Wrongful Death Attorneys in Jacksonville, FL | Jimenez Law Firm, P.A.

What is Wrongful Death?

A wrongful death occurs when a person’s life is cut short due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another. These cases often stem from a variety of incidents, including:

• Automobile Accidents: Reckless driving, DUIs, or distracted driving frequently lead to fatal crashes. Learn about car accident claims.
• Medical Malpractice: Misdiagnoses, surgical errors, or neglect by healthcare providers can have tragic outcomes.
• Workplace Accidents: Unsafe conditions or faulty equipment at job sites can result in fatalities. Explore workplace injury services.
• Defective Products: Faulty consumer goods, such as malfunctioning vehicles or hazardous appliances, may cause fatal injuries.
• Premises Liability: Unsafe property conditions, like unmarked hazards or poor maintenance, can lead to deadly accidents.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were over 3,000 fatal car accidents in Florida in 2022 alone. Many of these could have been prevented, highlighting the critical need for accountability.

Understanding Florida’s Wrongful Death Laws

Florida’s wrongful death laws aim to provide financial relief to surviving family members while holding negligent parties accountable. Here are key aspects of the law:

1. Eligible Parties to File a Claim:
   • Immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, have the legal right to file a wrongful death claim.
   • If no immediate family exists, other relatives or dependents may be eligible.
2. Statute of Limitations:
   • Florida law requires wrongful death claims to be filed within two years of the deceased’s passing. Read about filing timelines.
3. Recoverable Damages:
   • Economic damages, including funeral expenses, lost wages, and medical costs incurred before death.
   • Non-economic damages, such as loss of companionship, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
   • Punitive damages, which may apply in cases involving gross negligence or malicious intent.

Types of Compensation in Wrongful Death Claims

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit allows families to recover various types of damages, including:

Economic Damages

• Funeral and Burial Costs: The average funeral in Florida costs between $7,000 and $12,000, a burden many families are unprepared for.
• Medical Bills: Includes treatment costs incurred before the individual’s passing.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Compensation for income the deceased would have contributed to their household.

Non-Economic Damages

• Emotional Pain and Suffering: Addresses the grief and anguish experienced by surviving family members.
• Loss of Companionship: For spouses and children, the loss of guidance, love, and emotional support is immeasurable.

Punitive Damages

• These are awarded in extreme cases of gross negligence to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

Pursuing a wrongful death claim requires legal expertise and emotional sensitivity. At Jimenez Law Firm, P.A., our attorneys offer:

1. Thorough Case Investigation
   • Collaborating with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and financial analysts to build a strong case. Meet our expert legal team.
2. Legal Advocacy
   • Handling negotiations with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.
3. Court Representation
   • Aggressively pursuing justice in court when negotiations fall short.
4. Transparent Communication
   • Keeping you informed every step of the way, ensuring your voice is heard.