Mourning the death of someone close to you is never easy. The grief is only made worse when the death is someone else’s fault. In Lakeland, Florida, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim seeking financial compensation and justice from the responsible party.

At Brooks Law Group, we understand the idea of filing a wrongful death lawsuit may seem overwhelming. However, the unexpected death of a loved one is often accompanied by significant financial demands. These are due to unexpected medical bills, funeral costs, and reduced household income. Recovering fair compensation can ease the strain of these burdens on you and your family.

When you work with us, our legal team handles everything so you can grieve in peace. We work diligently to minimize disruptions to your life while fighting for the results you deserve.

There’s no cost or obligation to learn your legal options. Contact us today for a confidential, free consultation with a Lakeland wrongful death attorney.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

A wrongful death is any death that results from the negligent action of another party. In this context, it does not matter if it was intentional or unintentional. The leading causes of wrongful death include:

  • Motor vehicle accidentsTens of thousands of Americans die each year in car, commercial truck, and motorcycle accidents caused by negligent drivers.
  • Workplace accidents – Unsafe work environments contributed to more than 5,000 worker fatalities in a recent year. This equals one worker’s death every 99 minutes.
  • Slip and fall accidentsFalls are the second-most common cause of injury-related death for people between 65 and 84 and the most common cause for those 85 and older. But deadly slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone if a property owner or landlord fails to repair dangerous conditions on their premises.
  • Unsafe products – Defective products, such as faulty tires or power tools, can leave even the most careful users with fatal injuries.
  • Nursing home abuse – Elder abuse is a serious problem in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. In a recent analysis of self-reports by residents, researchers found a high prevalence of neglect and psychological, physical, financial, and sexual abuse in institutions.
  • Dog bite injuries – One study found that nearly 570 Americans died in dog bite incidents over a 16-year period. Many dog bite victims are children under the age of 10.
  • Medical malpracticeStudies suggest medical errors are the third-leading cause of death in America, trailing only heart disease and cancer.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Lakeland, FL?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a type of civil claim that is very different from a criminal case. When a person is convicted of criminal charges, they can face penalties like fines, probation, or jail time. But in a wrongful death case in Lakeland, FL, the at-fault party may be ordered to pay compensation to the family of the individual who died due to their negligence. The outcome of a criminal case does not necessarily have any bearing on the outcome of the other.

Under Florida law, only surviving blood relatives and dependents of the deceased, such as their spouse, children, or parents, may collect benefits from a wrongful death lawsuit. And importantly, only a court-approved representative of the deceased’s estate has the legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

This representative has a legal duty to manage the deceased’s final affairs by

  • validating their will
  • accounting for assets
  • and paying off any creditors of the estate.
  • They are also responsible for distributing assets from the estate and compensation from any wrongful death claims to surviving family members.

What Do You Have to Prove in a Wrongful Death Case?

When you file a wrongful death claim in Lakeland, Florida, you must be able to demonstrate the following key elements to prove that the other party should be financially liable:

  • The at-fault party had a responsibility to avoid injuring your loved one. Examples include a motorist’s responsibility to drive safely and avoid causing a car accident or a doctor’s duty to provide a certain standard of care to a patient.
  • The responsible party failed to uphold their duty. You would need to prove that the at-fault party breached their duty to reasonably avoid harming your relative. A drunk driver or doctor who failed to follow proper sterilization procedures disregards their obligation to keep others safe.
  • The other party’s negligence directly contributed to the wrongful death. You must be able to demonstrate a link between the defendant’s negligent actions (or failure to act) and the wrongful death.
  • The harm can be remedied by awarding damages to the victim. In truth, no money can make up for a lost family member. But under Florida personal injury law, you must establish that monetary compensation is the only way to provide relief for your loss.

Calculating Lakeland Wrongful Death Damages

Calculating wrongful death damages in Lakeland involves a careful examination of the facts. An experienced attorney from a wrongful death law firm can place an appropriate value on your case and push for maximum compensation for your personal and financial losses.

Damages in a  Lakeland wrongful death case can include money for:

  • Medical bills
  • Funeral expenses
  • Loss of companionship and protection
  • Mental pain and suffering
  • Loss of support and services
  • Lost income and benefits
  • Loss of parental companionship and guidance

Finally, if the court decides the at-fault party in the wrongful death case was egregiously reckless or intentionally malicious, a judge may decide to award punitive damages to the family. These damages are ordered to punish wrongdoers, discourage similar behavior in the future, and compensate the deceased’s victims.

Punitive damages are rarely awarded. A Lakeland wrongful death lawyer can help determine whether they are possible in your case.

Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations in Lakeland

Florida’s statute of limitations gives personal representatives just two years from the date of the decedent’s death to file a wrongful death suit. If the representative files the case after the two-year deadline has passed, the court will most likely dismiss the case. This will then leave the surviving family with no opportunity to recover compensation for their loss.

For this reason, it’s critical to contact a wrongful death attorney in Lakeland as soon as possible. Your lawyer will

  • calculate the exact timeline for your case
  • establish a solid foundation for a wrongful death case
  • and file appropriate documents in court

before the statute of limitations expires.

How Our Lakeland Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help You

If someone you love died in Lakeland, Florida, due to someone else’s careless or reckless behavior, you have the right to demand compensation for your family members. Let us help you demand justice and continue the healing process.

Call or contact Brooks Law Group today to speak to a wrongful death attorney in a free case review.

Visit our wrongful death claim lawyer offices near Lakeland, FL

Brooks Law Group - Wrongful Death Lawyer in Lakeland
114 E Parker Street
Lakeland, FL 33801
863-450-1824
Directions

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Serving residents anywhere in Florida, Brooks Personal Injury Lawyers brings justice to you. No need to come to our office – schedule a remote consultation and get the personalized attention you deserve.

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Our dedicated Lakeland Wrongful Death attorneys can answer your questions and review all your legal options during a free and confidential case consultation.

We Handle A Broad Range of Lakeland Injury Claims

Car Accident Attorney in Lakeland

Being hurt in a car accident can turn your life upside down. Serious injuries are costly to treat and may require significant periods of time off work. That’s not to mention the other losses that often impact individuals injured in serious wrecks, such as the ability to perform daily tasks like getting the kids to school or putting food on the table.

Florida’s no-fault insurance laws sometimes leave car accident victims wondering whether they are able to file a lawsuit against the party(s) responsible for their accident. While it’s true that you must turn to your own insurance’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits first after a crash, you may also be able to take legal action. That’s because PIP benefits only pay for a portion of your medical expenses and lost income. If the severity of your injury exhausts these benefits, you may pursue additional compensation by filing a personal injury claim against whoever is at fault for the wreck.

Florida law allows accident victims to file a negligence claim against another driver if their injuries are serious and permanent, such as:

  • Spinal cord injury (paralysis)
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Disfigurement
  • Scarring
  • Amputation
  • Permanent damage to an important bodily function

If experienced a Lakeland car accident, talk to one of our personal injury lawyers at Brooks Law Group so you receive your full PIP benefits. You can also explore whether a lawsuit is a valid option during a free consultation.

Learn more about how our car accident attorneys can assist you by calling us today.

Truck Accident Attorney in Lakeland

Collisions involving commercial motor vehicles are some of the worst on the road. A standard car is simply no match for a large truck, tractor-trailer or 18-wheeler. Injuries are often catastrophic or fatal. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s critical to contact a skilled attorney for immediate help.

Truck accident cases are more complex than traditional car accident claims. Instead of dealing with an individual driver or drivers, you will be dealing with trucking companies and other businesses that are involved in transporting the cargo. That means that numerous entities may be held liable in your claim. Figuring out who should be held accountable for your injuries is a job for one of the Lakeland truck accident attorneys at Brooks Law Group.

Truck accident injuries frequently meet Florida’s serious injury threshold and include:

  • Head and neck injuries
  • Back and spinal cord injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Crush injuries
  • Internal organ trauma
  • Thermal and chemical burns
  • Amputation

Commercial motor vehicles are regulated by both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and by state law. You’ll need a lawyer who understands how these laws work to ensure that your interests are represented fairly during the claims process.

When you work with Brooks Law Group, you’ll get a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to getting maximum results for you and your family.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Lakeland

Motorcycling is a popular form of recreation and transportation in Florida. Unfortunately, it’s also risky. Bikers have little to protect them from harm if they are involved in a motorcycle accident. Motorcycles are also lightweight and harder to see on the roads, making operators and passengers particularly vulnerable.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

  • Blind spots: Drivers who fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes can easily strike a motorcyclist.
  • Speeding: Driving too fast is dangerous for any motorist, regardless of vehicle type. But aside from wearing motorcycle gear and a helmet, bikers have little to shield them from serious injury.
  • Alcohol/drug use: Driving under the influence can slow reflexes, affect balance and lead to judgment errors that result in deadly motorcycle collisions.
  • Tailgating: Rear-end accidents are a common consequence of following too closely.
  • Lane splitting: This occurs when a motorcyclist drives between the lanes of traffic. It is against the law in Florida and in most of the United States.
  • Left-turn accidents: Bikers can be injured when someone makes an unsafe turn, fails to yield the right of way or misjudges the distance between the two vehicles.
  • Road defects: Cracked pavement, potholes, and other debris in the road are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.
  • Faulty parts: The designers and makers of defective motorcycle parts may be held liable if a malfunction causes a biker to crash.

