It is difficult for the surviving family of a motor vehicle crash victim to pick up where they left off since the death of a loved one significantly changes the family’s dynamic and lifestyle. If the member involved in the motor vehicle crash is the household’s primary source of income, the family would also have to adjust significantly to continuously provide for their well-being. With this issue, they may consider seeking damages against the driver at fault.
“No-fault” rule and exception
Generally, Florida is a no-fault car insurance state. This means that the drivers will recover compensation from their respective insurers no matter who is at fault. However, an exception is if the victim suffers a permanent injury which includes death. In this case, the victim’s family may bring a claim against the at-fault driver.
Common damages
Florida laws protect the family members of car wreck victims and allow them to recover damages for the loss of their loved ones, given the circumstances of the crash permit them to do so. Common compensation that the law entitles families of victims to receive may include:
- Medical bills
- Funeral and burial costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- Punitive damages or the defendant’s payment for the offense
- Property damage
Seeking compensation for the loss of a loved one can be a tedious process. But knowing that there are damages available for the surviving family members of victims can ease any financial worries that they may have.