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What Is A Survival Action?

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Survival Action Overview

A survival action is similar to a wrongful death claim, but it focuses on recovering the damages the deceased person experienced before their death.

Instead of compensating the family for their loss, a survival action allows the estate of the deceased to pursue compensation for injuries, medical treatment, and pain and suffering endured between the time of the accident and death.

judge reviewing a survival action document

Because of the complexity of these claims, it is important to work with an experienced wrongful death attorney.

Difference Between Wrongful Death And Survival Actions

A wrongful death claim compensates the family for losses resulting from the death, such as funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

A survival action, on the other hand, focuses on the damages the deceased experienced before passing away, including medical bills and pain and suffering.

In many cases, both claims can be pursued together depending on the circumstances.

Detailed Example Of A Survival Action

Imagine a person is seriously injured in a car accident caused by another driver. They receive medical treatment for days or weeks, experiencing significant pain and accumulating medical expenses.

If that person later passes away due to those injuries, a survival action allows their estate to recover compensation for those medical costs and suffering prior to death.

This is separate from the wrongful death claim, which addresses the impact of the loss on the family.

Who Can File A Lawsuit?

Wrongful death claims are typically filed by close family members, including:

  • Spouse of the deceased
  • Children of the deceased
  • Parents of the deceased
  • Siblings in certain situations
  • Personal representative of the estate

Learn more about who can file a wrongful death claim.

A survival action is brought on behalf of the estate, typically by the personal representative.

Both claims must be filed within the Colorado statute of limitations, generally within two years.

What Types Of Damages Can Be Claimed?

Survival actions focus on economic damages related to the care and treatment of the deceased before death.

These may include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Hospital bills
  • Costs of treatment and care

Wrongful death claims, by contrast, include compensation for emotional losses and financial support provided to surviving family members.

Learn more about wrongful death damages.

Why You Need An Attorney

Survival actions and wrongful death claims are complex and often involve multiple parties, timelines, and types of damages.

An experienced attorney can help gather evidence, establish liability, and maximize compensation.

At Rector Stuzynski Law Firm, we guide families through every step of the process and handle the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most.

We are available 24/7 and offer free consultations.

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
(719) 578-1106

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