An Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney Serving Pembroke Pines Will Advocate for You!
When a family member dies, understanding the best course of action for recovering financial damages can be extremely difficult to do. But for many, filing a claim for compensation is the only way to recover necessary compensation for losses associated with the death. Wrongful death claims can be extremely complicated so it is in your best interests to consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney serving Pembroke Pines who will make sure your claim is resolved as efficiently as possible.
When a Wrongful Death Lawsuit is the Best Course of Action
Not all family member deaths warrant a wrongful death lawsuit. However, when the death would not have occurred but for the negligent actions of another person or entity, a wrongful death action may be the best course of action for recovering damages. This is especially true if financial damages suffered are severe, and total thousands of dollars in funeral and burial expenses, tens of thousands of dollars in medical expenses, and often millions of dollars of lost wages and earning capacity.
How to Hold an At-Fault Party Liable for Damages
In order to recover damages, it is not enough to merely file a claim against the party responsible for your loved one's death; rather, you must prove that the at-fault party acted negligently. Further, you must prove that the negligence was the direct cause of the fatal injury. Common examples of negligence that can lead to an innocent person's death include:
- Failing to maintain a property in a reasonably safe condition;
- Manufacturing or distributing a dangerous product or drug; or
- Operating a motor vehicle in an unsafe, intoxicated, and/or impaired manner.
The above list is not inclusive; there are a variety of negligent acts that could result in a person sustaining a fatal injury. Consulting with wrongful death attorneys to discuss acts of negligence and how to prove negligence is highly advised.
Florida Law Regarding Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim and When
Florida law is very specific regarding who can file a wrongful death action for damages, as well as when that claim can be filed. In regards to the first, only the personal representative(s) of the deceased or estate administrator may file a wrongful death claim. However, the claim can be filed with the intent to recover damages for the deceased's surviving family members/beneficiaries.
In regards to the latter, all civil actions to recover damages for injuries resulting in death must be filed no more than two years after the date of death of the victim. Make sure you consult with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible after your loved one's death to ensure that you file within the given time frame.
A Wrongful Death Attorney Serving Pembroke Pines Can Help You
Before accepting a settlement amount from an insurance company or attempting to file a claim on your own, make sure to consult with a wrongful death attorney serving Pembroke Pines. An experienced attorney can work hard to make sure your claim is handled as efficiently and smoothly as possible, yielding the maximum recovery for loved ones left behind.
Serving Pembroke Pines Wrongful Death Lawyer Jarrett Blakeley of the Blakeley Law Firm, P.A. is ready to meet with you today. To schedule a free case consultation, call 954-253-9445 or request a consultation online today.