All too tragically, drunk driving accidents can end in death. While grief and distress may overwhelm family members, the law provides for damage compensation to family members if the deceased person could have pursued a Fort Lauderdale drunk driving accident claim if they had lived.
This is known as a wrongful death claim, for which survivors can seek damages.
- Medical or funeral expenses any surviving family member paid (or that were paid by the estate, if the suit is brought by the estate).
- Value of support and services the deceased provided.
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection the deceased provided.
- Mental and emotional pain and suffering stemming from the loss of a child.
Under the law, the deceased person’s spouse, children, and parents, and any blood relative or adoptive sibling who is either partially or entirely dependent on the deceased are eligible to bring a wrongful death suit against the negligent party.
Under some circumstances, the estate may bring a suit as well.