Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death Lawyers in Fort Lauderdale

The loss of a loved one is terrible but knowing that the death was unnecessarily caused by someone else’s action is devastating. A wrongful death claim may be pursued by the family or the estate of the deceased when a crime or negligence results in the loss of life. Whether the cause is the result of a car accident, defective product, medical mistake, travel accident, or violent crime a wrongful death claim can be pursued. Don’t hesitate to contact our wrongful death lawyers. Here at Coffey McPharlin, we will pursue the recovery of the “full value of a life” on behalf of the family

What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death?

In Florida, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, family members, including spouses, children, and parents, can file a lawsuit to recover damages for the loss of financial and emotional support. The amount of compensation available often depends on the claimant’s relationship to the deceased and the degree of support they received.

Some of the most common causes of wrongful death include:

• Medical Malpractice: Medical errors are a leading cause of death in the United States. Wrongful death due to medical malpractice can occur when a healthcare provider makes a mistake, such as a misdiagnosis, surgical error, or failure to provide timely treatment. These errors can lead to devastating outcomes, including death, that could have been prevented.
• Workplace Accidents: Certain jobs, like construction and truck driving, are inherently risky, but workplace deaths can happen in any setting. Wrongful death claims may arise from incidents involving defective machinery, unsafe working conditions, or negligent supervision.
• Premises Liability: Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain safe conditions on their premises. If a hazard on their property results in a fatality, they may be held liable in a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are common causes of wrongful death. These incidents often result from negligent behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.

Birth Injuries: Tragically, some wrongful death cases involve birth injuries that result from medical negligence during delivery. These cases can lead to profound grief for families, as they must cope with the loss of an infant due to preventable mistakes.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida

In Florida, there is a two-year statute of limitations to file a wrongful death claim, making it crucial to act quickly. This can include compensation for:

• Lost Income and Financial Support: The income and financial benefits that the deceased would have provided to their family over their lifetime.
• Medical and Funeral Expenses: Costs related to medical treatment before death, as well as funeral and burial expenses.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional distress and mental anguish suffered by the surviving family members.
• Loss of Companionship and Guidance: Compensation for the loss of the deceased’s companionship, instruction, and emotional support.
• Punitive Damages: In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party for particularly egregious behavior.

Two primary groups can file a wrongful death lawsuit under Florida law: the deceased’s estate and the surviving family members. Each group may be entitled to different types and amounts of compensation. For instance, survivors may recover compensation for emotional and financial support, while the estate may seek damages related to medical bills and funeral costs.

At Coffey McPharlin, our experienced wrongful death attorneys understand the complexities of Florida’s legal system and are dedicated to helping families navigate the process with compassion and determination. We will handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.

Providing For The Family After a Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death

The facts and circumstances of each wrongful death case are inherently unique. Evaluating the claim’s economic value often requires a seasoned wrongful death attorney who understands the underlying causes. If the decedent’s injuries were not immediately fatal, your attorney could help pursue a separate survivorship action on behalf of the victim, had they survived the incident of negligence.

Securing legal representation in the aftermath of a wrongful death may not be a priority for grieving families in Fort Lauderdale. However, it’s crucial to act quickly, as the statute of limitations in Florida for pursuing a wrongful death claim is two years. This makes expeditiously gathering, examining, and preserving evidence vital to maximizing the financial recovery potential of your claim.

Hiring a Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death Lawyer

We understand and recognize the emotional suffering associated with losing a loved one. Our team provides you with the legal resources needed to secure the greatest possible monetary recovery. We thoroughly investigate all the facts, consult with a network of leading industry experts to assist in pre-trial research, maintain effective client communication, and facilitate insurance negotiations. This comprehensive approach helps us build the most compelling claim on your behalf.

For over 20 years, Coffey McPharlin has served wrongful death victims in Fort Lauderdale. We have recovered millions in settlements for our clients because we are aggressively committed to safeguarding your interests.

Call Our Law Office Today

The pain of losing a loved one is unimaginable, and while no legal action can ever truly heal that wound, seeking justice can provide a sense of closure and financial relief during this difficult time. We understand the profound emotional and financial challenges that come with a wrongful death, and we are here to help.

Our dedicated team of attorneys will stand by your side as compassionate advocates, guiding you through every step of the legal process with care and understanding. We will meticulously investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, aggressively pursuing every avenue to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Call our office today, and take the first step toward justice and recovery. We’re Good Lawyers Helping People!