Our motorcycle accident attorneys have successfully represented crash victims in Lakeland, Tampa, Winter Haven, and Auburndale for nearly 30 years. Put our experience to work for
you. Call or contact us for your free consultation.

Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Lakeland

We’re all pedestrians at some point, so we’re all at risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident. Whether you’re walking in a parking lot or on a neighborhood sidewalk, you have the right to expect that other drivers and bicyclists will be on their guard to avoid hitting you. But if someone is negligent and causes an accident that injures you, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related losses.

Common injuries from pedestrian accidents include:

  • Broken bones
  • Cuts
  • Soft tissue damage, like pulled ligaments and tendons
  • Head injuries
  • Neck injuries
  • Back injuries

You don’t deserve to pay for injuries that aren’t your fault. Even if you are partly to blame for the accident, you could still be entitled to compensation. Let our knowledgeable lawyers fight to get you the best results for your claim.

Wrongful Death Attorney in Lakeland

There’s nothing worse than losing a beloved family member. Filing a wrongful death claim is one way that family members can hold the responsible party accountable for their negligence.

It’s critical to speak to a wrongful death attorney in cases involving an accidental death. A lawyer will be able to launch an immediate investigation into the claim, making sure that all relevant evidence is collected and preserved.

At Brooks Law Group, we know that money cannot replace your loss. But many families experience financial hardships after the sudden death of a loved one. While taking legal steps may be the last thing you feel like doing, obtaining wrongful death compensation can be the foundation for rebuilding your life again.

Our compassionate attorneys are able to meet in our Lakeland office, in your home, or wherever you need. Contact us for a free consultation.

Slip and Fall Lawyer in Lakeland

We’ve all taken a tumble before. But if you slipped and fell on another’s property due to a hazardous condition, you could be entitled to compensation.

Like all personal injury cases, a slip and fall accident claim must prove negligence. You must be able to show that the person in charge of the property (usually an owner, landlord or management company) did not take reasonable steps to ensure that their premises were safe. You must also prove that you did not act recklessly by trespassing or ignoring posted caution signs around the area where your accident occurred.

Seek an attorney’s guidance if you suspect that you have a slip and fall case. If you don’t, you can expect the insurance company to challenge your claims by saying that you were to blame for the incident.

At Brooks Law Group, we don’t let insurers bully our clients. We’ll build a strong case that shows why you deserve maximum compensation for your injuries.

Our trusted legal team will fight for the results that you are owed. Call our phone number to schedule a free consultation.

Dog Bite Attorney in Lakeland

We’ve come to think of dogs as our faithful, furry friends. Most of the time, that’s true. However, when a dog bite puts you or a family member in the hospital with serious injuries, it’s time to consider contacting a lawyer.

In Florida, you can recover compensation from a dog owner’s insurance company even if the owner had no clue that the dog had dangerous tendencies. The only exceptions would be if you were trespassing or provoking the dog in some way. Even in those circumstances, it’s a good idea to contact a dog bite attorney. Florida’s negligence laws could allow you to collect partial compensation if you share a portion of fault for the dog attack.

Wondering whether you have a dog bite claim in Lakeland? Contact us now to get the answers you need.

Construction Accident Attorney in Lakeland

About one in five workplace deaths occur in the construction industry, according to the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration. However, many more construction accidents result in serious injuries.

OSHA has labeled the leading causes of construction accidents as the “Fatal Four.” These are:

  • Falls
  • Being struck by objects
  • Electrocutions
  • Caught in/between equipment or being crushed in collapsing structures

Injuries from construction accidents may be covered through your workers’ compensation benefits. But if a third party other than your employer is responsible for the accident, you may be eligible for additional compensation through a personal injury claim. A competent attorney can identify all possible defendants in your case.

With multiple locations throughout central Florida, it’s likely you’ll find a Brooks Law Group office near you. Use our simple online contact form to arrange your free consultation today.

Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Lakeland

No one knows how many seniors fall victim to nursing home abuse each year. Unfortunately, it is an underreported crime, with many fearful residents suffering in silence.

Federal agencies monitor U.S. nursing homes in an attempt to protect the elderly from abuse and neglect. Sadly, Florida has a poor track record. A recent news report found that 25 of the 697 nursing homes in the state were flagged for “severe citations of abuse.” According to the article, such citations usually indicate there was a death or injury.

