A legitimate or legitimized natural father, who has not abandoned his family, and the legitimate or natural mother may individually or jointly institute an action for the injury of a minor child, and a guardian for the injury of a ward, when such injury is caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another. The death of the child or ward shall not abate the parent's or guardian's cause of action for his injury as to damages accruing before his death. In every action under this section such damages may be given as under the circumstances of the case may be just. If an action arising out of the same wrongful act or neglect may be maintained pursuant to section 76 of this title for the wrongful death of any such child, the action authorized by this section shall be consolidated therewith for trial on motion of any interested party.