Roadway Actions Leading to Wrongful Death Claims
Driving is one of the most dangerous activities that we partake in almost every day. Car accidents are actually a leading cause of injuries and fatalities in Florida and beyond every single year. As more and more people partake in texting and driving and getting behind the wheel while intoxicated, more fatalities stem from serious collisions.
According to statistics issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 3,170 people were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2014 alone. When someone’s actions are so careless that they lead to a fatality, the loved ones of that victim are permitted to bring what is known as a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim will help you achieve compensation so that you and your loved ones can move forward after you have suffered the devastating loss of a loved one.
What Actions Commonly Lead to Wrongful Deaths?
Car accidents happen every hour of the day in Florida, with more than 3,000 people losing their lives every year in these accidents. There are many reasons why victims lose their lives in accidents, with some of the most common being:
- Distracted driving, such as texting and driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Reckless driving such as speeding or racing
- Adverse weather conditions
- Drowsy driving
- Car manufacturing defects
Elements Present in Wrongful Death Claims
Every state is different in the way that they handle wrongful death claims. Here are the elements that must be shown for you or your family to be successful in a wrongful death claim on behalf of another party:
- Another driver’s actions led to the wrongful death of your loved one
- The driver acted in a negligent fashion, which led to the fatality
- The deceased family member has surviving family members or beneficiaries
- You suffered monetary damages as a result of the losses
Who is Permitted to Bring a Wrongful Death Claim?
If you wish to be successful in a wrongful death claim, you must meet the requirements. This means that you must be an immediate family member of the person who lost their life in the accident such as a spouse, child, or parent. However, as long as you are a personal representative of the estate of the individual, you can bring a suit on behalf of the victim.
Help with a Wrongful Death Claim from an Attorney
Wrongful death claims in Florida are known for being entirely complex. Many victims who have lost somebody close to them in a fatal accident will be going through a complicated grieving process and might not be able to handle what is headed their way on their own. Because of this, our attorneys at Sheftall & Associates are here to help you in the midst of your personal injury claim. We have the resources necessary to help you receive compensation in the midst of your Florida car accident case. Please contact an accident attorney as soon as possible at (904) 575-9026 to find out how we can assist you.