Wrongful Death Lawyer Coral Springs, FL
Those who have lost a beloved person because of the poor choices of another, can contact our Coral Springs, FL wrongful death lawyer for help. As the surviving relative of someone who died before their natural time, it’s understandable that you would yearn for justice. So many people go about their daily lives without regard for others, so when a life is taken, pursuing legal action is a valid response and often warranted. Our lawyers at The Andres Lopez Law Firm know the anguish you are going through, and hope that you call us today if someone you cherish was wrongfully taken by another. We can evaluate what has gone on and let you know if there are grounds for a lawsuit.
Your Next Step
You may have questions about what to do next, and whether legal action against the offending party is a route you want to take. The first step is meeting with our dedicated lawyer who understands the sensitive nature of cases like these, and who can offer advice and compassion. Our lawyer can inform you of your rights, the best way to hold the offender responsible, and whether the situation has enough evidence to move forward with a lawsuit. There are certain family members of the deceased who by law can pursue a wrongful death case, including the spouse, children (conditions may apply for out-of-wedlock children and adopted children), parents, personal representative, or dependent decedent.
Submitting Claim For Damages
Our personal injury lawyer may suggest sending a demand letter to the defendant, specifically the individual at fault for the wrongful death. It should have facts, types of damages, and evidence supporting these claims. As our Coral Springs wrongful death attorney may explain, the more convincing your demand letter is, the more likely it is to bring forth a settlement offer. Of course, there is no amount of money in the world that can give your cherished person back to you, but at the very least, you would have the funds needed to take care of yourself and your family as you grieve. Many families find that even though they cannot go back in time, the mere gesture of filing a wrongful death lawsuit and getting a verdict in their favor helps them obtain a sense of justice.
Wrongful Death Cases
The importance of retaining our personal injury lawyer cannot be overemphasized in tragic events where the negligence or wrongful act of another leads to the loss of life. These professionals play a vital role in providing legal assistance to the families of the deceased, helping you manage the complicated legal system to secure compensation for your loss. One of the most tragic events that necessitated the services of a wrongful death attorney was the Pulse Nightclub Shooting.
In 2016, a mass shooting at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, resulted in 49 deaths and 53 injuries. The families of the victims hired wrongful death lawyers to file lawsuits against various entities, including the nightclub’s owner and the security firm employed by the club. The lawyers argued that these entities failed to take necessary precautions to uphold the safety of the patrons, thus contributing to the wrongful deaths. Their legal experience was instrumental in holding the responsible parties accountable and securing compensation for the families affected by this tragedy.
Another heartbreaking incident that required the services of a wrongful death attorney was the Parkland School Shooting. In 2018, a gunman opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, resulting in 17 deaths and 17 injuries. The families of the victims, represented by wrongful death lawyers, filed lawsuits against the Broward County Public Schools and the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. The lawyers argued that the school district and the sheriff’s office failed to take adequate measures to prevent the shooting and protect the students and staff. The legal actions taken by the wrongful death lawyers played a pivotal role in making sure that the responsible parties were held accountable for their failure to protect the lives of those involved.
Additionally, the FIU Pedestrian Bridge Collapse is another case where the experience of a wrongful death lawyer was essential. In 2018, a pedestrian bridge under construction at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, Florida, collapsed, resulting in six deaths and ten injuries. The families of the victims, represented by wrongful death lawyers, filed lawsuits against the construction companies involved, the engineering firms, and FIU. The lawyers argued that the defendants were negligent in the design, construction, and inspection of the bridge, which led to its collapse and the subsequent wrongful deaths. The legal actions taken by the wrongful death lawyers were essential in holding the responsible parties accountable and securing compensation for the affected families.
Engaging the services of our attorney after such tragic events is important for the families of the victims as it helps in dealing with the legal process, holding the responsible parties accountable, and securing compensation for their loss.
Speak With A Lawyer
Those who recently experienced the death of a cherished person in their life due to another’s fault, should contact our Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. From consultation to personal injury representation, we can handle the difficult tasks as you focus on your family. We know what it takes to help families achieve justice for a relative taken too soon. We hope that if you have questions or concerns that you reach out to us at The Andres Lopez Law Firm today. Let up help you get the funds you need to support yourself as you handle this difficult time. Feel free to reach out via email or phone. We are here for you.
