Your family may be left feeling devastated, confused, and emotionally distraught after finding out that a loved one has unexpectedly passed away in an accident. The last thing you may wish to take on is a lawsuit. However, filing a wrongful death claim in Jacksonville, Florida could bring your family justice, closure, and the financial compensation that you need to move forward. Contact an attorney at Bailey & Glasser, LLP for personalized legal advice during this difficult time.
What Is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death is the loss of someone’s life due to another person’s neglect, wrongful act, or default. Neglect, or negligence, refers to the failure to use reasonable care. A wrongful act can refer to a reckless act or wanton disregard for the safety of others. It can also refer to malicious intent to harm or criminal acts, including homicide or manslaughter. Default is the legal term for an omission.
A wrongful death claim is a type of civil lawsuit that may be filed by surviving loved ones or the deceased person’s estate in pursuit of financial compensation for a preventable loss of life. It may be brought against one or multiple parties for causing or significantly contributing to the victim’s fatal illness or injury. Each state has its own wrongful death laws that must be followed to have a valid claim.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Florida
Wrongful death claims may be filed in Jacksonville after many different types of fatal accidents. Some of the most common causes include:
- Motor vehicle collisions
- Truck accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Defective and unsafe products
- Dangerous premises
- Exposure to toxic substances, such as asbestos
- Criminal acts
If you believe someone else is to blame for the loss of your loved one’s life, discuss the possibility of your family filing a wrongful death claim with an attorney at Bailey & Glasser, LLP.
Wrongful Death FAQs
Your family most likely has numerous questions after learning of the sudden death of a loved one. Our lawyers are here to provide personalized legal counsel and answers to your specific questions during a cost-free case review.
In the meantime, we hope these frequently asked questions can help:
- Who can file a wrongful death claim? In Florida, the law permits only the personal representative of the decedent’s estate to file, rather than individual family members. The representative will file on behalf of all beneficiaries.
- What damages are available? The damages or financial compensation available can include funeral and burial costs, medical bills, lost companionship, and care, lost earnings and inheritance, and pain and suffering.
- How long do I have to file? The statute of limitations on a wrongful death claim in Florida is two years from the date of the death, in most cases. Filing outside of this deadline will bar a family from recovering compensation.
There are many other issues and matters that will need to be discussed before filing a wrongful death claim in Florida. Prepare yourself and your family as much as possible by working with an attorney at Bailey & Glasser, LLP.
We Are Here to Help | Contact Us Today
Wrongful death is one of the most emotionally charged types of civil lawsuits filed in Florida. Our lawyers understand what you are going through. We are here to help your family get through each phase of the civil justice process. We will protect your rights along the way with tailored legal advice and guidance. Request your free case consultation today. Call (727) 894-6745 or contact us online and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
In addition to our extensive experience in wrongful death cases, Bailey & Glasser, LLP is well-equipped to handle a broad range of personal injury claims. Whether you’re a victim of medical malpractice or have been involved in a severe truck accident, our seasoned attorneys can offer the comprehensive legal assistance you need. We understand the personal and legal implications of such traumatic incidents, and our mission is to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Our commitment to personal injury law has enabled us to successfully guide countless clients through the complexities of their unique cases.