What Are Economic Damages Under Connecticut Law When the Victim Dies as a Result of the Medical Malpractice?

In Connecticut, the harms, injuries and losses suffered by the Estate of the deceased person are broken down into two distinct categories, as established by Connecticut General Statutes § 52-527h (a): Economic Damages and Non-economic Damages; and also Connecticut General Statute § 52-555, Actions for injuries resulting in death.

In the context of a wrongful death medical malpractice claim, the phrase “Economic Damages” means “compensation … for pecuniary losses including, but not limited to, the cost of reasonable and necessary medical care, rehabilitative services, custodial care and loss of earnings or earning capacity ….” Connecticut General Statutes § 52-572h (a). In plain English, this means losses or damages that can be measured in actual dollars. In a wrongful death claim, some examples might include medical bills for treatment before the person died, wages or income lost before death, estimated future lost wages or income, etc. For additional examples economic losses that fall into this category, see the FAQ entitled “A Person’s Estate can Recover Compensation for All Economic Damages For Wrongful Death Caused by Medical Malpractice.”

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury or loss caused by medical malpractice, medical negligence, or medical mistake, please contact our Medical Malpractice Law Group to arrange a free and confidential consultation.

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