Lost a Loved One in a Fatal Crash in Orlando? Call our Auto Accident Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

A fatal crash leaves families facing unanswered questions while insurance companies move fast to limit liability. Without strong legal guidance, you risk losing compensation even before fault is fully understood.

At Todd Miner Law, our wrongful death lawyers understand how fatal auto accident claims are evaluated and challenged. We step in early to secure crash evidence, control insurer communications, and prevent fault from being shifted onto your loved one.

Call 407-894-1480 for a free consultation with our Orlando wrongful death lawyer.

Lost a Loved One in a Fatal Crash in Orlando? Call our Auto Accident Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

A fatal crash leaves families facing unanswered questions while insurance companies move fast to limit liability. Without strong legal guidance, you risk losing compensation even before fault is fully understood.

At Todd Miner Law, our wrongful death lawyers understand how fatal auto accident claims are evaluated and challenged. We step in early to secure crash evidence, control insurer communications, and prevent fault from being shifted onto your loved one.

Call 407-894-1480 for a free consultation with our Orlando wrongful death lawyer.

Excellent
Todd Miner Law4.9
Based on 988 reviews
Jessica Santiago
I had a great experience with Todd Miner Law Firm. I was in a car accident the beginning of 2026 and the team took over everything so I could focus on my journey to healing and recovery. Mr. Mark Ahrens and Stephanie Velez were such great help throughout the process. I hope I won’t have a need for them again, but if I did, I would not hesitate reaching out to them.
Ed Bell
Excellent service will work with them again thank you Courtney
Anna Gunn
I have had the most positive experience working with Todd Miner after my car accident. Specifically, Mark Ahrens has been a major help to me, I couldn’t recommend them more. Thank you for supporting me through this process!
Cindy Bermudez
Today I had the opportunity to speak to Todd Minor and let me tell you this man knows his stuff. He was very transparent and gave me guidance that not even Morgan and Morgan could do. This man is very unique and seems very skilled if I were you, I would hire him immediately.
Brandon Clark
Mr Miner and his attorneys are the best ever so communicative Brandon and Evonne are phenomenal they are a professional law firm I would not choose no other!I am very happy;
lucas locas
really nice lawyer and very helpful
Angela Briddell
I highly recommend Todd Miner Law for any of your legal needs. From the moment I spoke with Mr. Miner on the phone and all the wonderful work done on my case by attorney Mark Ahrens Esq and his paralegal Stephanie, I know I was in good hands. They cared very much about my well-being and communicated that was above everything they were working on for me, was that I healed and became well from my car accident. No job too little or too small! I am very pleased working with this law firm for over a year too. I hope I don't need them in the future; however, if I do, I know I will be asking them to represent me again.
Hayden Tines
Todd was nice, he took the time to talk to me for 20 minutes or so to help guide me in the right direction, I was recently in a car accident and it’s not major, and I was practically clueless to the steps I should take. After talking to me I now know more than before. He was very helpful with information I may need for my situation.
Umesh Patel
Mark Ahrens and Stephanie Velez were splendid in handling my case. I was absolutely pleased with their sincere efforts in getting the right result.
Timothy Apwisch
I WAS TREATED WITH RESPECT AND IMPORTANCE. THAT MEANS A LOT TODAY! I RECIEVED THE MAX ALLOWED AND COULDNT HAVE GOTTEN ANY MORE ANYWHERE ELSE. THESE GUYS ARE TOP SHELF AND I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM! THE BEST AROUND, HANDS DOWN. IF I'M EVER IN NEED AGAIN, THEY'RE MY GUYS NOW! THANK YOU, TODD MINER LAW! THEY ALSO NETWORK ANIMALS IN NEED. LIKE US. GOTTA LOVE THAT HEART! ❤️
Gail Stout
We were involved in an escalator accident in the Atlanta airport. I had seen the commercial quite a few times, but I was never in a situation where I needed one. Last night I was chatting about this online, which I thought was a bot. It was not just a bot. it was not, it was Attorney Miner himself. The chat was to go to the walk-in clinic for the pain and to call his office to speak with Elina after we were home. I spoke with Elina, and she couldn't have been more patient with me, and so sweet and wants to be sure she gets all the answers for us. Since our accident was in Georgia, we need to have an attorney in Georgia. Attorney Miner is going to make a personal call to an attorney in Georgia himself! When I was chatting last night, I asked who I was communicating with, and it was Attorney Miner himself. I hope I never need an attorney, but if I did or anyone I know, I will always refer to Attorney Miner. You will be in good hands with Elina! If we could give more stars, we would. Thank you, Attorney Miner and Elina!
