A fatal car accident is not only a severe emotional loss to a family, but also a major financial loss in many cases. When a fatal car accident occurs as a result of another's misdeeds, negligence, and/or recklessness, that person may be liable for the "wrongful death" of the fatal car accident victim. Generally, if a death has occurred, caused by another's negligence or intent to cause harm, and, as a result, the decedent's family has suffered financial harm, then the personal representative of the decedent's estate may maintain a wrongful death action against the person responsible for the accident. In a wrongful death suit, the personal representative, on behalf of the decedent's immediate family, can seek financial compensation, which usually includes such expenses such as medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of support. Any damages or monies that are awarded as a result of the wrongful death suit are paid to the decedent's estate, for further distribution to the decedent's heirs, as per the terms of his or her will or other estate planning device.