Wrongful Death Laws in North Carolina.

Action brought by the personal representative for the benefit of the estate's heirs/beneficiaries. Damages include pre-death pain and suffering; medical, hospital, and funeral expenses; loss of income; loss of society, companionship, services, protection, care, and assistance; and, if applicable, punitive damages. Recovery is NOT subject to the decedent's debts (except funeral, medical, and administration expenses).

North Carolina's pure contributory negligence rule applies to wrongful death — if the decedent was 1% or more at fault, the claim is barred.