Losing a loved one is always devastating, but when that loss occurs due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, it can be overwhelming and raise complex legal questions. At Boatman Ricci, we provide compassionate and experienced legal representation for families pursuing wrongful death claims in Naples and throughout Florida. Our attorneys guide clients through every step of the process, helping them seek justice and recover compensation for their loss.
Understanding Wrongful Death in Florida
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies as a result of another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. Florida law allows certain family members and dependents to pursue compensation for damages caused by the untimely death of a loved one.
Florida Statutes § 768.16-768.26 governs wrongful death claims and outlines who may file a claim and what types of damages may be recovered. Eligible plaintiffs typically include:
- Spouses
- Children (including adopted and stepchildren)
- Parents of minors or dependent adult children
The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to provide financial relief and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death cases can arise from a variety of incidents, including:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, and motorcycle collisions caused by negligent drivers.
- Medical Malpractice: Fatal injuries resulting from negligent medical care or surgical errors.
- Workplace Accidents: Deaths caused by unsafe working conditions or employer negligence.
- Defective Products: Injuries or deaths caused by unsafe or poorly designed products.
- Premises Liability: Fatal accidents occurring due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property.
Identifying the cause and establishing liability is critical to pursuing a successful claim.
Damages in Florida Wrongful Death Cases
Florida law allows eligible family members to recover a range of damages in wrongful death cases, including:
- Loss of Support and Services: Compensation for financial contributions the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of Companionship and Care: Emotional damages for the loss of love, companionship, and guidance.
- Medical and Funeral Expenses: Costs incurred for medical care leading up to death and burial or cremation expenses.
Each case is unique, and damages are calculated based on the circumstances and impact on the surviving family members.
The Wrongful Death Legal Process in Florida
Pursuing a wrongful death claim involves several critical steps:
- Investigation and Evidence Collection: Gathering accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and other documentation to establish liability.
- Filing the Complaint: Filing a wrongful death lawsuit in the appropriate Florida court within the statute of limitations, typically two years from the date of death.
- Negotiation or Litigation: Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations, though some require trial.
- Recovery of Damages: If successful, the court or settlement provides financial compensation to eligible family members.
Experienced legal guidance is essential to navigate these steps and protect your rights during this difficult time.
How Boatman Ricci Can Help
At Boatman Ricci, we understand that wrongful death cases are emotionally challenging. Our attorneys provide personalized, compassionate guidance while aggressively advocating for your legal rights. We help families in Naples and Southwest Florida:
- Investigate the circumstances of the death thoroughly.
- Identify all responsible parties, including corporations, employers, or individuals.
- Calculate all potential damages to ensure full compensation.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.
- Represent clients in court when litigation is necessary.
Our goal is to provide both legal support and peace of mind during a time of grief, allowing families to focus on healing while we handle the legal process.
Contact Your Trusted Wrongful Death Lawyer in Naples
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is a life-altering event. Florida’s wrongful death laws allow families to seek justice and hold negligent parties accountable, but pursuing a claim requires careful legal guidance. At Boatman Ricci, our team of attorneys in Naples is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims and achieve the results they deserve.
If your family has suffered a loss due to another party’s actions, contact Boatman Ricci today. We can review your case, explain your rights, and guide you through every step of the wrongful death claims process.