Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident can upend your life. Nothing can make up for this tragic event, but while you face one of the most difficult chapters imaginable, remember that you may have the legal right to pursue justice and compensation.
A Lakeland fatal car accident lawyer with Dismuke Law can help you evaluate your options. Our founder, Attorney Dave Dismuke, works to recover the damages your family needs to move forward, so Ask Dave about our services when you reach out to our firm.
Causes of Fatal Car Accidents That May Constitute a Claim or Lawsuit
Not every fatal motor vehicle accident is grounds for legal action, but if another party was at fault, you could have a case. The other party may have been negligent in that they engaged in one or more of the following behaviors:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Reckless driving
- Failing to yield
- Vehicle malfunctions which could be the result of negligence on behalf of a vehicle owner
- Fatigued driving
- Poor weather conditions that can affect visibility, vehicle handling, and more
If you think a third party was at fault for your loss of a loved one, consulting a Lakeland fatal car accident lawyer at our firm can help you decide if filing a Lakeland wrongful death case is appropriate.
How a Fatal Car Crash Could Affect Your Life
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Lakeland car accidents caused almost 39,000 traffic fatalities in 2020 alone, with similar statistics reported each year.
A fatal accident can change your life forever.
A fatal accident can change your life forever. In addition to the grief associated with your loss, you could be hit with unexpected expenses. While this is undoubtedly one of the most difficult things anyone can deal with, remember you can make decisions to help improve the future of those affected. Filing a case could result in compensation.
Recoverable Compensation for Family After a Fatal Car Accident in Lakeland
In tragic wrongful death car accident cases, there are different damages you may seek for compensation, including:
- End-of-life medical bills
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of inheritance
- Burial and funeral costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium, care, or companionship.
Nothing can make up for your loss, but compensation can help make life easier and more secure. A prudent thing to do when faced with important decisions is to speak to our fatal car accident attorney in Lakeland, Florida.
How Hiring Our Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Lakeland, Florida, Could Help You
If you decide that you want to hire a team of legal professionals in your fight for compensation, there could be many benefits. Our lawyers can help in the following ways and more:
- Gather evidence to establish the liable party and prove your damages
- Help you fill out and submit important legal paperwork, saving you time and stress
- Help you understand how much compensation you might receive, enabling you to plan for the future.
- Informing you of what to expect from the process. If this is your first claim, you are likely to have many questions. Having our lawyer available to walk you through each step of the claim process and answer your questions could prove valuable.
- Handle communications and negotiations with the insurer
- Represent you during a trial, if needed
- Act as your general support system
At Dismuke law, we take fatal car accident cases on contingency. That way, you don’t have to pay upfront, hourly, or out-of-pocket fees. Instead, our payment comes from the financial award we secure for you at the end of your case.
Our Team Serving Lakeland Stands By to Help You
When you are searching for a lawyer to help you win your case, you could be looking for a team that has a history of winning cases and recovering significant sums for victims like you. At Dismuke Law, our team has experience with fatal car accident cases in the Lakeland area and a proud history of recovering favorable settlements.
We are dedicated to each and every case, and we know how important your claim is for you and your loved ones following your tragedy. Consider our team as you are weighing your options for a lawyer in your area.
How Long Do You Have to File a Fatal Car Accident Lawsuit in Florida?
The amount of time you have to file a lawsuit is based on Florida state law. Every state has a set of laws known as the statute of limitations, which governs the specific amount of time victims have to take legal action.
For wrongful death cases in Florida, the statute of limitations is generally two years, according to Florida Statutes § 95.11(4)(d). Two years can seem like a long time, but filing a lawsuit takes time. Additionally, the clock starts ticking from the time of an accident, so by the time you think of your legal options, it is possible that your window to act could be closing. Then, if you’re too late, the court may not allow you to collect compensation.
To help ensure you still have time to file your lawsuit, act as soon as you can. If you have questions, a car accident wrongful death lawyer on our team can help you figure out how long you have to file.
Contact Dismuke Law After You Lose Your Loved One in a Fatal Car Accident
As you cope with the loss of your loved one, remember that you can pursue justice, peace of mind, compensation, and a sense of closure by holding those who were responsible accountable for their wrongdoing.
A Lakeland fatal car accident attorney at Dismuke Law is available to discuss your case during a free, no-obligation consultation. Contact us today.