Losing someone you love is painful enough, but when that loss happens because of negligence, recklessness, or misconduct, the grief is often mixed with anger and confusion. Many families in Palm Beach Gardens turn to a wrongful death attorney in Palm Beach Gardens to understand their rights and explore whether pursuing a fatal accident claim could provide justice and financial support. At Hicks & Motto, we know how overwhelming this process can feel, and our role is to help families navigate it with clarity and compassion.
Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits
A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal action taken when someone’s life is cut short because of another party’s negligence or intentional wrongdoing. We typically help families pursue a fatal accident claim to recover damages like funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship. Florida statutes outline who may file these claims, how they work, and what compensation may be available.
If you want to understand related injury claims and timelines in more detail, this resource can help.
What Constitutes a Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death can arise from various situations, including:
- Car accidents caused by reckless or drunk drivers
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Criminal acts, such as assault or homicide
Because each fatal accident claim is different, working with a knowledgeable wrongful death attorney in Palm Beach Gardens ensures every detail is examined and no crucial evidence is overlooked.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Florida, the wrongful death statute specifies that the personal representative of the deceased’s estate is responsible for filing the lawsuit. This representative acts on behalf of the deceased’s estate and the surviving family members. The family members who may benefit from a wrongful death claim include:
- The spouse of the deceased
- Children of the deceased
- Parents of the deceased
- Other blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were dependent on the deceased for support or services
Understanding your rights is essential, and we help families determine exactly who can take part in the compensation process for a fatal accident claim.
Types of Compensation Available
Compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit can cover a range of damages, both economic and non-economic. These include:
Economic Damages
These are quantifiable financial losses resulting from the death, such as:
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of the deceased’s expected earnings
- Loss of benefits, such as pension plans or insurance coverage
Non-Economic Damages
These damages are more subjective and may include:
- Pain and suffering endured by the deceased before death
- Loss of companionship and protection for the spouse
- Mental pain and suffering for the family members
A seasoned wrongful death attorney in Palm Beach Gardens ensures your fatal accident claim accounts for every possible category of compensation.
Statutes and Timelines
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally two years from the date of death. This means that the lawsuit must be filed within this timeframe, or the right to pursue compensation may be lost. However, there can be exceptions based on the specifics of the case, so it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand your options.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline
Several issues can impact how long a fatal accident claim takes:
- The complexity of the case and the need for thorough investigation
- Negotiations with insurance companies
- Potential delays due to court schedules
Given these variables, starting the process early with the help of a legal professional can be advantageous.
The Role of a Wrongful Death Attorney
Working with a committed wrongful death attorney in Palm Beach Gardens is crucial. At Hicks & Motto, we guide families through every stage of a fatal accident claim, including:
- Conducting a thorough investigation to gather evidence
- Identifying all liable parties
- Calculating the full extent of damages
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached
Our mission is to protect families’ rights while providing compassionate support during one of life’s most difficult moments.
Pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit is never easy, but having the right legal support can make the process clearer and ensure your family’s rights are protected. If you believe a loved one’s passing may qualify for a fatal accident claim, speaking with an experienced wrongful death attorney in Palm Beach Gardens is one of the most important steps you can take.
At Hicks & Motto, we stand beside Palm Beach Gardens families with the guidance they deserve. We’re here to help you understand your options, gather the facts, and seek justice on behalf of your loved one. Reach out anytime to discuss your case and learn how we can support you.