Maddie Walker
After learning my car was deemed a total loss and the driver at fault did not have enough money in property damage to cover my claim, I truly believed I was going to be losing a significant amount of money for an accident I didn't cause. Todd Miner changed my perspective completely. Todd Miner is your person to guide you through auto accident claims and make sure you are getting what's rightfully owed to you. He personally assisted me in making sure I was asking the right questions and using the correct verbiage to ensure I wasn't being taken advantage of by any insurance policies involved. I had no idea I had other options to explore, but Todd provided super clear information on how to navigate these tricky insurance claims. He saved me $$$$ (no exaggeration) all while providing easy and stress-free interactions. Todd Miner Law values their clients like none other I've experienced. Thank you, Todd!
Donna Walker
There are a lot of commercials out there for law offices that "care", or are "looking out for YOU"....let me tell you, Todd Miner is the real deal. I called at 3:30 on a Friday afternoon before a three day holiday weekend, because after being hit from behind by a driver who had trash for insurance, their insurance company as well as my own insurance company were pressuring me to quickly agree to items before the long holiday weekend, and none of the outcomes offered were remotely acceptable. Mr. Miner himself took my call after I gave details to his very friendly and compassionate associate, and for 35 minutes on a Friday afternoon when most people would be bolting out of the office for the holiday weekend, he gave me help when he had nothing to gain from it. Other firms we called either ignored us or blew us off because they didn't have anything to gain by taking our case. If I or anyone I knew needed a personal injury attorney, calling this law firm is the first phone call I would make.
Carl Prince
I really appreciate that Todd personally took the time of day to speak with me on the particulars of my case and advise different avenues to pursue, thank you so much!
Erick Pravisay
Thank you for Attorney, Mark and Stephanie for working on my case settlement. They had done a great job for me.
Dawne Simpson
Thank you to Mark Aaron's and Ms Stephanie with my case. I was hit from behind by a car with minimal insurance. I wasn't looking for a bunch of money, I just wanted the doctors paid and it would make me happy. They took care of all the bills and I still got a check. I thank you again for all of the time spent on my case and talking to me. I give them 5 stars
LENING
Mark Ahrens was super helpful and helped me through the whole process as well as Stephanie, overall 5 stars treatment
Nicole Dawson Webster
Mark Ahrens was recommend by a friend to me. I appreciate that he took the time to answer my questions. He was also personable and friendly Great experience!
Kyri W
Setha Samnang
I would like to thank Attorney Todd Miner for handling the accident cases for both my wife and me. We truly appreciate everything he and his team have done for us. They kept in touch throughout the process and guided us every step of the way, making everything much easier to understand. If you ever need help with an auto accident case, I highly recommend Attorney Todd Miner.
Pedro Irizarry
I’m very grateful to Mark Ahrens and Stephanie Velez-Raghunandan at Todd Miner for their work on my hit-and-run case. From the beginning, they stayed persistent and didn’t give up, even when things weren’t straightforward. They kept me informed throughout the process and handled everything professionally. I truly appreciate their dedication and would recommend them to anyone needing reliable legal help.
Sasha Black
I would like to take a moment to recognize Courtney Escoffery, Pre-Suit Paralegal at Todd Miner Law, for the outstanding service provided throughout my case. Although Courtney was assigned a couple of months into my case, the level of professionalism, communication, and consistency shown from the very beginning of our interaction was truly exceptional. Every question I had was addressed promptly, and I was kept informed with regular updates, which made the entire process feel smooth and reassuring. Courtney’s dedication and attention to detail made a significant difference in my experience. I always felt supported and confident knowing my case was in capable hands. From start to finish, the service provided was nothing short of phenomenal. I am sincerely grateful for the care and effort that was put into handling my case. Thank you for making what could have been a stressful experience feel manageable and well-handled.
MARO
I had an amazing experience with Todd Miner Law after my hit and run accident. From start to finish, they made the entire process smooth, stress free, and handled everything professionally. A special thank you to Mark Ahrens and Stephanie for always keeping me updated and making sure I understood every step. They truly care about their clients and go above and beyond to get the best results. Thanks to them, I was able to receive my settlement without any headaches. I highly recommend Todd Miner Law to anyone who needs a reliable and dedicated legal team. Thank you again for everything!
