Two Die in Florida Crane Collapse on Construction Site

 Posted on June 09, 2025 in Uncategorized

A tragic crane collapse on a Florida construction site recently claimed the lives of two construction workers who were pouring concrete. Rain and strong winds are believed to have contributed to the collapse, but the case is still under investigation. Work on the site is currently suspended. 

For the families of workers who die on the job in terrible accidents like this, the aftermath is devastating, both emotionally and financially. Florida law offers several legal paths to pursue compensation, but determining the right course depends on the facts of the case, the parties involved, and the type of harm suffered. If you lost a loved one in an accident, call our Florida wrongful death attorneys now. We have the resources and skills to make sure your family gets the justice they deserve. 

When Can You File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida After a Worksite Accident?

In most cases, the death of an employee during the course of employment is initially covered by Florida’s workers’ compensation system. This provides certain benefits to surviving dependents, including funeral costs and a portion of lost wages. However, these benefits are limited and do not compensate for pain, suffering, or loss of companionship.

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, a wrongful death lawsuit may be filed if someone other than the employer is legally responsible. This often includes third parties such as:

• Equipment manufacturers

• Subcontractors

• Property owners

• Engineering firms or crane operators who were not employed by the same company

Can a Workers’ Compensation Claim and a Lawsuit Proceed Together?

Yes, but only under specific circumstances. Florida law prevents injured workers or their families from suing their own employers in most cases. However, a third-party claim may proceed alongside a workers’ comp death benefits claim if another party bears some responsibility for the accident.

For example, if the crane was manufactured with a defective part or had not been properly maintained by an outside service provider, a wrongful death lawsuit may be filed against that entity. Evidence from OSHA investigations, eyewitnesses, and forensic engineers often plays a critical role in building a third-party case.

How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida?

Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is usually two years from the date of death. For workers’ compensation death benefits, the claim must typically be filed within one year of the death or within two years of the date of the accident, depending on the circumstances.

Because evidence may disappear quickly at a construction site, especially in bad weather, it is important to begin an investigation as soon as possible.

What Kind of Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Case?

Florida’s wrongful death laws allow eligible survivors to recover:

• Loss of financial support and services

• Loss of companionship and protection

• Mental pain and suffering (for spouses and children)

• Medical and funeral expenses

• Loss of earnings and net accumulations the deceased would have contributed

An experienced personal injury lawyer can help surviving family members assess the full scope of their losses and pursue all available claims under both workers’ compensation and civil liability law.

Contact an Orlando, FL Construction Injury Lawyer

When workplace tragedies occur, the families affected need answers and action. Our firm offers outstanding customer service, handles large-scale injury and wrongful death cases, and has recovered billions for our clients. With 24/7/365 availability and contingency billing, we are ready when you need us most. Contact an Orlando, FL personal injury attorney at The Doan Law Firm by calling 407-289-0000 today to schedule your free consultation.