How Can a Car Accident Wrongful Death Lawyer Help My Family?
A wrongful death lawyer helps your family pursue justice and establish liability in a car accident claim. They secure financial compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional distress. The lawyer also manages insurance claims and oversees the legal process to protect your family’s financial interests.
At Todd Miner Law, we specialize in wrongful death cases resulting from fatal car accidents. With 30+ years of experience, our legal team provides legal representation to surviving family members during difficult times. We have a successful record of securing more than a billion dollars in wrongful death settlements and verdicts for our clients. Give us a call at 407-894-1480 for a free case consultation and let us help you hold the negligent party legally responsible.
How Can a Wrongful Death Lawyer Support Your Family After a Car Accident?
A wrongful death attorney can help your family through the complex legal process after a car accident, ensuring you receive fair compensation. They handle all the legal aspects, from gathering evidence and negotiating with the insurance company to representing you in court, providing essential support during this challenging time.
A loved one’s death is a tragic loss; in such a case, a wrongful death lawsuit lawyer works to protect your rights and provide financial support for medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of income. With their legal expertise, they handle all communications with the insurance company. Moreover, by carefully investigating the reason for the accident or collecting evidence like witness statements, they prove the responsible party’s negligence.
Hiring a personal injury lawyer at Todd Miner Law ensures your family is not rushed into accepting an unfair settlement. Instead, we work diligently to seek compensation for the deceased person’s family, including compensatory damages. Contact us now for a free case evaluation to secure a fair settlement for you and your family.
Who Is Eligible To File A Wrongful Death Claim For A Car Accident?
A wrongful death lawsuit is filed by the representative of the deceased person’s estate, not only the surviving family members. The representative, either named in the will or appointed by the court, files the lawsuit on behalf of the eligible family members.
Moreover, Florida Statutes 768.20 defines who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim and what types of damages they can seek. For example, the surviving spouse can seek a settlement for the loss of a spouse and emotional distress. Children may also claim damages for the loss of parental guidance. On the other hand, parents of a child under 21 can seek damages for the loss of their child’s services and support. However, if the deceased had no family, the estate’s personal representative can file an appeal for the case.

Does Every Fatal Accident Qualify For A Wrongful Death Claim In Florida?
No, not every fatal accident qualifies for a wrongful death claim in Florida. According to Florida Statute 768.19, the claim is valid only if the death results from another party’s negligence or intentional actions. For example, if the responsible driver’s actions, such as speeding or drunk driving, cause the accident, they can be held liable.
However, if the decedent’s actions contributed to the fatality or the death was from natural causes, the claim may not apply. Moreover, to qualify for a wrongful death suit, the surviving family members must provide evidence that shows the negligent actions. Essential evidence includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and accident scene footage.
However, without legal assistance, it will be difficult for you to file a wrongful death claim. At Todd Miner Law firm, we take immediate action after the accident and collect expert testimony reports to hold the negligent party liable. Schedule your consultation today and let us help you seek justice and pursue compensation for your punitive damages.
How Do Lawyers Prove Negligence in Fatal Car Accident Cases?
Lawyers prove negligence in fatal car accident cases by establishing four key elements: duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages. They also collect police reports, medical records, and expert testimony to demonstrate how the defendant’s actions caused the accident.
Here’s the detail of how each factor helps lawyers in proving negligence:
1. Duty of Care
Lawyers show that the at-fault driver had legal orders to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. Every driver has a responsibility to prevent harm to others on the road. To prove this, lawyers reference Florida Statute 316.183 for driving standards, speed limits, road signs, and traffic rules. If the driver violated any of these rules, an attorney may hold them liable.
2. Breach of Duty
To prove a breach of duty, lawyers demonstrate how the at-fault driver violated their responsibility. Common breaches include speeding (Statute 316.183), running red lights (Statute 316.075), or driving under the influence (Statute 316.193). Moreover, evidence such as police reports, witness statements, phone records, and surveillance footage proves negligence.
3. Causation
In fatal car accident cases, lawyers establish that the violation of duty was the reason for the accident. They give proof that shows the link between the driver’s negligence and the fatal crash. Experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, help demonstrate this connection. Moreover, establishing causation is essential to recover compensation for the economic damages.
4. Damages
In the case of a fatal accident, damages include funeral expenses, medical bills, economic loss, and the loss of companionship. Therefore, to seek financial compensation, lawyers prove these damages with medical records, death certificates, and financial documentation. However, taking early action is necessary so that lawyers can pursue legal options and get a fair settlement for your family’s loss.
What is the Statutory Limitation to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations to file a wrongful death claim is 2 years starting from the date of death. Missing this deadline can reduce your chances of getting compensation for the loss of a loved one. Therefore, acting quickly and filing your personal injury claim within the proper time frame is essential.
Florida Statute 95.11(4) sets the time limit for wrongful death claims. After two years, the court may dismiss your case, regardless of its merits. However, the two-year limit is strictly enforced; exceptions may apply. For example, the discovery rule allows additional time when the cause of death is unclear. Moreover, in cases involving adults under 21, different laws and time limits may apply, which extend the filing period. Therefore, consulting with Todd Miner Law immediately is essential to take legal action against liable parties. Our law firm handles the complexities of your case, ensuring that no minor details are overlooked. So, reach out today and let us work for the compensation your family deserves.