J J
Mr Miner took his time with explaining my options, even though my case can't be helped. I will take that advise. Thank you.
Edgar Jaramillo-Vasconez
Priya Ramrattan and the team at Todd Miner Law took great care of me during a very challenging time. They showed genuine respect and care for me during the time they were taking care of my legal representation. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone, or use them again should I ever need legal representation in the aftermath of an accident. Ed Vasconez
Tahj Booker
I would like to say thank you to Chris McGuire, Trenton Swan, and the rest of Todd Minor Law Firm team. Thanks to them I feel like my life is back on track where it was supposed to be before the accident. If I could give them 10 stars I would.
Julia Hodges
Good communication, and I had LOTS of questions. Chris was very patient, professional and knowledgeable. He made the whole process less traumatic. Well above a mere 5 stars.
Thebestduo18
Highly recommend this legal team! After the accident we were understandably overwhelmed, but working with this team made all the difference. They were responsive, organized, and truly dedicated from start to finish. Special shout out to Chris Mcquire and Todd Miner. Everyone was always professional, easy to reach, and incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. They made sure nothing fell through the cracks and kept everything moving smoothly. My family and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you want a team that’s reliable, attentive, and gets results, this is the one to go with. Definitely a 5-star experience!
Elaine Febo
Excellent service! Very professional, attentive, and reliable. I highly recommend!
Ladwinger Villalobos
Excelente, me sentí muy cómodo!! Siempre me informaron sobre el caso hasta que llegó el final.
Tammi Riesner
Five stars for Tod Miner Law! Ivonne was amazing to work with, she was extremely responsive and kept me informed every step of the way. They successfully got me the max settlement for my car. I’m very happy with the outcome and the level of service I received.
Pete Nastase
I texted him with a question and he called back in minutes. He took time to answer my question! He is a no- nonsense guy. Straight forward answers. If I ever need him I will hire him. Thanks
Brenda Ploudre
I was very impressed and happy with their handling of my case. Mr. Todd Miner called me back personally to discuss my options after I left a message on their voicemail. Mr. Mark Ahrens handled my account with empathy for me. Stephanie worked diligently on my case and medical bills. I cannot say enough good things about Todd Miner Law. If thank them for all their hard work on my behalf.
Erik Stein
I was in an auto accident in January 2026. I contacted the Todd Miner law firm the same day of the accident. Within 5 minutes Todd Miner was on the phone with me and took almost 30 minutes out of his Saturday to speak to me about the accident. Following my conversation with Todd I had the opportunity to work with Mark Ahrens and Stephanie Velez and they went above and beyond to get everything taken care of. They answered all of my questions, kept me informed with updates, and streamlined the entire process in a way I wouldn't be able to do myself. Dealing with insurance companies can be a complex and difficult process that takes considerable time and effort. Mark and Stephanie handled everything and allowed me to focus on recovering from my injuries. I'm thankful for their help and while I hope to never be in another accident again, if I am, I wont hesitate to reach out to them again.
B Heck
I simply went to Todd Miner's website and competed a text message on my situation. Todd (himself) called me and spent 20 minutes discussing my situation even though he isn't representing me. That is unbelievable that in today's society someone is actually willing to help and listen!! If there was a 10 star rating I would give it to him. Easily understood and the advice was solid. Thanks Todd for your time and help! It was truly needed.
Damon Gordon
Todd Minor is a stand up man, he's honest, fair, very protective of his clients and professional. I had a case with him regarding my minor & during the inquiry process he reached out himself multiple times assuring me that we would be in good hands & I'll just say this he himself holds good on his promises & commitment.
Colette Angelique
I was referred to Tod Minor Law by a friend of mine, and was very glad i followed through with them for my auto accident claim. Chris was the head communicator for my claim and arranged everything for my rehab and chiropractor appointments. highly reccomend!
Masae Shimomoto
