A fatal car accident rips families apart in seconds. One reckless driver’s decision can leave you grieving a loved one while facing financial and emotional devastation. In Florida, these tragedies happen every single day, and insurance companies often try to limit what your family receives. At Souder Law, we stand with you, aggressively fighting to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the justice your loved one deserves.
What Are Fatal Car Accidents?
Fatal car accidents are a devastating reality on Florida’s roads. In 2024, 2,423 fatal crashes statewide claimed the lives of 2,589 people. That means an average of seven or more lives are lost every single day due to motor vehicle collisions. With a fatality rate of about 15.9 deaths per 100,000 residents, Florida consistently ranks above the national average in fatal car crashes.
A fatal car accident occurs when a collision results in the death of one or more individuals at the scene or from injuries sustained afterward. These can involve cars, trucks, motorcycles, or pedestrians and often stem from reckless driving, speeding, intoxication, or distraction. In Florida, families of victims may pursue a wrongful death claim to hold negligent parties accountable for both the economic losses and the emotional toll caused by the tragedy.
Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents:
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving leading to loss of control
- Distracted driving, including texting or phone use behind the wheel
- Excessive speeding on highways and local roads
- Reckless or aggressive driving, such as unsafe lane changes or tailgating
- Head-on collisions from wrong-way driving or unsafe passing
- Failure to yield at intersections or running red lights and stop signs
- Fatigue or drowsy driving, especially on long trips
- Poor weather conditions, which can reduce visibility and traction
- Defective vehicle parts, such as brakes or tires that fail unexpectedly
- Multi-vehicle pileups that create chain-reaction fatalities on busy highways
How We Handle Your Fatal Car Accident Claim
When a fatal car accident takes the life of a loved one, Souder Law immediately begins a thorough investigation into the crash. We secure accident reports, gather photographs and video footage, consult with reconstruction experts, and identify all potentially liable parties, from negligent drivers to commercial vehicle operators. We also work with medical and financial professionals to calculate the full extent of your family’s losses, including the future financial support your loved one would have provided.
We also take on the burden of dealing with the insurance companies so your family is not pressured into accepting a lowball settlement. Our team carefully evaluates all coverage options, including liability, PIP, and uninsured/underinsured motorist policies, to maximize all possible avenues for recovery. If insurers resist, we are fully prepared to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in court to hold those responsible accountable for the loss.
Damages Available in Fatal Car Accidents
After a fatal car accident, it is critical to identify all liable parties, whether that includes another driver, a trucking company, a rideshare provider, or a vehicle manufacturer. Multiple parties may share responsibility, and uncovering every source of liability ensures your family can pursue the full measure of compensation the law allows. This process is essential because insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame to reduce their responsibility.
Once liability is proven, families may pursue compensation that can include:
- Medical expenses related to the final injury
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of income and future financial support
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection
- Mental pain and suffering of surviving family members
- Loss of household services previously provided by the deceased
- Punitive damages in cases of extreme recklessness or misconduct
Do Criminal Charges Impact a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death lawsuit is separate from any criminal proceedings against the at-fault driver. Even if the driver is charged with DUI manslaughter or vehicular homicide, the family can still file a civil lawsuit to pursue financial compensation. Importantly, a civil claim has a lower burden of proof than a criminal case, meaning families can often succeed in recovering damages even if criminal charges do not result in a conviction.
Steps to Take Immediately After Fatal Car Accidents:
- Call 911 and report the crash to law enforcement and emergency services
- Remain at the scene and cooperate fully with responding officers
- Gather contact details of witnesses and other drivers involved
- Take photographs of the vehicles, roadway, and surrounding area if possible
- Obtain the official police accident report for documentation
- Notify your insurance company about the accident without admitting fault
- Seek immediate legal guidance from an experienced wrongful death attorney
- Preserve all medical records, bills, and funeral-related expenses
- Avoid speaking with the at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster without representation
- Begin filing a wrongful death claim within Florida’s two-year statute of limitations
Find Out What Your Case is Worth (At No Cost)
Souder Law is here to help families across Jupiter, Palm Beach County, and South Florida understand the true value of a fatal car accident claim. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means it costs you nothing and you only pay if we recover compensation for you. Our team aggressively investigates every aspect of your case to pursue full justice. Contact us today for a free case review and find out what your claim may be worth.
