St. Petersburg Wrongful Death Lawyers
Compassionate Legal Support After a Tragic Loss
Losing a loved one is never easy, but it can be even more painful when the death was caused by another person’s negligence or carelessness. When a fatal accident occurs and a family member dies, the surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim to obtain compensation for their losses.
At Gunn Law Group, we understand the pain and suffering you are going through. Our St. Petersburg wrongful death lawyer can help you move forward by holding the liable party accountable for your loss.
Contact us online or call 813-228-7070 to schedule a free initial consultation.
What is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death refers to a legal claim that arises when a person’s death is caused by the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. It is a civil lawsuit filed by the surviving family members or beneficiaries of the deceased person seeking compensation for the damages they have suffered as a result of the death.
Wrongful death claims can arise from various situations, including but not limited to:
- Accidents: Such as car accidents, workplace accidents, slip and falls, or other incidents caused by the negligence of another person or entity.
- Medical malpractice: When a healthcare professional’s negligent actions or medical errors lead to a patient’s death.
- Product liability: If a defective product causes someone’s death, the manufacturer, distributor, or seller of the product may be held liable.
- Intentional acts: In cases where the death was caused intentionally, such as assault, murder, or manslaughter, a wrongful death claim may be pursued in addition to any criminal charges.
The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to provide compensation to the surviving family members or beneficiaries for their losses and damages resulting from the death. These damages may include financial losses, such as medical expenses and funeral costs, lost income and financial support, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida?
In Florida, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate is responsible for filing a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members. The personal representative is usually named in the deceased person’s will or appointed by the court if there is no will.
Generally, the claim must be filed within two years from the date of the person’s death. However, there are exceptions and special circumstances that can affect the time limit, so consulting with a St. Petersburg wrongful death attorney is crucial to ensure compliance with the applicable deadlines.