I contacted this law office after I was involved in an accident, and I’m very glad I did. From the beginning, everyone was attentive and patient, taking the time to listen carefully to my situation. The paralegal, Stephanie, was especially kind and kept in regular communication with me throughout the process. Both she and the attorney, Mark, clearly explained what to expect, which helped ease my worries. Since this was my first injury case in Florida, their guidance made a big difference and allowed me to focus on my recovery. My case did take some time, but in the end, I was able to receive compensation for the accident. When I met Mark in person, he was a true gentleman who genuinely cares about his clients. I highly recommend this law office!
Larry Muse
I am giving Todd Miner Law five stars – the most one can receive in these reviews. If it were possible, I would score his firm much higher, based on my personal experience with him and his team. Without going into great detail, I was struck by a car and my left leg was injured. After being treated at the local ER, along with other instructions, I was advised to follow-up with my Primary Care Physician. It was when I attempted to make that appointment that I quickly learned my doctor, and many others, will not treat vehicle accident patients. This made getting the treatment I needed after leaving the ER a struggle at best. That’s when I decided I needed help, and I reached out to Todd Miner’s office. In less than 30 minutes, Todd Miner himself called me. He listened to me and then told me he and his team would take good care of me … and they did. I think it was that afternoon that Mark Ahrens, Esq. reached out to me. In less than a week, thanks to their help and intervention, I was seen by a Physician who ordered the tests necessary to determine exactly what was wrong with my leg and what treatment I needed. Unfortunately, the test results showed surgery was required. Throughout this process, surgery, weeks of physical therapy, follow-up appointments, etc. Marc and his team were with me every step of the way. My well-being and recovery were as much a priority for them as it was for me. They consistently communicated with me - keeping me updated and informed as my case moved forward. I also have to commend Stephanie Velez-Raghunandan who works with Marc. She too was in constant communication with me and quick to respond to any questions or concerns I had. Todd Miner and his team exceeded my expectations. Calling his office was the best decision I could have made for myself and my family. I highly recommend Todd Miner Law. Todd and his team really are “on your side” and will take great care of you.
Susan M Barnes
Hi, I have to say that Mark Ahrens and Stephanie, his assistant, were excellent helping me with my settlement. They fought hard for me for which I am grateful and I highly recommend them.
Lester Trotman
Stephanie and Mark were great. They worked extremely hard on my case and kept me informed every step of the way..
Brock
Trustworthy, honest, experienced. Communication at the start was lacking, but toward end it got better.
Rajan Joshi
As a criminal defense lawyer who owns his own firm, I have referred many of my clients to Todd Miner who needed a personal injury attorney. Todd is an amazing lawyer and has an incredible staff. His office personnel is extremely friendly and professional. What I respect about Todd the most is I can text or call him on a Saturday afternoon, And he will immediately respond. He will call the potential clients himself right away and tell thoroughly evaluate their cases. I highly recommend him and his team of exceptionally talented lawyers and support staff!!!
Ruth
Mark Ahrens at Todd Miner Law Firm was extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and professional throughout the entire process. He took the time to answer all of my questions thoroughly and made sure I understood every step. I truly appreciated his expertise and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Erica Tuggerson
My experience in March 2025 with Attorney Todd Miner was very good! His staff, Jennifer was always supportive and helpful, eager to answer questions or concerns. I would highly recommend this attorney office. Blessings continuously to this Attorney office and staff.
kelly gull
Thank you for helping me in the past with the employer who left me in the hospital injured, alone, and unwilling to take care of my hospital bills.
Herb C
I am writing this review of Todd Miner Law so the public can get a perspective of an actual client’s experience following a car accident. My wife and I were hit by a driver resulting in our car rolling over two times. Medical questions aside, the trauma of the legal aspects after this accident were troubling. Being new to the state of Florida, we had no legal representation. One only has to watch television to see the various alternatives that are available to you. That being said, Todd Miner was the one that showed an interest in assisting us no matter what the possible outcome might be. To be honest, we were sort of lost in all the details that started to arise and needed help. Todd Miner came to the rescue. Attorney, Mark Aherns and his assistant, Stephanie Valez-Raghunandan were terrific in handling all the details that needed solved. My wife and I are grateful for their assistance; without them we would never have been able to reach this point of conclusion. Thank you, Todd, Mark, and Stephanie. We recommend them highly to anyone in need.

