Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is a shocking, life-changing event filled with deep pain and grief. Without warning, you have suddenly lost a person who was a fundamental part of your life. On top of the grief, you are now facing bills from the accident and lost wages.
While nothing can undo your loss, pursuing a wrongful death claim may provide financial stability, accountability, and a measure of justice for your family. At Maranatha Law, we meet families on some of the worst days of their lives so they don’t have to face the system alone. If your loved one was killed in a fatal car accident in Florida, we can help.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Florida
State law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death claim when a person dies in a fatal car accident in Florida due to another driver’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. A wrongful death claim often arises if the crash resulted from:
- Speeding,
- Distracted driving,
- Impaired driving, or
- Careless behavior behind the wheel.
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit to recover damages for surviving family members and the estate of the deceased. The purpose is not only financial compensation but also recognition of the loss and accountability for the responsible party.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida
Not every family member has the legal right to file. Florida law requires that the personal representative of the deceased’s estate bring the claim on behalf of surviving family members. The personal representative is typically named in the deceased’s will. If there is no will, the court appoints a representative.
The beneficiaries who may recover include:
- Spouse of the deceased;
- Children of the deceased (both minor and adult, depending on circumstances);
- Parents of a minor child who passed away; and
- Parents of an adult child, if no other close relatives exist.
Additionally, anyone who paid for the victim’s medical bills from the crash or the funeral expenses can recover those costs as part of the claim.
Types of Damages Available in a Florida Fatal Car Accident Claim
Wrongful death damages fall into several categories. Each serves a unique role in addressing the financial and emotional toll caused by the accident.
Economic Damages
Economic damages include:
- Medical expenses incurred before death;
- Funeral and burial costs; and
- The loss of the deceased’s income, benefits, and future earning capacity.
Economic damages are often extensive, especially if the deceased supported a household.
Noneconomic Damages
Noneconomic damages compensate for the intangible suffering endured by surviving family members. Examples include the loss of companionship, guidance, emotional support, and protection. Children may recover for the loss of parental companionship and instruction, and spouses may recover for the loss of marital companionship.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the at-fault driver engaged in particularly reckless or intentional misconduct, such as drunk driving at high speeds. Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Fatal Car Accident in Florida
Time is critical after a fatal accident. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence, protect your legal rights, and strengthen your claim.
- Protect your well-being. Seek immediate medical and mental health support for yourself and your family. The emotional toll of a fatal car accident can impact your well-being and ability to make clear decisions.
- Document the crash. Secure a copy of the police report. This document provides essential details about the crash, including statements, diagrams, and initial fault assessments.
- Preserve key evidence. Gather evidence such as photos of the scene, contact information of witnesses, and any available video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses.
- Guard against insurers. Avoid communication with insurance companies until you have legal representation. Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts, and what you say early can be used against you.
- Seek trusted legal guidance. Contact an experienced wrongful death attorney who handles fatal car accident cases in Florida. Legal representation ensures you are informed, protected, and positioned to maximize your recovery.
Many times, families are too distraught to undertake most of this work. That’s where we come in. As your attorney, we can gather evidence and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. We can also help you connect with medical and mental health providers.
How We Approach Wrongful Death Cases
At Maranatha Law, we recognize the weight of your loss. We take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing and supporting your family. Our team carefully investigates every crash detail, works with experts to reconstruct events, and calculates the full extent of damages to pursue maximum compensation.
We provide clear explanations of the process, regular updates, and personal attention to your family’s needs. You will never be in the dark about what is happening with your case. We are committed to fighting for justice while treating you with compassion and respect.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Insurance companies act quickly after a fatal crash, often seeking to close cases for far less than families deserve. Without an experienced attorney, you risk receiving inadequate compensation that fails to cover long-term needs. Legal guidance ensures you are not misled or pressured into unfair settlements.
An attorney also provides the reassurance that the legal system hears your voice and understands the impact of your loss. Every detail matters, from financial losses to the irreplaceable value of love, support, and presence. A skilled advocate makes sure those realities are fully recognized in negotiations or in court.
Seek Justice Today
The path ahead after a fatal car accident feels overwhelming, but you are not alone. We are here to create a path toward financial recovery and accountability. A wrongful death claim cannot replace what was lost, but it can bring stability and honor the life of your loved one.
We encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. Our founder, Tim Maranatha, will personally work on your case. Together, we will review the circumstances of your case, explain your options clearly, and guide you step by step through the process.
You deserve answers, justice, and the peace of mind from knowing your case is handled with care. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.
