What to Do If a Family Member Dies in a Miami Car Accident

Losing a loved one in a Miami car accident is a devastating experience. In addition to the emotional trauma, families often face financial hardships, unexpected medical bills, and funeral expenses. If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim and seek compensation for your loss.

Understanding your legal options after a fatal accident is crucial. Below, we outline the steps to take following a fatal car crash, who can file a claim, the types of damages that may be available, and how a Miami wrongful death attorney can help.

Steps to Take After a Fatal Car Accident in Miami

1. Report the Accident

If you were present at the scene of the accident, call 911 immediately. The Miami Police Department or Florida Highway Patrol will document the crash and create an accident report, which may be critical in proving liability in a wrongful death lawsuit.

2. Gather Evidence

If possible, collect as much evidence as you can from the scene, including:

• Photos and videos of the crash site, vehicles, and road conditions

• Contact information of witnesses

• Surveillance or dashcam footage

Even if you were not present at the scene, a lawyer can work to obtain traffic camera footage, police reports, and accident reconstructions to help build your case.

3. Obtain the Medical Examiner’s Report

In cases involving fatalities, the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office may conduct an autopsy. This report may provide important evidence about the cause of death, which can support your wrongful death claim.

4. Identify Who May Be at Fault

Many fatal accidents are caused by negligent drivers, but other parties may also be responsible, including:

• Drunk or distracted drivers

• Reckless drivers speeding or running red lights

• Rideshare drivers (Uber/Lyft accidents)

• Trucking companies (if the crash involved a commercial truck)

• Vehicle manufacturers (if a defective part contributed to the accident)

A Miami wrongful death lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to determine all liable parties in your case.

5. File a Wrongful Death Claim

Under Florida law, wrongful death claims must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of the surviving family members. This lawsuit seeks damages for both financial and emotional losses caused by the accident.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Car Accident?

Florida law allows specific family members to recover compensation after a fatal crash, including:

• Spouse

• Children

• Parents

• Other dependent relatives

If you are unsure whether you qualify to file a claim, a Miami wrongful death attorney can help determine your legal rights. The circumstances of who can make a claim may depend on who else is available to make a claim, like if there is a surviving spouse, certain others may not be able to claim pain and suffering.

What Compensation Is Available in a Miami Wrongful Death Car Accident Case?

Certain family members may be eligible for various types of damages, including:

• Medical expenses related to the victim’s final treatment

• Funeral and burial costs

• Loss of income and financial support

• Loss of companionship and parental guidance

• Emotional pain and suffering

An experienced lawyer can help calculate the full value of your claim and fight for the compensation your family deserves.

How a Miami Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

At The Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we understand the immense grief and financial burdens families face after a tragic loss. Our legal team is here to:

• Investigate the accident and identify all responsible parties

• Collect and preserve critical evidence

• Handle all insurance negotiations

• File a wrongful death lawsuit if a settlement cannot be reached

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any fees or costs unless we win your case.

Contact a Miami Wrongful Death Attorney Today

If you lost a loved one in a Miami car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Florida law limits the time you have to file a wrongful death claim.

📞 Call us today at (800) 337-7755 for a free consultation

💬 Chat live with our agents online now

Our compassionate and experienced legal team is ready to fight for justice and financial security for your family.