Orlando, FL Wrongful Death Attorneys

Trusted Attorneys Helping Family Members Address the Wrongful Death of Loved Ones in Orlando, FL

The death of a loved one can be one of the most devastating experiences anyone can face, especially when the death was sudden and unexpected and was caused by someone else's careless or wrongful actions. In these painful situations, families will not only face overwhelming grief, but they may also experience financial problems. A wrongful death claim will provide surviving family members with the opportunity to pursue justice and recover the financial support they need.

At The Doan Law Firm, our attorneys serve families in Orlando as they address the losses they have suffered due to the wrongful death of a loved one. We understand that monetary payments cannot make up for the loss of a family member, but taking steps to obtain compensation for a wrongful death can help families avoid financial problems caused by their loss while giving them a sense of closure. We will provide compassionate guidance through every stage of the legal process, making sure families are supported while we pursue justice on their behalf.

Common Situations Leading to Wrongful Death

There are numerous forms of negligence that can lead to wrongful deaths. Some of the cases in which people may suffer fatal injuries include:

Car Accidents: Fatal crashes may occur due to the negligence of other drivers, which may include distracted driving, speeding, intoxicated driving, or other violations of traffic laws.
Truck Accidents: Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks are more likely to cause fatal injuries in collisions with smaller vehicles. These incidents may occur due to issues such as driver fatigue, improperly loaded cargo, or mechanical failures.
Pedestrian Accidents: People who are struck by vehicles while walking are more likely to suffer fatal injuries. Negligent drivers may hit pedestrians when they ignore traffic signals or fail to respect the right of way of pedestrians in crosswalks.
Premises Liability: Fatal falls, fires, drownings, or exposures to hazardous conditions on someone else's property may occur because of the negligence of property owners.
Amusement Park Accidents: Ride malfunctions, operator negligence, or other safety issues can result in fatal injuries in theme parks and attractions throughout the Orlando area.

Types of Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Claims

A wrongful death claim allows family members to receive compensation for the losses they have experienced as a result of their loved one's death. The damages that these claims can address may include:

Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency care and medical treatment provided prior to the person's death
Loss of Income and Financial Support: Compensation for wages the deceased would have earned and contributed to the household
Funeral and Burial Costs: Expenses related to memorial services, burial, and cremation
Loss of Companionship: Damages for the emotional loss of love, guidance, protection, and support
Mental and Emotional Suffering: Compensation for the psychological pain experienced by survivors
Loss of Services: The value of household or caregiving contributions the deceased provided to their family

Our attorneys work closely with economists and financial experts to ensure that all of a family's losses will be properly valued and reflected in a wrongful death claim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death in Florida

Q

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?

Under Florida law, the personal representative of the deceased person's estate may file a wrongful death claim. The representative will pursue the claim on behalf of the deceased person's surviving family members, which will usually include their spouse and children. Parents of a minor child who was wrongfully killed may also be eligible for compensation.

Q

What Is the Time Limit to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In Florida, a two-year statute of limitations will usually apply in wrongful death cases. Claims must be filed within two years after the date on which the victim died. After a person has been wrongfully killed, it is critical to get legal help from an attorney to ensure that all deadlines will be met during a claim.

Q

Is a Wrongful Death Claim Different From a Criminal Case?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit, and it is separate from any criminal proceedings that may arise from the same incident. Even if no criminal charges are filed, or if the person who was responsible for a person's death is not convicted, family members may still take legal action to recover financial compensation through the civil court system.

Q

Can Punitive Damages Be Awarded in a Wrongful Death Claim?

If a person's death was caused by extreme negligence, or if the person responsible for a wrongful death intentionally meant to harm the victim, a wrongful death claim may include punitive damages that are meant to punish the wrongdoer. For example, a person who intentionally harmed someone else and caused their death may be required to pay punitive damages. These damages serve as a form of accountability for especially egregious behavior.

Contact Our Orlando, Florida Wrongful Death Attorneys

The death of a loved one can never be undone, but pursuing justice through the legal system can help provide answers, accountability, and financial relief for family members during an incredibly painful time. At The Doan Law Firm, our Orlando wrongful death lawyers provide grieving families with compassionate legal help, working to ensure that they can move forward after experiencing a tragic loss. Contact us and arrange a free consultation by calling 407-289-0000.