Sarasota Wrongful Death Lawyers
Losing a loved one due to the wrongful conduct of another is a devastating experience. At Buckman & Buckman, P.A., our Sarasota wrongful death attorneys understand the profound impact such a loss can have on your family. When you’re ready to take legal action, we’re here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
While no amount of money can truly make up for the loss of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim is an important step towards holding the responsible party accountable and securing the financial support your family needs to move forward.
What Constitutes a Wrongful Death Case in Florida?
Under Florida law, a wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another party. Common causes of wrongful death include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents caused by negligent drivers.
- Medical Malpractice: Mistakes or negligence by healthcare providers leading to fatal outcomes.
- Workplace Accidents: Fatal injuries occurring in unsafe work environments.
- Defective Products: Deaths resulting from dangerous or defective products.
- Criminal Acts: Homicides or other violent acts leading to death.
- Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse: Elderly residents suffering fatal harm due to mistreatment.
In Florida, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate is the only individual legally allowed to file a wrongful death claim. This representative must identify all eligible survivors, including the deceased’s spouse, children, parents, and any blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were financially dependent on the deceased.
Understanding the Florida Wrongful Death Act
The Florida Wrongful Death Act outlines who can file a claim and what damages may be recovered. The damages awarded in a wrongful death case can vary depending on the relationship between the deceased and the survivors, and may include:
- Medical Expenses: Costs incurred for the treatment of the deceased before death.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Compensation for the costs associated with laying the deceased to rest.
- Loss of Income and Support: The financial contribution the deceased would have provided to their family.
- Loss of Companionship and Protection: Compensation for the emotional and relational loss suffered by the survivors.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the mental anguish experienced by the survivors due to the loss.
For example, if a spouse is killed in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, the surviving spouse and minor children may be eligible to recover damages for lost income, loss of companionship, and the emotional distress caused by the sudden loss of a loved one.
Complexities in Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
Wrongful death claims are complex and often involve navigating both personal injury and estate law. In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of death. However, certain exceptions may apply, which makes it crucial to consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.
Example Case: In a recent case, a family in Sarasota lost their father in a tragic workplace accident. The employer tried to deny responsibility, claiming the death was an “unavoidable accident.” However, our legal team was able to prove that the employer had failed to follow safety protocols, leading to a successful wrongful death claim that provided the family with the financial security they needed during a difficult time.
Why You Need a Sarasota Wrongful Death Lawyer
Law enforcement and government investigations may result in penalties or sanctions against the responsible party, but they won’t secure compensation for your family’s loss. That’s why working with an experienced wrongful death lawyer is critical.
At Buckman & Buckman, P.A., we offer:
- Personalized Attention: You will work directly with a knowledgeable attorney who will keep you informed and involved at every stage of your case.
- Thorough Investigation: Our team will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of your loved one’s death, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts to build a strong case.
- Aggressive Representation: We will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation your family deserves.
Steps to Take After a Wrongful Death in Sarasota
If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongful act, it’s important to take action quickly:
- Secure Legal Representation: Contact a wrongful death attorney to discuss your case and begin the legal process.
- Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documents, including medical records, death certificates, and any evidence related to the incident.
- Avoid Settling with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may attempt to offer quick settlements that do not reflect the true value of your claim. Consult with your attorney before accepting any offers.
Contact Our Sarasota Wrongful Death Lawyers Today
At Buckman & Buckman, P.A., we are committed to helping families in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, North Port, and surrounding areas seek justice for their loved ones. We understand the emotional and financial challenges you are facing, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
If you believe your loved one’s death was the result of someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Let us help you navigate this difficult time and secure the justice your family deserves.