How Our Wrongful Death Auto Accident Lawyers Can Help Your Family

With more than 30 years of experience handling wrongful death cases, our lawyers understand how these claims are evaluated from day one. In addition, our team’s background in insurance defense provides us with direct insight into how insurers assess liability and seek to limit payouts. This experience allows us to protect your family’s interests and pursue the full compensation you rightfully deserve.

Our wrongful death auto accident lawyers help by:

  • Managing all legal filings, deadlines, and procedural requirements
  • Coordinating with probate and estate representatives when required
  • Building a damages claim that reflects financial loss and long-term impact
  • Addressing coverage issues involving multiple insurance policies
  • Preparing cases for negotiation or trial when liability is disputed
  • Providing clear guidance so you understand each stage before decisions are made

If you lost a loved one in a fatal auto accident and need legal guidance, call 407-894-1480 to speak with our wrongful death lawyers.

Speak to an Attorney

How Our Wrongful Death Auto Accident Lawyers Can Help Your Family

With more than 30 years of experience handling wrongful death cases, our lawyers understand how these claims are evaluated from day one. In addition, our team’s background in insurance defense provides us with direct insight into how insurers assess liability and seek to limit payouts. This experience allows us to protect your family’s interests and pursue the full compensation you rightfully deserve.

Our wrongful death auto accident lawyers help by:

  • Managing all legal filings, deadlines, and procedural requirements
  • Coordinating with probate and estate representatives when required
  • Building a damages claim that reflects financial loss and long-term impact
  • Addressing coverage issues involving multiple insurance policies
  • Preparing cases for negotiation or trial when liability is disputed
  • Providing clear guidance so you understand each stage before decisions are made

If you lost a loved one in a fatal auto accident and need legal guidance, call 407-894-1480 to speak with our wrongful death lawyers.

Free Legal Consultation

What If the At-Fault Driver Also Died in the Accident?

In Florida, you can still pursue a wrongful death claim even if the at-fault driver also died in the accident. Their death changes how the claim proceeds, but it does not eliminate liability. In these cases, compensation may be pursued through:

  • At-fault driver’s auto insurance
  • The driver’s estate through probate
  • Your own UM/UIM coverage

However, each option follows a different legal process and affects how compensation is recovered. Our wrongful death lawyers guide your family through the available recovery options and pursue maximum compensation.

How a Lawyer Helps Open an Estate in a Wrongful Death Case?

A lawyer helps open an estate in a wrongful death lawsuit by handling the probate steps needed to file the claim correctly. Since Florida law allows only a court-appointed personal representative to bring the case, opening an estate is often the first step.

The lawyer prepares and files probate paperwork, works with the court to appoint the personal representative, and manages key deadlines.

If the estate is not opened properly, the lawsuit can be delayed or dismissed. Legal guidance keeps the process on track and protects your family’s right to compensation.

What If the At-Fault Driver Was a Minor?

A wrongful death claim can still be pursued if the at-fault driver was a minor. Because minors often drive under another person’s authority or insurance, liability may extend beyond the driver.

In these cases, responsibility may involve:

  • A parent or legal guardian
  • The owner of the vehicle that the minor was driving
  • An applicable auto or household insurance policy

Determining which party is legally responsible depends on whether permission, supervision, and coverage are present. Therefore, our attorneys carefully evaluate these factors to build the claim and pursue compensation.

How Is Compensation Divided Among Surviving Family Members?

