How To File a Wrongful Death Suit in Tampa

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Tampa is a stunning city situated along the west coast of Florida. It offers stunning beaches, fascinating cultural attractions, and busy downtown activities. However, like any other city, Tampa also experiences unexpected accidents that can lead to wrongful deaths.

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) indicates that certain factors are regularly associated with fatal incidents: distracted driving (3,450 fatalities nationwide), drowsy driving (803 fatalities nationwide), drunk driving (10497 fatalities nationwide), motorcycle crashes (5286 fatalities nationwide), and pedestrian accidents (5987 fatalities nationwide).

Experiencing the tragic loss of a loved one due to the misconduct or negligence of another party can be devastating. In such situations, pursuing justice and compensation through legal action may be a viable option. However, filing a wrongful death suit can be challenging without the assistance of skilled Tampa wrongful death attorneys.

During these trying times, it’s crucial to employ the expertise and empathy of a seasoned attorney. This article serves as a guide to filing a wrongful death suit in Tampa, outlining the essential steps and highlighting the role a wrongful death lawyer plays in helping you navigate the complex legal process.

In What Circumstances Can A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Be Filed?

In Tampa, Florida, wrongful death claims typically involve a decedent’s death caused by another party’s negligence, default, breach of contract or warranty, or wrongful act. Individuals with the legal right to do so can file a claim for damages on behalf of the deceased’s estate and family members.

In this state, only the personal representative (or executor) is granted such authority under the law. By filing an action on behalf of the deceased’s estate

and family members, monetary compensation may alleviate any financial loss or suffering resulting from the accidental passing.

Legal Steps to File A Wrongful Death Claim

Consult an attorney: If you suspect a loved one’s death resulted from negligence or intentional acts, seek legal advice promptly.

File the lawsuit: Submit a wrongful death claim to the court with jurisdiction over the case, typically where the death took place.

Negotiate with the insurance company: Negotiations usually involve the insurance provider of the party responsible for the harm.

Court proceedings: If no agreement is reached during negotiations, continue with the legal process in court.

Reach a settlement or verdict: If a settlement is reached or a favorable verdict is obtained, you will receive the awarded funds.

Understand claim finality: After the settlement or verdict, the wrongful death claim is considered resolved and cannot be pursued again.

Wrongful Death Settlements: How Long Do They Take?

Wrongful death cases can have varying timelines for settlement. Some may settle quickly in a few months, while others may take several years. It’s important to thoroughly investigate each case and gather evidence before considering a settlement offer.

Negotiation between the insurance company and the plaintiff’s lawyer is necessary to reach an agreement acceptable to both parties; this process can also be lengthy. Consequently, it pays off to be patient and wait until the case has been properly investigated and all involved parties are satisfied with the outcome of negotiations.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the time limit may start when you learn about or reasonably should have learned about a malpractice-related death.

For instance, if you discover malpractice issues two months after the death, this two-month period is subtracted from the two-year window. If you don’t file your claim within the allowed time, it becomes invalid due to exceeding the statute of limitations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the aftermath of a death caused by a wrongful act can be incredibly challenging for the affected family members. Pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit can be a crucial step towards obtaining justice and financial compensation for the damages suffered. Engaging the services of a knowledgeable Tampa attorney is essential for effectively navigating the complex legal system.

It is important to remain patient and vigilant throughout the process, as success often requires adherence to specific procedures and deadlines. Timely consultation with an attorney is crucial to safeguarding your rights and ensuring the best possible outcome in a wrongful death case.