Coral Springs Wrongful Death Lawyer
When someone acts recklessly or negligently and it causes an accident that results in someone else’s death, it is devastating for loved ones left behind. In these situations, family members should always know what the law says about their right to claim compensation from the at-fault party. If you have lost someone, a Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer can explain the law as it applies to your case, and help you file a claim or lawsuit against the liable party.
How Do Wrongful Death Claims Work?
Different types of negligent acts can result in a wrongful death claim, including car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, defective products, and more. Wrongful death claims differ from criminal cases. For example, if someone was murdered by someone else, the perpetrator may face criminal charges and be prosecuted by the state at a trial. If convicted, they will face a sentence that will include jail time and high fines.
Wrongful death claims, on the other hand, are civil claims. Using the same above example, loved ones could file a claim for damages against the perpetrator for causing the wrongful death. Through a wrongful death claim or lawsuit, family members can recover compensation for the losses they incurred as a result of the death. Although some wrongful death cases do proceed to trial, the majority of them are settled out of court.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Coral Springs, as throughout the rest of Florida, only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can file a wrongful death claim. The personal representative is typically named in the will of the deceased, or elsewhere in their estate plan. When the deceased did not name a personal representative, the court will appoint one. If the personal representative is successful with their claim or lawsuit, the damages recovered are then distributed to family members that have an interest in the claim.
The Statute of Limitations on Wrongful Death Claims
Unlike other types of personal injury claims, wrongful death claims have a statute of limitations of two years from the date of the death. In other personal injury claims, accident victims typically have four years from the date of the accident to file their claim.
If you do not file your wrongful death claim within this two-year time limit, you will forfeit your right to claim any damages. Before filing your claim, a wrongful death lawyer will need to conduct a full investigation to determine liability and collect evidence, all of which takes time. As soon as possible after a wrongful death, it is critical to speak to a Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer so you do not forfeit your rights.
Our Wrongful Death Lawyer in Coral Springs Will Protect Your Rights
If you have lost a loved one due to the negligent acts of another person, our Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer at Lyons & Snyder will fight for your rights to recover compensation. Call us today at 954-462-8035 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation so we can review your case.
