Earlier this month, a pedestrian bridge at Florida International University collapsed, killing six and injuring nine others. While the cause of the collapse is still under official investigation, there were reports that one of the lead engineers noticed cracks in the bridge before it was even complete and reported the cracks to administration. However, nothing was done.According to one news report, one of the several people who were injured in the bridge collapse has recently filed a Florida personal injury lawsuit against several of the parties involved in the construction of the bridge, including the firm that designed it and the construction company charged with installing the bridge. Evidently, the recently filed case was brought by a man who was riding his bike near the bridge when it collapsed.
The lawsuit claims that as the bridge collapsed, a motorist swerved to avoid either the falling bridge or another motorist and struck the man while he was on his bicycle. As a result of the collision, the man sustained serious injuries.
Florida Wrongful Death Lawsuits
In the tragic event that someone loses their life due to the negligence of a person, business, or government organization, their loved ones may be able to seek compensation for their loss through a Florida wrongful death lawsuit. Technically, the case must be brought by the personal representative of the deceased, and any award will become a part of the victim’s estate.
Under Florida Statutes section 768, Florida wrongful death plaintiffs who are successful may be entitled to compensation for the following:
- Loss of support and services provided by the deceased;
- Medical and funeral expenses; and
- Loss of earnings.
In addition to the above, a surviving spouse may also recover damages for the loss of companionship and protection provided by the deceased. Minor children may recover for the loss of parental companionship, instruction, and guidance that would have been provided by their deceased parent. Both surviving spouses and surviving children may also be entitled to compensation for any pain and suffering they endured as a result of their loss.
Proving a wrongful death lawsuit is essentially the same as proving a traditional negligence case against a defendant. That is, the plaintiff must establish that the defendant’s negligent actions brought about the death of their loved one. While this may sound straightforward in theory, in practice, these cases are often hotly contested and may require the presentation of one or more expert witnesses, depending on the complexity of the issues involved.
Have You Lost a Loved One in a Preventable Accident?
If you have recently lost a loved one in any kind of Florida accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through a Florida wrongful death lawsuit. The dedicated personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Friedman, Rodman & Frank have extensive experience representing victims as well as their families. We represent clients across South Florida in personal injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice lawsuits. To learn more, call 877-448-8585 to schedule a free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress Claims in Florida, South Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Blog, published March 21, 2017.
Additur and Remittur: A Judge’s Ability to Adjust a Jury’s Verdict in Florida, South Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Blog, published March 5, 2018.