If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence in Florida, you may want to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Just keep in mind that a wrongful death lawsuit can be tricky to win, so it is highly recommended that you contact an experienced attorney that has a lot of experience and specializes in this practice area.
One of the founding partners at Herman & Wells is Clifford Wells, who is a board-certified trial lawyer who has dedicated his career to working with clients in Florida who have a personal injury or wrongful death claims. If you want to speak to Clifford about your case, you can reach him at (727) 821-3195.
Florida law recognizes that the death of a loved one is a tragedy that imposes significant financial and emotional hardship on the family. If the death was caused by the negligence of another, Florida law gives the family the right to file a wrongful death claim. A successful claim can recover damages for the loss of support and companionship, as well as funeral and medical expenses.
The experienced wrongful death attorneys at our firm have a proven track record of success in handling these complex cases. You can see that some of our biggest case results are from wrongful death claims. You can see our wrongful death case results here. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, we can help.
If you’re looking for experienced, knowledgeable help with wrongful death, Herman & Wells is the firm for you. They offer a free consultation to get to know you and your unique situation. So why wait? Contact Herman & Wells today and get the peace of mind that comes with having our experts on your side.
The Cliff Notes: Key Takeaways From This Post
- 1In Florida, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the negligence of another person or entity.
- 2The most common causes of wrongful death in Florida are car accidents and medical malpractice.
- 3Wrongful death is different from murder, as it does not require proof that the defendant intended to kill the deceased.
- 4In order to win a wrongful death lawsuit, survivors must prove that the death was caused by negligence, that there are financial damages suffered due to the death, and that a personal representative has been appointed to bring the claim.
- 5Damages may include medical and funeral expenses, lost wages and benefits, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and in some cases punitive damages.
- 6The statute of limitations in Florida generally requires filing a wrongful death claim within two years of the date of the deceased’s death. For personalized guidance on your case, contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer today.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim Under Florida Law?
Florida law defines wrongful death as occurring when someone dies due to the negligence or wrongful act of another party. In order to file a wrongful death claim in Florida, the surviving spouse, child, or parent of the deceased must file a lawsuit within two years of the date of death. If the death was caused by a criminal act, then the Florida Department of Justice must file the suit on behalf of the survivors. If successful, a Florida wrongful death claim can result in compensation for medical and funeral expenses, loss of income and benefits, and pain and suffering.
Additionally, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the death was caused by gross negligence or malice. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced Florida wrongful death attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.
What are the Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Florida?
In Florida, a wrongful death claim can be filed when someone dies due to the negligence of another person or entity. Florida law defines negligence as the failure to use reasonable care, which is the care that a prudent person would use under similar circumstances. There are many different ways that negligence can lead to wrongful death.
One of Florida’s leading causes of wrongful death is car accidents. In 2017, there were 3,116 traffic fatalities in Florida, which was a 9% increase from the previous year. Florida’s busy roads and highways are filled with distracted drivers, aggressive drivers, and drunk drivers, all of whom pose a serious threat to other motorists. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party.
Another common cause of wrongful death in Florida is medical malpractice. Medical errors can happen in any type of healthcare setting, from hospitals and clinics to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. If a doctor or other healthcare provider makes a mistake that results in someone’s death, the family of the deceased may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the provider or the facility where the error occurred.
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. To learn more about Florida’s wrongful death laws and how to maximize your compensation, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today.