The loss of a loved one can be a difficult event to manage, so it is helpful to hire our experienced personal injury attorney who you can trust to guide you. In such tragic circumstances, a wrongful death claim may provide a legal recourse for the surviving family members. Discover the key aspects of wrongful death claims, including what qualifies as a wrongful death claim, who can sue for wrongful death, and when it is advisable to hire our wrongful death attorney.
Qualifications for a Wrongful Death Claim
A claim that involves a wrongful death can occur when a person’s death is caused by a deliberate or unintentional act as a result of negligence. Various situations can qualify as wrongful death claims, including fatal car accidents caused by a drunk or reckless driver, medical malpractice leading to a patient’s demise, defective products resulting in fatal accidents, or even criminal acts resulting in death. To establish a successful wrongful death claim, the plaintiff (the surviving family member) must demonstrate that the defendant’s actions or omissions directly caused the death and that the death has resulted in measurable damages.
How To File A Claim
Contacting our experienced wrongful death lawyers can improve your chances of being able to successfully win your case, determine your eligibility to file a wrongful death claim, and familiarize yourself with the specific criteria outlined by your jurisdiction. Typically, immediate family members have the right to sue, but eligibility may extend to other dependents or individuals in certain cases. Gather all pertinent evidence to support your claim. This includes accident reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs, and any other documentation that establishes negligence or intentional harm.
Who Can Sue for Wrongful Death
Depending on the jurisdiction you may be able to sue for wrongful death. Generally, immediate family members such as spouses, children (including adopted and stepchildren), and parents are the primary parties who can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, other dependents or individuals who were financially supported by the deceased may also have the right to sue. The specific laws governing wrongful death claims can vary between states and countries, so consulting with our knowledgeable attorney is essential to understand the legal options available in a particular jurisdiction.
Evidence for a Wrongful Death Claim
In a wrongful death claim, evidence plays a pivotal role in establishing liability and proving the extent of damages. Key pieces of evidence may include medical records, autopsy reports, accident reports, eyewitness testimonies, expert opinions, photographs or videos of the accident scene, and any relevant documentation that supports the claim of negligence or intentional harm. The stronger evidence that you have, the more compelling and convincing that your case may be. In most situations, wrongful death cases are settled out of court, but if mediation is not possible we may take your claim to trial.
Wrongful death claims offer a means of seeking justice and financial compensation for the loss of a loved one caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. Understanding the qualifications for a wrongful death claim, identifying eligible plaintiffs, and knowing when to hire our wrongful death attorney are critical steps in pursuing a personal injury case. For more information about legal services that you can use, contact our trusted Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer from The Andres Lopez Law Firm.
Damages in a Wrongful Death Case
Our Coral Springs, FL wrongful death lawyer knows that wrongful death cases are among the most emotionally challenging and legally complicated areas of civil law. These cases arise when someone’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions result in the untimely death of another individual. While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, pursuing damages in a wrongful death case serves multiple purposes, including holding the responsible party accountable and providing financial support to surviving family members.
In a wrongful death case, damages are the monetary awards sought by the deceased person’s surviving family members or the estate of the deceased to compensate for the losses they have suffered due to the wrongful death. Damages can encompass various aspects, and they typically fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the quantifiable financial losses incurred as a result of the death. These damages are easier to calculate and often include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers any medical bills related to the deceased person’s injury or illness leading up to their death.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Funeral and burial costs can be substantial, and these expenses are usually recoverable in a wrongful death case.
- Lost Earnings: The deceased person’s lost future income is a significant component of economic damages. This includes potential income and benefits they would have earned had they lived.
- Loss of Services: If the deceased provided services such as childcare, housekeeping, or caregiving to the surviving family members, the cost of replacing these services can be included in the damages.
- Loss of Inheritance: If the deceased person would have left an inheritance to the survivors, this potential financial loss can also be considered.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are less tangible and harder to quantify, but equally important in wrongful death cases. These damages aim to compensate for emotional and intangible losses and may include:
- Pain and Suffering: This reflects the physical and emotional distress the deceased experienced before their death.
- Loss of Companionship: Surviving family members can claim damages for the loss of the deceased person’s companionship, care, and guidance.