In Florida, wrongful death compensation is divided according to state law, not private agreements between family members. The personal representative files the claim, and damages are allocated based on each survivor’s relationship to the deceased and the losses they suffered.

Key factors that affect how compensation is divided include:

  • Financial dependence, such as lost income or support
  • Relationship to the deceased, including spouses, children, and parents
  • Emotional losses, like loss of companionship or parental guidance

Based on these factors, our attorneys carefully structure claims to reduce disputes and ensure proper compensation distribution.

What If the At-Fault Driver Also Died in the Accident?

What If the At Fault Driver Also Died in the Accident.In Florida, you can still pursue a wrongful death claim even if the at-fault driver also died in the accident. Their death changes how the claim proceeds, but it does not eliminate liability. In these cases, compensation may be pursued through:

  • At-fault driver’s auto insurance
  • The driver’s estate through probate
  • Your own UM/UIM coverage

However, each option follows a different legal process and affects how compensation is recovered. Our wrongful death lawyers guide your family through the available recovery options and pursue maximum compensation.

Talk to a Lawyer

How a Lawyer Helps Open an Estate in a Wrongful Death Case?How a Lawyer Helps Open an Estate in a Wrongful Death Case.

A lawyer helps open an estate in a wrongful death lawsuit by handling the probate steps needed to file the claim correctly. Since Florida law allows only a court-appointed personal representative to bring the case, opening an estate is often the first step.

The lawyer prepares and files probate paperwork, works with the court to appoint the personal representative, and manages key deadlines.

If the estate is not opened properly, the lawsuit can be delayed or dismissed. Legal guidance keeps the process on track and protects your family’s right to compensation.

Talk to a Lawyer

What If the At-Fault Driver Was a Minor?What If the At Fault Driver Was a Minor.

A wrongful death claim can still be pursued if the at-fault driver was a minor. Because minors often drive under another person’s authority or insurance, liability may extend beyond the driver.

In these cases, responsibility may involve:

  • A parent or legal guardian
  • The owner of the vehicle that the minor was driving
  • An applicable auto or household insurance policy

Determining which party is legally responsible depends on whether permission, supervision, and coverage are present. Therefore, our attorneys carefully evaluate these factors to build the claim and pursue compensation.

Talk to a Lawyer

How Is Compensation Divided Among Surviving Family Members?How Is Compensation Divided Among Surviving Family Members.

In Florida, wrongful death compensation is divided according to state law, not private agreements between family members. The personal representative files the claim, and damages are allocated based on each survivor’s relationship to the deceased and the losses they suffered.

Key factors that affect how compensation is divided include:

  • Financial dependence, such as lost income or support
  • Relationship to the deceased, including spouses, children, and parents
  • Emotional losses, like loss of companionship or parental guidance

Based on these factors, our attorneys carefully structure claims to reduce disputes and ensure proper compensation distribution.

Talk to a Lawyer

What Makes a Fatal Auto Accident a Wrongful Death Case?

A fatal auto accident qualifies as a wrongful death case when another party’s negligence causes your loved one’s death. This means your loved one would have had the legal right to file a personal injury claim if they had survived the crash. When that condition is met, the claim shifts to the survivors through Florida’s Wrongful Death Act.

Negligence in fatal auto accidents often involves violations of traffic laws, such as speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, or failure to yield. In commercial vehicle cases, negligence may also include unsafe hiring, poor maintenance, or violations of federal trucking regulations. When these actions directly cause a fatal crash, they form the legal basis for a wrongful death claim.

However, to pursue a wrongful death case, you must show several key facts, including:

  • Negligence: Another party acted carelessly, recklessly, or unlawfully.
  • Causation: That conduct directly caused your loved one’s fatal injuries.
  • Damages: The death resulted in real losses to you and your family.
  • Financial loss: You lost income, benefits, or services your loved one provided.
  • Personal loss: You suffered loss of companionship, guidance, or support, based on your relationship.

If the legal standard for wrongful death is not established, insurers may deny liability or reduce compensation. That is why working with an experienced Orlando wrongful death lawyer is critical to reviewing fault, statutory violations, and evidence early in the case.