How Does Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System Affect Death Claims?
Florida’s no-fault insurance system limits compensation for death claims to PIP (Personal Injury Protection) benefits. These benefits cover medical expenses and lost income but do not cover pain and suffering. However, in severe injury or death cases, surviving relatives can pursue additional compensation to protect their legal rights.
Moreover, PIP provides a $5,000 death benefit for qualifying survivors, regardless of fault. For example, it covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, with a total benefit limit of $5000-$10,000 for medical costs, lost wages, and death. This insurance system aims to provide compensation for accident victims through their own insurance. It reduces delays while determining fault and pursuing claims against other parties. However, to sue for non-economic damages like pain and suffering, a “serious injury” must be proven. You may need to show a significant and permanent loss of an essential bodily function.
After a car accident, dealing with Florida’s insurance system can be tough. At Todd Miner Law, we’re here to help you get compensation for your severe injuries, lost wages, and more. Contact us today for a free case review, and let our experienced team guide you through the process.
How Do Wrongful Death Lawyers Calculate Compensation Amounts?
Wrongful death lawyers calculate compensation amounts by assessing the economic and non-economic losses caused by the victim’s death. This includes funeral costs, lost wages, medical expenses, and the pain and suffering of the grieving family. Moreover, lawyers use evidence, expert testimony, and state laws to determine a fair settlement.
Calculating compensation is a complex process that includes various factors such as the deceased’s age, health, and earning capacity, and the emotional impact on the family. The loss of a family member can severely affect the survivors’ emotional and financial well-being. In addition to economic loss, punitive damages are also awarded if the death was caused by negligence or wrongful conduct. Therefore, working closely with lawyers will help you build a strong case and let you secure the maximum compensation.

If You Lost A Loved One In A Car Accident, Todd Miner Law Can Help — Get A Free Case Review Now!
Losing a loved one in a car accident can leave you stressed out with grief. The sudden loss often brings emotional pain that’s difficult to describe, and the uncertainty about how to file a claim can be stressful. On top of that, you may face unexpected financial burdens, like funeral expenses and medical expenses, which can add additional stress. Without having a lawyer by your side, you will not get the compensation that your family deserves.
Therefore, at Todd Miner Law, we take legal responsibility for helping you seek justice. Our lawyers specialize in wrongful death cases, and we’re committed to supporting you throughout the legal process. Further, we handle every detail, from collecting essential evidence to negotiating with insurance companies for higher compensation. So, if your loved one is lost due to someone else’s negligence in a car accident, contact us at 407-894-1480 or visit our office for a meeting at 915 Outer Rd, Orlando, FL 32814.
FAQs
Are There Caps On Damages In Wrongful Death Lawsuits?
No, there are no caps on damages for wrongful death lawsuits; however, exceptions can exist in cases of medical malpractice. In such cases, the cap on non-economic losses is $1 million for a single plaintiff and $500,000 for each additional plaintiff. Hiring a wrongful death lawyer at Todd Miner Law can help assess the extent of damages based on the circumstances of the case.
How Does A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Differ From A Criminal Case?
A wrongful death lawsuit is a type of civil case, while a criminal case is a legal action initiated by the government. In a wrongful death case, the family or beneficiaries seek financial compensation for their loss. Whereas a criminal case punishes the responsible party for committing a crime. Moreover, the burden of showing proof in a civil case is less than in a criminal case.
Can A Wrongful Death Lawyer Help With The Probate Process?
Yes, a wrongful death lawyer can assist with the probate process, especially when it comes to dealing with the deceased’s estate. They can help you through the legal steps of identifying the beneficiaries and managing the estate’s assets. Furthermore, they fairly distribute the settlement amount in accordance with Florida law.
How Is A Death Settlement Divided Among Family Members?
In Florida, a wrongful death settlement is divided based on the deceased’s will or state law if no will exists. Normally, the surviving spouse, children, and other dependents receive the settlement. The court also determines the allocation, considering factors like the deceased’s relationship with the survivors. A wrongful death attorney will further ensure that the distribution of compensation is fair among family members.
Can A Wrongful Death Lawyer Help You With Funeral Expenses?
Yes, a wrongful death lawyer can help you claim funeral expenses as part of your wrongful death settlement. Funeral costs are considered economic damages and can be included in the compensation. Moreover, your lawyer will gather all necessary documentation and ensure that the full range of expenses is accounted for, seeking fair compensation for these costs.
Does Comparative Negligence Affect A Wrongful Death Claim?
Yes, comparative negligence can affect a wrongful death claim when the deceased was partially responsible for the accident. In such cases, the compensation amount will be reduced based on their percentage of fault. To understand this rule and to protect your claim, it’s important to have strong legal representation.
What Happens If The At-Fault Driver Is Deceased In A Car Accident?
If the at-fault driver dies in a car accident, you can still pursue a wrongful death claim against the driver’s estate or insurance. In such a case, a wrongful death attorney can help you identify the liable party and recover damages from the driver’s estate or applicable insurance policies.