- Mental Anguish: Grief, depression, anxiety, and other emotional distress suffered by the survivors due to the loss of their loved one.
- Loss of Consortium: This pertains to the loss of the deceased person’s spousal companionship, intimacy, and support.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior and to deter others from similar actions.
Determining the appropriate amount of damages in a wrongful death case can be challenging. Courts consider various factors, including the age, health, and earning capacity of the deceased, the relationship between the deceased and the survivors, and the circumstances surrounding the death.
Coral Springs Wrongful Death Infographic
Coral Springs Wrongful Death Statistics
According to the CDC, more than 169,000 unintentional injury deaths occur in the U.S. each year. A significant number of wrongful death claims arise from these types of incidents, highlighting the importance of safety measures across all sectors.
In medical malpractice, a Johns Hopkins study estimates that 250,000 people die annually due to medical errors. This makes it one of the leading causes of wrongful deaths in the U.S. Workplace fatalities, as reported by OSHA, totaled 4,764 in 2020, with construction, manufacturing, and transportation being among the most hazardous industries.
The charts displayed highlight trends in wrongful death cases:
- Medical Error Deaths Over Time: Illustrating the steady nature of medical error-related fatalities over recent years.
- Workplace Fatalities Over Time: Showing trends in workplace deaths, emphasizing high-risk job sectors that need improved safety protocols.
- Unintentional Injury Deaths Over Time: Depicting a slight increase in unintentional injuries, a significant cause of wrongful death claims.
These statistics and trends underline the urgency of better preventive measures and accountability to reduce wrongful deaths.
Wrongful Death FAQs
If your family was killed due to someone else’s negligence, get in touch with our Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer. Your family may be entitled to compensation. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about wrongful death lawyers and wrongful death lawsuits.
What Is a Wrongful Death Lawyer, and When Should I Consider Hiring One?
Wrongful death lawyers are legal professionals specializing in personal injury law cases where an individual’s death occurs due to the negligence, misconduct, or wrongful actions of another party. If you suspect that a loved one’s death resulted from someone else’s fault, consulting our wrongful death attorney is advisable. These attorneys focus on seeking justice and compensation for the surviving family members affected by the loss.
What Types of Cases Do Wrongful Death Lawyers Handle?
Wrongful death lawyers handle a wide range of cases, including those resulting from car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, product liability, and criminal acts. Essentially, if a person’s death occurs due to someone else’s negligence or intentional wrongdoing, our wrongful death attorney can help pursue legal action on behalf of the deceased person’s family.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
The laws regarding who can file a wrongful death lawsuit vary by jurisdiction. Typically, immediate family members such as spouses, children, and parents are eligible to file a claim. In some cases, other dependents or individuals who suffered financial losses due to the death may also be eligible. Consulting with our wrongful death lawyers is important for understanding the specific eligibility criteria in your jurisdiction.
What Damages Can Be Recovered In a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Wrongful death lawsuits aim to compensate surviving family members for various losses, including medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost income, and the emotional pain and suffering caused by the death. The specific damages recoverable depend on the circumstances of the case and the applicable laws. Our Coral Springs personal injury lawyer will assess the situation and work to secure the maximum compensation available.
How is Negligence Determined in a Wrongful Death Case?
Proving negligence in a wrongful death case involves demonstrating that the responsible party had a duty of care, breached that duty, and that the breach directly resulted in the death. This can be challenging and requires thorough a investigation and presentation of evidence. Wrongful death lawyers often work with investigators and experts to establish negligence and build a strong case.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
The statute of limitations, or the time limit for filing a wrongful death lawsuit, varies by jurisdiction. It is essential to consult with a wrongful death lawyer promptly after the death occurs to ensure compliance with the applicable timeframes. Failing to file within the specified period may result in the loss of the right to pursue legal action. In Florida, the statute of limitations dictates eligible family members must file a claim within two years of the wrongful death.
If you believe that a loved one’s death was wrongful, consulting our Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer is essential. At The Andres Law Firm, we want to help you get justice.
Wrongful Death Glossary
Our wrongful death lawyers help families seek justice and compensation after losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or misconduct. Below, we provide clear definitions of important terms related to wrongful death claims, so you can better understand the process and your options.
