When preventable accidents claim lives in the community, families deserve justice and accountability. A Clermont wrongful death attorney at Spetsas Buist can help you get answers, justice, and compensation you deserve.
In 2023, Lake County recorded exactly 83 traffic fatalities, a 12.16% increase from the 74 deaths in 2022. These tragic statistics reflect the dangerous reality on roads like Highway 27 and State Road 50 that cut through the heart of Clermont.
Our law firm has extensive experience representing grieving families throughout Clermont, Minneola, Groveland, and the surrounding South Lake County area. We understand the unique challenges of wrongful death cases, and we're familiar with local judges, rules, and procedures.
When you work with a Clermont wrongful death lawyer at our office, you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid when we secure compensation for your family. You can call us at 321-LAWSUIT for a free consultation with a lawyer at our firm, and we can help you better understand your legal rights and the process of bringing a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida.
Understanding Wrongful Death Laws in Clermont, Florida
Florida Statute § 768.19 provides families with a cause of action for wrongful death in Florida, including in Clermont. Under this law, when someone's negligence, default, or wrongful act causes another person's death, the deceased's estate can pursue legal action. Only the personal representative of the estate can file a wrongful death case in Florida, and they act on behalf of surviving family members and the estate itself.
In our experience handling wrongful death cases in Florida, we've seen how crucial it is to understand both state law and local legal dynamics. Lake County juries tend to be conservative but fair, particularly when presented with clear evidence of negligence that caused a family's devastating loss. Our attorneys know how to litigate these cases, and if necessary, present your case effectively to a local jury.
The two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits means time is critical. From the date of your loved one's death, you have just 24 months to file your lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to seek justice forever, regardless of how strong your case might be.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Clermont
Clermont's rapid growth and unique geography create specific hazards that lead to fatal accidents. According to the 2023 Florida Traffic Crash Facts, Lake County experienced 5,360 total crashes, resulting in 83 fatalities and 4,216 injuries. A Clermont wrongful death lawyer at our office can handle cases arising from various types of negligence throughout the area, including those we discuss below.
Car Accidents
Highway 27 through downtown Clermont sees heavy traffic from both local residents and tourists heading to nearby attractions. The intersection at Highway 27 and Highway 50 remains one of Lake County's most dangerous, contributing to the county's troubling auto accident statistics. State Road 561 and Old Highway 50 also present serious risks, especially during morning and evening rush hours when commuters travel to and from Orlando.
18-Wheeler and Semi-Truck Accidents
Lake County saw 768 commercial motor vehicle crashes in 2023, resulting in 15 fatalities and 317 injuries. Commercial trucks frequently travel through Clermont on Highway 27 and the Florida Turnpike, creating deadly risks for smaller vehicles. These massive vehicles require longer stopping distances and have significant blind spots that contribute to fatal crashes.
Rideshare Accidents
Uber and Lyft drivers provide essential transportation services throughout Clermont, especially during special events at the waterfront or busy weekend nights. Distracted driving, unfamiliarity with local roads, and pressure to complete rides quickly can lead to fatal accidents. These wrongful death cases often involve complex insurance issues requiring aggressive and thorough legal representation.
Motorcycle Accidents
In 2023, Lake County experienced 152 motorcycle crashes, resulting in 14 fatalities and 140 injuries. Clermont's scenic hills and lakes attract many motorcycle enthusiasts, particularly along Sugarloaf Mountain Road and the Clermont Clay Loop. Fatal motorcycle crashes frequently occur at intersections and during lane changes when negligent drivers don't check their blind spots.
Workplace Accidents and Construction Site Deaths
Clermont's construction boom has brought new residential developments like Cherry Lake, Highlands at Summerlake, and Waterbrooke, but also increased workplace accidents. Construction workers face daily hazards, from falls at heights to equipment failures. We know what it takes to hold contractors and developers accountable for safety violations, and we're here to help you.
Delivery Vehicle Accidents
The surge in online shopping means more delivery trucks navigate Clermont's residential streets daily. Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other delivery vehicles operating under tight deadlines sometimes prioritize speed over safety. When delivery drivers cause fatal accidents in neighborhoods like Kings Ridge or Greater Groves, their employers can be held liable for wrongful death.
Negligent Security Leading to Fatal Attacks
Property owners in Clermont must provide adequate security to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal acts. When apartments, shopping centers, gas stations, bars, or other businesses fail to maintain proper lighting, security cameras, security personnel, or access controls, violent crimes can occur. If negligent security contributes to a fatal assault or shooting, the property owner may face a wrongful death lawsuit.
