Losing a loved one in a vehicle accident that was caused by another party is naturally traumatizing for the surviving family members. When another party’s negligence or misconduct causes a fatal event, the legal term that applies is wrongful death. Many civil lawsuits in Florida follow such tragic incidents.
The Florida Highway Patrol says an impaired driver might have caused an accident in which a 30-year-old Citrus Springs woman lost her life. An accident report indicates that the crash occurred on U.S. 41 at approximately 8 a.m.on a recent Sunday. Reportedly, the woman was heading south on the highway when her vehicle was struck head-on.
Troopers reported that a 26-year-old St. Petersburg man was heading north when he veered across the center line and entered the southbound traffic lane, where he smashed into the woman’s car. She died at the crash scene. Her 9- and 7-year-old children suffered serious injuries, and they were rushed to a hospital by air. The wrong-way driver and his 27-year-old passenger were also seriously injured, and they were transported to a medical facility by road.
Under Florida laws, the deceased woman’s surviving family members and her estate may pursue financial relief by filing a wrongful death lawsuit in a civil court. They can claim economic damages like end-of-life expenses and loss of future income. Her children could claim pain and suffering brought about by the loss of a parent, and her spouse may sue for loss of companionship. An experienced wrongful death attorney can provide the necessary support and guidance throughout the legal proceedings of such a lawsuit.