Free Legal Consultation

What Types of Auto Accidents Can Lead to a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim can arise from any fatal auto accident caused by negligence. These crashes happen on highways, intersections, and local roads throughout Central Florida, including Oviedo, Longwood, Sanford, Winter Park, and Daytona Beach.

Fatal auto accidents that commonly form the basis of wrongful death claims include:

Each of these fatal crashes raises different liability and insurance issues under Florida law. Call 407-894-1480 to speak with our Orlando wrongful death lawyer about your claim and available compensation.

Free Legal Consultation

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Fatal Auto Accident?

The driver who caused the crash is often the primary party held responsible in a fatal auto accident. However, liability may extend beyond one driver when other actions or failures contributed to your loved one’s death. 

Depending on how the crash occurred, responsible parties may include:

  • Negligent drivers: Drivers who were speeding, distracted, impaired, or violated traffic laws.
  • Employers: Companies may be liable when a driver was working or operating a company vehicle.
  • Vehicle owners: Owners may be responsible when they allow unsafe or unqualified drivers to use their vehicles.
  • Vehicle manufacturers: Defective brakes, airbags, tires, or safety systems may expose manufacturers to liability.
  • Maintenance providers: Faulty repairs or poor maintenance can make a mechanic or service provider responsible.
  • Rideshare or delivery companies: Uber, Lyft, or delivery services may carry liability when drivers are on duty.
  • Government entities: Dangerous road design, missing signs, or poor maintenance may place liability on public agencies.

Identifying every responsible party is critical because each may carry separate insurance coverage that directly affects your family’s recovery. Contact our Orlando wrongful death lawyer now to protect your claim and pursue accountability from every liable party.

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How Our Attorneys Prove Fault in Wrongful Death Cases

Our attorneys prove fault in wrongful death cases by determining how the fatal crash occurred and who caused it. We examine the sequence of events, the actions of those involved, and the physical evidence left behind. This includes:

  • Crash scene evidence, such as vehicle damage, impact points, skid marks, and roadway conditions
  • Digital and electronic data, including black box information, cell phone records, and onboard vehicle systems
  • Video evidence, such as traffic cameras, dashcams, and nearby business surveillance footage
  • Expert analysis from accident reconstructionists and medical professionals who connect the crash to the fatal injuries
  • Witness statements that support the sequence of events and prevent blame from being shifted

This evidence allows us to challenge insurance defenses. It also helps establish clear liability when fault is disputed or multiple parties are involved. Call 407-894-1480 now for a free case evaluation with our wrongful death attorneys serving Kissimmee, Tavares, Apopka, and surrounding Central Florida communities.

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Who Can File an Auto Accident Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?

In Florida, an auto accident wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. Individual family members do not file the lawsuit themselves. Instead, the personal representative files the claim on behalf of the estate and eligible surviving family members.

If the deceased had a will, the court typically appoints the named executor as the personal representative. If there is no will, the court appoints a representative, often starting with a surviving spouse or close family member. That appointment gives the representative legal authority to file the wrongful death claim and manage the case for the family.

Once the claim is filed, it must identify all surviving family members who may be entitled to compensation. This usually includes a surviving spouse, children, and parents. In some cases, other relatives who depended on the deceased for financial support may also be included. Since this process affects both the estate and surviving family members, early legal guidance helps avoid filing issues and delays.

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What Compensation Can You Recover After a Fatal Auto Accident?

Compensation in a wrongful death auto accident case is meant to address both the financial losses your family faces and the personal impact of the loss. However, the damages available depend on how the crash occurred, the losses involved, and who is eligible to recover under Florida law.

Here are the types of compensation you may be able to recover:

  • Economic damages: Cover funeral and burial costs, medical expenses related to the final injury, lost income, benefits, and the value of services your loved one provided.
  • Non-economic damages: Compensate for the personal impact of the loss, including loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support suffered by surviving family members.
  • Loss of support and services: Address the financial and household contributions your loved one would have continued to provide over time.
  • Estate-related damages: Allow the estate to recover losses incurred before death, as permitted under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act.
  • Punitive damages: May be available in limited cases involving reckless or intentional misconduct, such as impaired driving, under Florida law.

