Fatal Car Accidents In Bradenton: Seeking Justice Through A Wrongful Death Claim
Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things to go through in life. When it results from another’s recklessness, it is particularly devastating.
Unfortunately, fatal car accidents in Bradenton are common and can claim the lives of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and others involved. Sadly, grieving surviving family members often face financial pressure due to outstanding medical bills, funeral costs, and the sudden loss of income.
A wrongful death claim can help offset financial losses and provide a sense of justice. If you are dealing with the unexpected death of a loved one, our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer offers caring support and can help you understand your options.
What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death in Bradenton?
Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes Section 768.19), you can file a wrongful death claim when you suffer the loss of a loved one due to the negligence of others. In Bradenton car accident cases, that typically means proving that the other driver was at fault.
Florida’s Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that as many as 70 people are killed in car crashes in Manatee County each year. Surviving family members who may be eligible to file a Florida wrongful death claim include:
- The victim’s surviving spouse.
- Their children and adopted children.
- Their parents or grandparents.
- Other blood relatives or adoptive siblings who depended on the victim for support.
In Florida, the victim’s personal representative (named in their will) is tasked with filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of survivors. If there is no will, seek legal help to have one appointed through the Manatee County court.
Damages Available in Bradenton Wrongful Death Claims
Filing a Manatee County wrongful death claim can provide a sense of justice in holding those at fault accountable. It can also help cover financial losses and ensure you are provided for as your loved one would have wanted.
Section 768.21 of the Florida Statutes outlines the types of compensation available to surviving family members, which include:
- Medical costs related to the accident.
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Current lost income and the loss of future wages and benefits your loved one would have otherwise earned.
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection for a surviving spouse or children.
- The pain and suffering the victim experienced.
- Mental and emotional distress suffered by surviving family members.
While no amount of money can make up for your loss, filing a Bradenton wrongful death claim can help you recover in the aftermath.
Reach Out to Our Experienced Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer Today
When a car accident in Bradenton claims the life of a family member, a wrongful death claim provides justice and the compensation needed to cover your losses. At the Lavely Law Firm, we provide caring support to grieving families in Manatee County and fight for the maximum amount they deserve.
For trusted legal service, reach out to our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer. Call or contact us online to request a consultation today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.19.html
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