Medical Malpractice at Area Healthcare Facilities
While Florida has great medical providers, medical errors can and do occur. Wrongful death cases arising from medical malpractice might involve surgical errors, medication mistakes, misdiagnosis, failure to diagnose cancer, or failure to properly monitor patients. These complex cases require experienced wrongful death attorneys who understand both medical standards and Florida malpractice law.
Slip and Fall Incidents
Clermont's numerous shopping centers, including the Clermont Landing and Highway 27 retail corridor, must maintain safe premises for visitors. When property owners neglect their duties and a vulnerable person dies from a slip and fall incident, they can be held liable. This includes failures to address wet floors, broken handrails, inadequate lighting, or dangerous conditions in parking lots.
Compensation Available in Clermont Wrongful Death Cases
When you schedule a free consultation with a Clermont wrongful death lawyer at our office, we'll explain all the damages available to you and your family under Florida law. Every case is unique, but compensation in wrongful death lawsuits typically includes both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
- Lost wages and benefits your loved one would have earned
- Medical bills from their final injury or illness
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of household services they provided
- Future financial support the family has lost
Non-Economic Damages
- Mental pain and suffering for surviving family members
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Loss of parental instruction for minor children
- Loss of spousal support and protection
In cases involving gross negligence, such as drunk driving deaths or extreme recklessness, punitive damages might also apply.
Why Choose Our Clermont Wrongful Death Attorneys
We combine aggressive legal representation with compassionate client service. Several of our attorneys previously worked defending insurance companies, giving us invaluable insight into their tactics and strategies. We use this knowledge to build stronger cases and negotiate more effectively for our clients.
When you work with a Clermont wrongful death lawyer at our office, you'll get comprehensive support through every step of your case:
- Direct attorney access - When you call 321-LAWSUIT, you will speak with a lawyer for your free case evaluation, not a call center or intake specialist.
- Personal communication - You get your lawyer's direct contact information for the duration of your case.
- Thorough investigation - We gather and preserve all evidence related to your loved one's death.
- Expert witnesses - We have a strong network of accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economic specialists to help build the strongest case possible.
- Insurance negotiation - We handle all communication with insurance companies to protect you from their tactics.
- Court representation - We're prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
- Maximum compensation pursuit - We fight for all available damages, including economic losses, pain and suffering, and potential punitive damages.
- Contingency fee basis - You pay nothing unless we win your case. Our law firm does not charge any upfront costs or retainer fees.
- No interest on case costs - Our law firm does not charge interest on case costs.
- Compassionate support - Our firm is a family, and we treat our clients like family.
We understand that every family's situation is unique. Whether you've lost a spouse, parent, child, or other loved one, we tailor our approach to your specific needs and circumstances. Our mission is to build a lasting relationship with our clients, and we take that mission seriously.
Steps To Take After a Wrongful Death in Clermont
If someone else's negligence took your loved one, you should take prompt action to protect your legal rights. The steps you take immediately following your loss can significantly impact the strength of your wrongful death case.
Here are some steps you can take to protect your family's legal rights:
- Obtain the death certificate - Request multiple certified copies, as you'll need them for legal proceedings and insurance claims.
- Secure the accident/incident report - Get copies of police or incident reports related to your loved one's death.
- Preserve all evidence - Keep any physical evidence related to the incident.
- Document everything - Take photographs and videos of anything that could be relevant to your case, including injuries, property damage, and the accident scene.
- Collect witness information - Get names, phone numbers, and emails of anyone who might have relevant information.
- Save all medical records - Gather any medical bills and medical records related to the incident.
- Keep financial documents - Compile pay stubs, tax returns, and employment records to help establish economic losses.
- Avoid social media - Don't post about the incident or your case on social media platforms because insurance defense attorneys will use anything and everything to minimize your claim.
- Don't sign anything - Don't sign any documents from insurance companies without having a lawyer review them.
- Don't give recorded statements - Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney because they will record your call and use your statements against you.
- Contact an attorney immediately - The sooner you have legal representation, the better chance you have at getting a good result.
Contact the Clermont Wrongful Death Attorneys At Our Law Firm
If you're looking for a lawyer in Clermont for a wrongful death case, we represent clients throughout Lake County and the State of Florida. Whether your loved one died in an auto accident on Clermont's busy roads or from another form of negligence, our wrongful death attorneys have the experience and resources to hold negligent parties accountable.
Our attorneys used to work for insurance companies, and we know their tactics and strategies. We are a focused firm that handles only cases in wrongful death and personal injury law.
Contact Spetsas Buist today at 321-LAWSUIT for a free consultation with an experienced Clermont wrongful death attorney. We'll help you understand your legal options. Let us deal with the legal complexities while you focus on healing and remembering your loved one.