Losing a loved one is heartbreaking—especially when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence. In Florida, families have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and compensation for their devastating loss. While no amount of money can replace a life, a wrongful death lawsuit can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and the emotional pain that follows.
If you believe your family has grounds for a wrongful death case, here’s what you need to know about your rights, how the process works, and how a lawyer can help.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under Florida law, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the “wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach of contract” of another party. This can include:
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Car accidents
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Medical malpractice
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Workplace accidents
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Defective products
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Criminal acts
The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to hold the at-fault party accountable and compensate the surviving family members for the financial and emotional losses caused by the death.
If your loved one was killed in an accident caused by someone else, our team of wrongful death lawyers Fort Lauderdale is ready to help you understand your legal options.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?
Florida law allows the personal representative of the deceased person's estate to file the wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members. The claim may seek compensation for:
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The spouse
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Children
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Parents
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Any blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were dependent on the deceased
If you’re unsure whether you qualify to file, a skilled attorney can help determine your eligibility and guide you through the process.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Florida
Wrongful deaths can occur in various ways, but some of the most common include:
1. Motor Vehicle Accidents
Fatal car crashes are among the leading causes of wrongful death in Florida. If your loved one died in a car accident due to a reckless driver, DUI, or distracted driving, our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers can help you file a claim and recover damages.
2. Medical Negligence
When healthcare professionals fail to provide the expected standard of care, the consequences can be fatal. Wrongful death claims in these cases may involve surgical errors, medication mistakes, or failure to diagnose a condition in time.
3. Workplace Accidents
If a loved one dies on the job—especially in high-risk industries like construction or manufacturing—you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim against the employer or a third-party contractor.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Florida Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Wrongful death damages in Florida aim to compensate surviving family members for the tangible and intangible losses caused by the death. These may include:
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Medical and funeral expenses
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Loss of financial support and future income
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Loss of companionship and protection
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Mental pain and suffering
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Loss of parental guidance and instruction (for minor children)
Every case is different, and the value of your claim depends on several factors, including the age of the deceased, their earning potential, and the relationship to the survivors.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?
Florida has a strict statute of limitations on wrongful death cases. In most situations, you have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering any compensation at all.
Because this window is short, it’s important to contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible to start building your case.
Why You Need a Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death Lawyer
Wrongful death cases are emotionally overwhelming and legally complex. Insurance companies may try to reduce or deny your claim, and at-fault parties often resist responsibility. That’s why having a knowledgeable legal team on your side is crucial.
At Wolf & Pravato, our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers have decades of experience handling wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We know how to:
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Investigate the accident
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Prove liability
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Calculate the full extent of damages
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Handle negotiations with insurance companies
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Represent you in court if necessary
Our compassionate attorneys are here to support your family every step of the way.
Get the Justice Your Loved One Deserves
The pain of losing someone you love never fully goes away, but pursuing a wrongful death claim can help bring a sense of closure—and the financial support your family needs to move forward. You don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone.
If you lost a family member in an accident, contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale wrongful death attorneys today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal rights, and fight tirelessly on your behalf.
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