emotional and Relational Losses

Some of the most devastating consequences of a wrongful death aren’t financial—they’re personal.

Texas law allows surviving family members to recover non-economic damages, including:

• Mental anguish and emotional suffering.
• Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support.
• Loss of guidance, care, and nurturing (especially for children).
• Loss of consortium for surviving spouses.

These damages reflect the human cost of losing a loved one’s presence, connection, and support. Though harder to quantify, they are often the most critical part of a wrongful death claim.

How Hollingsworth Law Firm Builds a Full and Fair Case

Wrongful death claims are profoundly personal and legally complex. Our attorneys approach each case with compassion, strategic insight, and a commitment to honoring your loved one’s legacy. We work with economists, grief experts, and medical professionals to present a comprehensive picture of what your family has lost and what justice requires.

If you’ve lost someone due to negligence in Harris County, contact Hollingsworth Law Firm today at 713-637-4560 or online for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your legal options and fight to secure the financial and emotional recovery you deserve.

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