Wrongful Death Laws

Common causes of wrongful death

In Jupiter, wrongful death is defined as loss of life that is caused by the irresponsible conduct or negligence of another person, company, or entity.  This does not mean there has to be intent to kill.  In a wrongful death lawsuit, proof of negligence, misconduct, breach of contract, default, or wrongful act that has led to the death of a person must be presented. 

Some common causes of accidental death in Jupiter include the following:

• Medical malpractice, meaning negligence or improper care provided by medical professionals

• Car, truck, airplane, train, or boating accident

• Workplace dangers, which includes death from occupational accidents as well as death from disease that results from exposure to hazardous materials on the job

• Pharmaceutical liability, meaning death from defective prescription medication

• Nursing home malpractice, negligence, or abuse

Compensation

Jupiter wrongful death law states that damages may be recovered by the family of a person who has died as the result of someone else’s negligence or misconduct.  Surviving family members can receive compensation in the form of monetary payments for the loss of support, services and benefits, and future wages of the deceased.  They can also receive payment for emotional distress and for medical and funeral expenses.  In some cases, the family may also receive punitive damages, which are intended to punish the party that caused the death if they exhibited gross negligence or misconduct.

In a Jupiter accidental death case, damages are awarded by the court or agreed upon in a settlement after the filing of a lawsuit.  The case is filed by the decedent’s personal representative, who is either named in the will or appointed by the court.  That person files the suit on behalf of all survivors, who are defined as immediate family who received support from the deceased person.

Jupiter wrongful death attorneys

If you believe your loved one suffered a wrongful death in Jupiter, it is very important to act quickly.  Consult with a lawyer as soon as possible, because wrongful death law in Jupiter has a statute of limitations of two years after the death occurred. 

The longer you wait to pursue your case, the more valuable evidence can be lost or destroyed, which can make it more difficult to prove that a wrongful death occurred.  The attorneys at Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, P.L. have experience in a wide variety of wrongful death cases.  Contact us today for a free consultation.