Tampa Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
Our transportation system is deeply flawed in many ways. The fact that over 3,000 Floridians are killed in traffic collisions every year is proof. While we fully acknowledge that no sum of money can erase even a fraction of the grief that you are experiencing, the surviving family members of the victim should be fairly compensated for their tragic loss. This includes spouses, parents, children, and siblings of the decedent. The Tampa fatal car accident lawyer at The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. is here to help you seek justice.
The Leading Causes of Fatal Car Crashes in Tampa
Driving is one of the most dangerous activities that the average American carries out on a daily basis. Unfortunately, things are only becoming more dangerous in the wake of the pandemic, which has increased the prevalence of road rage and aggressive driving. The leading causes of fatal car crashes include the following:
- Drunk driving
- Road rage
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving or falling asleep behind the wheel
- Road racing
- Hit and runs
Establishing a Liable Party
In order to successfully recover compensation for your loved one’s death, it will be necessary to establish a liable party, or parties. This includes the following:
- Prove that the defendant had a duty of care
- Prove that the duty of care was breached
- Prove that the breach caused the wrongful death
- Prove that the death resulted in damages
Damages in a fatal car crash can include medical expenses, lost lifetime wages, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, funeral and burial expenses, property damage, and much more.
Who Should File the Wrongful Death Claim?
Family members of the victim, such as yourself, usually seek legal representation before a personal representative of the deceased person’s estate is named. A representative is the only person able to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the decedent’s estate. Said representative may be named in a will or estate plan, but in situations where there is no will—such as the death of a young person or child—a representative will be named by the court. This person is usually the closest family member of the victim. If the victim was married, their spouse is generally the automatic personal representative. Things can become more complex if the victim was unmarried and had no children or living parents. While only one personal representative can file a wrongful death claim, it should be noted that that representative may not be the only party that receives compensation. The Matassini Law Firm is well versed in navigating delicate or complicated situations in which the decedent had no will or estate plan in place.
Call a Tampa Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Today
Our Tampa fatal car crash lawyers will not only help ease the financial burden that you may be experiencing, but can handle the entire wrongful death claims process for you so that you have the time to grieve and be with loved ones. The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. is here for you and your family in this tragic time of need. Call us today at 813-217-5715 to schedule a free consultation.
