The death of a loved one is always a difficult and trying time. If the death was caused by the negligence or wrongful act of another, it can be even more challenging to cope with. In addition to the emotional toll, there may also be financial burdens associated with the death, such as funeral expenses and lost income.
In Florida, survivors of a deceased person may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party to seek compensation for their losses. If you have recently lost a loved one and believe that someone else’s negligence caused their death, here is what you need to know about filing a wrongful death claim in Florida.
The Top Causes of Wrongful Deaths
No one wants to think about the wrongful death of a loved one. But sadly, accidents happen. Here are some of the most common causes of wrongful death claims in the United States.
1. Medical Malpractice
One of the most common causes of wrongful death is medical malpractice. This can occur when a doctor or another medical professional makes a mistake that leads to a patient’s death. Examples of medical malpractice include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, failure to properly treat a condition, and birth injuries.
2. Car Accidents
Thousands of people are killed in car accidents every year. While some accidents are caused by factors like weather or road conditions, many are the result of driver error. Common examples of driver error include distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding.
3. Workplace Accidents
Sadly, many people are killed on the job every year. Workplace accidents can occur in any industry, but they’re especially common in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture.
4. Fatal Falls
Falls are relatively common, but they can sometimes be deadly—especially for elderly adults. Fatal falls often occur in nursing homes when residents are not adequately supervised or when there are hazards present in the home, like wet floors or loose carpeting.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of death. If you do not file within this time frame, you will be barred from doing so.
Compensation Available in Florida Wrongful Death Claims
If you are successful in your wrongful death claim, you may be awarded damages. These damages are intended to compensate the survivors for their losses and are divided among them based on their degree of dependency on the deceased.
They may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income and benefits
- Loss of companionship and protection
- Mental anguish and suffering
This is not an exhaustive list but includes some of the most common types of damages awarded in wrongful death claims.
Why You Should Hire GOLDLAW for Your Wrongful Death Claim
The death of a loved one is always a difficult and traumatic event. If you find yourself in this situation, you need an experienced and compassionate law firm to help you through the process of seeking justice. That’s where GOLDLAW comes in.
At GOLDLAW, we understand the trauma our clients have suffered and are committed to helping them recover. We can even perform the intake and bring contracts to your home or the hospital when necessary. We promise to work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf and get you the compensation you deserve.
GOLDLAW has a proven track record of success in wrongful death claims, and we are confident we can help you. Contact us today for a free consultation, or call us at (561) 222-2222.