If you believe that a loved one is being abused in a Lakeland nursing home, don’t hesitate to act quickly. Get one of the tough nursing home abuse attorneys at Brooks Law Group to investigate your claim as soon as possible.

Social Security Disability Lawyer in Lakeland

If a disability prevents you from working for a year or more, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.

The Social Security Administration has four programs for people with disabilities, including:

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Disabled Widows and Widowers Benefits (DWB)
  • Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)

Nevertheless, obtaining approval for Social Security Disability benefits can be fraught with obstacles. However, having an attorney prepare or review your application can help ensure that it is correct and complete. This can speed up the SSD determination process, which is generally quite lengthy.

Our attorneys have represented thousands of clients who were initially denied SSD benefits. If you’re one of them, contact us today.

Defective Products Attorney in Lakeland

People have the right to trust that the products they buy are safe. Yet, when an accident happens due to a design defect or other malfunction, it’s possible to file a product liability claim against whoever is at fault for the resulting injuries.

Possible liable parties include:

  • The product designer
  • Its manufacturer
  • A distributor
  • The retailer who sold the product to the consumer

When a defective product harms you, you’ll need a product liability lawyer with the skills and resources to look into the incident. Trust Brooks Law Group to determine all liable parties and hold them accountable for their actions.

What We Do

Our Lakeland law office has successfully handled a wide variety of catastrophic injury claims. Our team has the skills and the resources to take on even the most complex claims.

About Our Firm

At Brooks Law Group, personal service matters just as much as positive outcomes. It’s certainly our job to demand maximum compensation for you. But you’re not just another job to us. Good service starts by providing you with professional and personalized attention when you need it.

We’re proud to have assembled a team of committed attorneys who understand how important your case is to you, and it’s just as important to us.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

  • $ 2 million: Wrongful death
  • $2 million: Car accident on the job
  • $1 million: Truck accident
  • $1 million: DUI accident

Client Testimonials

“We came to Brooks for help with a slip and fall case and since day one they’ve been incredible. The attorneys are knowledgeable and compassionate and handled the case with ease. No phone call went unanswered and emails were always answered in a timely manner. We definitely recommend Brooks Law Group to anyone needing injury attorneys.”

– Brittany Sansone

“Brooks Law Group was outstanding in helping me get through my accident. The attorney, case manager and paralegal were all amazing; each one very knowledgeable and thorough in everything that was done throughout the process of my case. They were professional, courteous and communicative, explaining and making sure I understood everything that was going on. They are kind, compassionate and worked hard to get the best possible settlement for me and I appreciate all that the entire staff of Brooks Law Group did for me. I would recommend them to anyone who is ever in need of an attorney.”

– Lisa Tucker

Our Personal Injury Lawyers in Lakeland Fight for What’s Right

Brooks Attorney in FLAt Brooks Law Group, our mission is to secure results that allow accident victims to move on with their lives. Most personal injury claims can be resolved in settlements. However, our attorneys are aggressive trial lawyers who won’t hesitate to bring your injury claim to court if a fair settlement agreement cannot be reached.

Three things you should know about our law firm:

  • We get results.
  • We’re available 24/7.
  • No fees unless you win.

Remember, you can find out everything you need to know by scheduling a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers in Lakeland, FL at Brooks Law Group. We’ll listen to the facts of your case, determine your legal options and explain the personal injury process to you in detail. Regardless, whether you decide to hire us or not, you can rest assured that you will leave our office with a solid legal opinion from a highly qualified and proven attorney.

GET YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW

 

Areas We Serve in Florida

Brooks Law Group represents clients in communities and neighborhoods around Lakeland, including:

  • Beacon Hill
  • Camphor
  • Central Avenue
  • Cleveland Heights
  • Cleveland Heights Golf Course
  • Crystal Lake
  • Dixieland
  • Downtown
  • East Lake Morton
  • Edgewater Beach
  • Edgewood
  • Florida Southern College
  • Francis Blvd
  • Imperial
  • Jefferson Ave
  • Jewel Avenue
  • John Cox
  • Kathleen
  • Lake Beulah
  • Lake Bonnet
  • Lake Bonny
  • Lake Bonny Park
  • Lake Hollingsworth
  • Lake Horney
  • Lake Hunter Terrace
  • Lake Parker Park
  • Lake Watkins
  • Lakeshore
  • Lime Street
  • N. Martha
  • New Jersey Rd
  • North Lake Wire
  • Parker Street
  • Paul A. Diggs
  • Pinehurst
  • Raintree
  • Shore Acres
  • South Lake Morton
  • Southwest
  • Swannanoa
  • Tigertown
  • Watson
  • Webster Park North
  • Webster Park South
  • Westgate