The sudden loss of a loved one can leave families overwhelmed with grief, unanswered questions, and unexpected financial burdens. In communities like Rockledge and the surrounding Brevard County area, fatal accidents can occur in many situations, from serious crashes on Interstate 95 or US-1 to incidents along busy corridors such as Barnes Boulevard, Murrell Road, and Fiske Boulevard. When a death occurs because someone else acted carelessly or failed to take proper precautions, Florida law allows surviving family members to seek justice through a wrongful death claim.
At Andrew Pickett Law, PLLC, our Rockledge wrongful death lawyers help families understand their legal rights after losing a loved one due to negligence. We recognize that pursuing legal action during such a difficult time can feel overwhelming. Our personal injury legal team works to manage the legal process so families can focus on supporting one another and honoring the memory of their loved one.
Investigating a Wrongful Death in Rockledge
Many fatal accidents occur because someone failed to act responsibly. Whether the incident involved a car accident, pedestrian collision, workplace injury, or unsafe property condition, our attorneys work to uncover what happened and determine who may be legally responsible.
A successful wrongful death claim typically requires demonstrating four key elements of negligence:
Duty of Care
Individuals, businesses, and professionals often have a legal obligation to act in a reasonably safe manner. Drivers must obey traffic laws and operate vehicles responsibly. Property owners must maintain safe conditions for visitors. Medical providers must deliver care that meets accepted standards.
Breach of Duty
A breach occurs when someone fails to meet this obligation. For example, a driver might speed or drive distracted on US-1 or I-95, or a property owner might fail to repair dangerous conditions that place visitors at risk.
Causation
It must also be shown that the negligent act directly caused the fatal accident. A careless driver, for instance, may cause a collision that leads to a catastrophic injury or death.
Damages
Finally, surviving family members must demonstrate that they suffered measurable losses because of the death. These damages may include both financial hardships and emotional suffering.
Our Rockledge wrongful death attorneys conduct detailed investigations to gather evidence, consult with experts when necessary, and build a strong case on behalf of the family.
Compensation Available in a Florida Wrongful Death Case
While financial recovery cannot replace a loved one, compensation can help families manage the economic consequences of an unexpected loss. A wrongful death claim may allow surviving family members to recover compensation related to the accident and its impact on their lives.
Potential damages may include:
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Funeral and burial or cremation expenses
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Medical costs incurred before the victim’s passing
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Loss of income and financial support the deceased provided
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Loss of companionship, guidance, and household services
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Emotional suffering experienced by surviving family members
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Lost wages if family members needed time away from work
Each case is unique, and our legal team carefully evaluates the circumstances to pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of the loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida?
Under Florida law, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the wrongful death claim on behalf of surviving family members. If the deceased person did not name a representative in their will, the court may appoint one.
Compensation recovered through the claim may benefit individuals such as:
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The surviving spouse
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Children of the deceased
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Parents of the deceased
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Other relatives who depended on the deceased for support
The personal representative is responsible for distributing any compensation to eligible beneficiaries according to Florida law.
Florida’s Deadline for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
Wrongful death cases are subject to strict filing deadlines. In most situations, Florida Statutes §95.11(4)(d) provides a two-year statute of limitations from the date of death to file a lawsuit.
If this deadline passes, the court may refuse to hear the case, preventing the family from seeking compensation. Because investigations and evidence collection take time, families often benefit from speaking with an attorney as soon as possible.
Why Families in Rockledge Turn to Andrew Pickett Law
Attorney Andrew Pickett brings significant courtroom experience to wrongful death cases. Before founding the firm, he served as a prosecutor and has taken more than 50 cases to trial verdict within the past decade. This background allows our team to prepare each case thoroughly and pursue litigation when necessary.
Families who work with our firm can expect a legal team that:
Handles Communication With Insurance Companies
Insurance representatives often contact families soon after an accident. Our attorneys manage these communications to help protect your rights and prevent insurers from pressuring you into unfair settlements.
Provides Clear Communication Throughout the Case
Our paralegals and attorneys maintain consistent contact with clients. We respond promptly to questions, return calls and emails, and provide regular updates about the progress of your case.
Pursues Compensation That Reflects the Full Impact of the Loss
Our firm has helped recover millions of dollars for injury victims and families. We work to ensure that compensation reflects both the financial and emotional consequences of a wrongful death.
Works on a Contingency Fee Basis
Our firm represents wrongful death clients on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees or hourly retainers. We only receive payment if we successfully recover compensation for your case.
Lawyer’s Insight: Be Careful When Speaking With Insurance Adjusters
After a fatal accident, insurance companies may quickly contact family members to request recorded statements or offer early settlements. While these conversations may seem routine, early statements can sometimes be used later to minimize the value of a claim.
Before providing detailed statements or signing any documents, families may benefit from speaking with a wrongful death attorney who can review the situation and help protect their legal rights.
Speak With a Rockledge Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If your family lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence in Rockledge or elsewhere in Brevard County, you may have legal options available. A wrongful death lawyer can help investigate the accident, determine liability, and pursue compensation on behalf of your family.
The legal team at Andrew Pickett Law, PLLC can explain your options and guide you through the legal process with care and compassion.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how our Rockledge wrongful death lawyers may be able to help your family seek justice.
Meet Andrew Pickett
Dealing with the murky policies of insurance companies designed to confuse and prevent you from receiving compensation is our expertise.
15+ years experience as a personal injury attorney.
Specialized in battling insurance companies.
95% settlement rate for clients.
Handled 500+ personal injury cases.
Collected more than $38 million for clients.
500+ people have chosen Andrew as their attorney.
520+ Satisfied Clients
Total reviews: 520 | Average rating: 5
Danielle Theodorides
Courtney LaChapelle
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Primo Garcia
For almost 2 yrs Mr. Pickett and his team worked endlessly on my case. They showed tremendous dedication and drive. Lindsey was always staying in contact and always reassuring me that they got this so don’t worry. Today I get a call stating we WON, all I can say is thank God that Andrew and Lindsey took my case because without them I don’t know what would have happened. God bless them both I love you guys.
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I had a chance to work with Andrew, he’s an incredible trial attorney and a wonderful human being.
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