Wrongful Death
Wrongful death occurs when a person’s life is lost due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. These claims allow surviving family members to seek financial compensation for their loss. For example, in a fatal workplace accident caused by unsafe conditions, the family may file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages.
These claims also serve as an important way to hold responsible parties accountable. While no amount of compensation can replace a loved one, a successful claim can help alleviate the financial burdens and provide a sense of justice.
Compensatory Damages
Compensatory damages are designed to address the measurable financial and emotional losses a family experiences after losing a loved one. They often include funeral costs, medical expenses incurred before death, and loss of future income. Additionally, they account for less tangible losses, such as the absence of companionship or guidance.
For instance, if a family loses a parent who was the primary breadwinner, compensatory damages may include the income that parent would have earned and the emotional support they provided. This financial recovery helps families regain stability and move forward after a devastating loss.
Deadline For Legal Action
Every wrongful death case is subject to a statute of limitations, which sets the final date by which a claim must be filed. These deadlines vary by state and depend on the circumstances surrounding the death.
For example, in some jurisdictions, families may have two years from the date of death to take legal action. Missing this deadline often means losing the ability to file a claim entirely, making it imperative for families to act promptly to protect their rights.
Breach Of Duty
Proving a breach of duty is a critical step in a wrongful death case. This involves showing that the responsible party failed to meet a standard of care owed to the deceased, leading to the fatal incident.
In a medical malpractice case, for instance, a breach of duty might occur when a doctor fails to follow established protocols, directly causing the patient’s death. Establishing this breach is necessary to demonstrate the defendant’s liability and pursue compensation on behalf of the surviving family members.
Personal Representative
A personal representative is the individual responsible for managing the deceased’s estate and, in many cases, filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of the family. This role is often assigned in the deceased’s will or, if no designation exists, appointed by the court.
The personal representative ensures the legal process is handled properly and that any compensation awarded is distributed appropriately. This role is essential to ensuring that the family’s legal rights are upheld and their financial needs are addressed.
Get Help For Your Case
Wrongful death cases are about seeking justice and support after an unimaginable loss. We are committed to helping families through these difficult times. If you have lost a loved one due to another party’s negligence, contact us today to learn how we can assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve. Our firm has successfully secured millions of dollars in settlements for our clients and are prepared to bring the same dedication and strategic approach to your case. Our attorneys offer legal services in Spanish and English. Don’t hesitate. Call our office now.
The Andres Lopez Law Firm, P.C., Coral Springs Wrongful Lawyer
7351 Wiles Rd # 101, Coral Springs, FL 33067
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Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm Today
Damages in a wrongful death case are a means to provide some measure of justice and financial relief to grieving family members while holding the responsible party accountable for their actions. While no amount of money can bring back a loved one, pursuing damages serves as a legal remedy to address the economic and non-economic losses suffered by those left behind. Call The Andres Lopez Law Firm to meet with our dedicated Coral Springs wrongful death lawyer. All consultations are free and confidential. Let our team explain your options and fight for financial justice on your behalf. Founding attorney Andres Lopez is a dedicated personal injury trial attorney who will advocate for your rights and the rights of your loved one. Don’t wait to get the legal guidance you need. Contact us today to get started on your wrongful death lawsuit.
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"My mother was in a bad car accident. She had to hospitalize for her injuries and broke her right wrist. We decided to hire The Andres Lopez Law Firm after her accident for the personal injuries caused by the other party. I can say, we have made the right decision by hiring them. Not only they settled our case, Alex from the law firm was always responsive to our questions and also guided is through throughout the whole process. I highly recommend them if anyone else gets into a situation like ours."
T. Ali
Trial Attorney
Attorney Andres Lopez has over a decade of trial experience. In that time, his work and track record of success has earned him a reputation for being a top trial attorney in South Florida.
Born in La Paz, Bolivia, Andres Lopez and his family moved to Washington, D.C. when he was a child.
Prior to attending law school, Andres Lopez tirelessly worked to give a voice to the people by serving in the White House, the Maryland Governor’s Office and managing the campaign of the first Latino to be elected to public office in Maryland.
Devoted to the legal community, Mr. Lopez serves as a member of The Florida Bar, the Broward County Bar Association, the Broward County Hispanic Bar Association, the Maryland Bar Association and the Florida Justice Association.