Since insurance companies often dispute the value of these losses, working with an experienced wrongful death lawyer is critical to pursuing full compensation. Call 407-894-1480 and let us help you better understand what your family may be entitled to recover.

Book Free Consultation Today

What Florida Laws Affect Wrongful Death Auto Accident Claims?

Florida’s wrongful death, negligence, and insurance laws directly control how auto accident wrongful death claims are filed, evaluated, and resolved. These laws determine who can bring the claim, how fault is handled, and what limits may apply to compensation.

Key Florida laws that impact wrongful death auto accident cases include:

Because these laws directly affect eligibility, fault, and recovery, understanding how they apply to your case is critical. An experienced wrongful death lawyer can help ensure deadlines are met, liability is properly evaluated, and available insurance coverage is identified early.

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How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Auto Accident Claim in Florida?

You generally have two years from the date of death to file an auto accident wrongful death claim in Florida. Missing this deadline can bar your family from any recovery.

While the two-year statute is the standard, Florida law recognizes limited exceptions that may extend or pause the deadline. Understanding these exceptions can help you avoid losing your right to file.

Here are the main exceptions to Florida’s two-year deadline:

  • Minor beneficiaries: The filing deadline may be extended until the minor reaches adulthood.
  • Mental incapacity: The filing deadline may be paused while the legally eligible person lacks capacity.
  • Defendant’s evasion or absence: The filing deadline may be tolled until the at-fault party can be located or served.
  • Government claims: These cases require advance notice and follow different filing rules before a lawsuit can proceed.

Since these exceptions can change the filing deadline, confirming how they apply to your case matters. Call 407-894-1480 for a no-cost case evaluation.

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Why Choose Todd Miner Law for a Wrongful Death Claim

After a fatal auto accident, the law firm you choose can directly affect your family’s ability to recover compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable. At Todd Miner Law, you work with a team backed by decades of experience handling serious auto accident and wrongful death claims across Central Florida. We focus on building clear liability cases, identifying all available insurance coverage, and countering insurer tactics aimed at limiting recovery.

Here’s what sets Todd Miner Law apart:

  • More than 30 years of experience handling serious auto accident and wrongful death cases
  • AV-Preeminent® rated by Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest standards of legal ability and ethics
  • Trial-ready representation when insurance companies refuse to make fair offers
  • Personalized guidance for families navigating wrongful death claims and estate-related issues
  • Deep roots across Central Florida, serving families in Baldwin Park, Daytona Beach, Heathrow,  Winter Park, Clermont, and surrounding communities

Call 407-894-1480 or visit us at 15 Outer Rd, Orlando, FL 32814 for a free consultation.

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FAQs

If the vehicle involved was owned by someone else, you can still pursue a wrongful death claim. The driver’s insurance typically applies first. If coverage is limited, the vehicle owner’s policy may provide additional protection. Since insurers often dispute responsibility in these cases, identifying all available policies early helps protect your family’s right to full compensation.

No, most wrongful death settlements are not taxable in Florida. These settlements usually compensate families for medical costs, lost support, and personal loss, which are not treated as taxable income. However, some portions, such as punitive damages or post-settlement interest, may be subject to tax. Our wrongful death lawyer can help structure the claim properly so that tax issues are addressed before compensation is distributed.

Yes, a wrongful death claim can be filed after a hit-and-run accident. Even if the at-fault driver is not immediately identified, your family may still pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage. Since these cases involve added investigation and insurance issues, working with a wrongful death lawyer helps protect your claim while efforts to identify the driver continue.

Disagreements can arise among family members in wrongful death cases, especially during an already difficult time. However, this does not affect the legal process, as Florida law requires the estate’s personal representative to file the claim. That representative acts on behalf of all eligible survivors, allowing the case to move forward even when opinions differ.

Opening an estate is required because Florida law requires a court-appointed personal representative to file a wrongful death claim. That appointment gives legal authority to pursue the case, accept settlement funds, and ensure compensation is distributed to the correct family members. Even when no assets are involved, an estate must be opened to properly move the claim forward.

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The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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