Learning that a loved one was killed in a car crash is a devastating experience. You may wonder what your rights are following the crash, especially with regards to the financial damages you incurred as a result of your loved one’s death. One option you may want to learn more about is filing a wrongful death claim. The following is an overview of the damages you can seek when you pursue a wrongful death claim in Florida.
Loss of support and services
The victim’s surviving spouse and children may be able to seek compensation for future loss of support and services from the date of their loved one’s death and reduced to present value. The survivor’s relationship to the deceased, the amount of the deceased’s probable net income and the replacement value of the deceased’s services to the survivor may be considered. In determining future losses, the life expectancies of both the deceased and the survivor will be considered.
Loss of companionship
The victim’s surviving spouse and minor children may be able to seek compensation for loss of companionship. A surviving spouse may be able to receive damages for the loss of companionship, the loss of protection and for mental pain and suffering starting from the date of injury. Minor children may be able to receive damages for loss of parental companionship, instruction and guidance and for mental pain and suffering from the date of injury.
Medical and funeral expenses
The victim’s survivors may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses incurred due to the deceased’s death as long as the survivor has paid them. Similarly, funeral expenses paid for may also be sought.
Learn more about wrongful death claims in Florida
These are only some examples of the types of damages that may be sought in a Florida wrongful death claim. This post is for educational purposes only and does not contain legal advice. Our firm’s webpage on auto accidents may be a useful resource to those who want to learn more about their rights and options.