The Role of Witnesses in Florida Wrongful Death Cases

When a family loses a loved one due to someone else’s actions, it is a heartbreaking and difficult time. In Florida, families who experience such a tragedy may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of legal action allows the family to seek justice for their loss and hold the responsible party accountable. In wrongful death cases, one key aspect that can make a big difference is the role of witnesses. These individuals are called upon to provide important information that helps the court understand what happened. In many cases, their knowledge and experience are critical in helping the judge and jury make decisions. At, Serrano Law, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.

A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal case filed when a person dies because of the wrongful or negligent actions of another person, company, or entity. In Florida, wrongful death cases may be brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate, often on behalf of the surviving family members. These cases aim to recover damages for the family, including financial losses, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship.

Because wrongful death cases can be complex and involve many different factors, having witnesses can be a crucial part of building a strong case. Their testimony helps explain the events leading up to the death and can provide clarity on whether the defendant’s actions caused the wrongful death. Witnesses are often called to explain details about specific areas of the case that may be difficult for an ordinary person to fully understand. They help simplify complicated information and give the court a clearer picture of the events that led to the loss of life.

How Witnesses Help in Wrongful Death Cases

In wrongful death cases, witnesses serve a very important role in helping the court understand the facts surrounding the death. They provide testimony based on what they know, observed, or reviewed. Their input helps the court assess whether the death was caused by the negligent or wrongful actions of the defendant.

Michael Serrano

Founding Attorney

Candace “Cea” Hartley

Associate Attorney

Witnesses can help explain things like medical conditions, accidents, or business practices. They provide insight into the specific details of the case, allowing the jury to make a more informed decision. For example, if the wrongful death involved a car accident, a person who specializes in accident reconstruction may be called to explain how the crash occurred and what might have caused it. If the case involves medical issues, a doctor may testify about the deceased person’s condition and whether proper medical care was provided.

In some cases, witnesses are also called to refute the claims made by the other party. For example, if the defendant argues that the death was not caused by their actions, a witness may be able to provide evidence that contradicts this claim. Their input is valuable in helping to ensure that all sides of the story are considered before a decision is made.

The Role of Medical Witnesses in Florida Wrongful Death Cases

One important group of witnesses in wrongful death cases involves those from the medical field. Medical witnesses play a key role in cases where the death involved issues related to healthcare, such as medical malpractice or negligence. In these cases, their testimony can be critical in helping the court understand whether the medical care provided met the appropriate standards.

Medical witnesses may testify about a wide range of issues, including the treatment provided to the deceased person, whether the medical staff followed proper procedures, and if any mistakes were made that led to the death. They also help explain the cause of death and whether it could have been prevented with appropriate medical care.

In cases where medical negligence is claimed, the role of medical witnesses can be especially important. They help establish whether the defendant acted with the level of care that would be expected in the medical field. If it is determined that the care provided fell below that standard, it may be considered a contributing factor in the wrongful death.

Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.”

- Mary

Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!"

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I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help."

- Sandy Carter

Accident Reconstruction and Wrongful Death Cases

Another type of witness that is often used in Florida wrongful death cases is one that focuses on accident reconstruction. This is especially true in cases involving car crashes, workplace accidents, or other incidents where the cause of death involves physical events. The role of these witnesses is to help recreate the events leading up to the death based on the available evidence.

Accident reconstruction involves analyzing things like skid marks, the damage to vehicles, witness statements, and other physical evidence to determine how an accident happened. Witnesses who focus on this type of reconstruction provide testimony that helps explain the sequence of events and whether the defendant’s actions contributed to the accident that caused the death.

Their testimony is important because it helps the court understand the mechanics of what happened and how the accident led to the loss of life. By explaining things in a way that the court can easily understand, these witnesses help strengthen the case for the family seeking justice.

Financial Witnesses in Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death cases often involve financial losses for the surviving family members. These losses may include things like medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and other expenses. Because of this, another important type of witness in Florida wrongful death cases is one that focuses on financial matters.

Witnesses who understand financial issues help explain the impact of the wrongful death on the family’s finances. They may testify about the deceased person’s earnings, future earning potential, and how their death has affected the family’s financial well-being. This testimony is important in helping the court determine the amount of damages the family may be entitled to receive.

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For example, if the deceased person was the primary breadwinner for the family, a financial witness may explain how their death will affect the family’s ability to meet their financial needs. They help put a dollar amount on the financial losses the family has experienced and will continue to experience in the future.

Why Witness Testimony Matters in Wrongful Death Cases

Witnesses are essential in Florida wrongful death cases because they provide important information that helps the court understand the details of the case. Their testimony is often used to prove key elements of the case, such as whether the defendant was responsible for the death and what damages the family is entitled to recover.

Without the input of witnesses, it can be difficult for the court to fully understand the events that led to the wrongful death. Their knowledge and insight provide clarity and help ensure that the family’s case is presented in the strongest way possible.

In many wrongful death cases, the testimony of witnesses can be the deciding factor in whether the family is successful in their claim. By explaining complicated issues in a way that is easy to understand, they help the court see the full picture and make informed decisions about the outcome of the case.

Case Results

Car Accident

This client was injured in an auto accident with a driver who improperly merged into her lane. Her vehicle was totaled. She sustained an aggravation of her pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and new disc herniations in her lower back. We obtained the full limits of both the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and our client’s underinsured motorist coverage, which were significant. The settlement was achieved without a law suit and within four months after the client finished treating.

Rear End Collision

This particular client was injured in an accident in late 2015 when she was rear-ended. She sustained an aggravation of pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and a new disc herniation which ultimately required a surgical fusion. By the time of trial, her medical bills exceeded $180,000.00. The Defendants’ offer pre-suit was $20,000.00. We were able to obtain a jury verdict of $441,000.00, plus attorneys’ fees.

Car Accident

A client was injured in a rear-end collision where he sustained an aggravation of a pre-existing disc bulge that developed into a herniation in his lower back. We obtained a jury verdict which was over 6 times what had been offered prior to trial.

Car Accident

In this case, our client injured her shoulder after being struck by a vehicle while she was performing volunteer services. The driver was traveling at such a high rate of speed entering a parking lot that he clipped another vehicle, hit a parking barrier and was launched into a tree. After the client attempted to negotiate with the insurance company prior to hiring us, we were able to obtain an amount that was over double the prior offer.

Intentional Torts

Our client was injured from an assault by a patron of a party while working security. His shoulder required multiple surgeries. He hired our office to pursue a claim to recoup his medical bills, which exceeded $130,000.00. After his assailant offered him $10,000.00 to resolve his case, we took the case to a jury to decide. The jury awarded our client all of his medical bills and tripled his award for pain and suffering.

Car Accident

This client came to us about a car wreck that occurred in 2014 where she sustained injuries. She approached our firm just one week before the statute of limitations was set to expire after being turned away by several other law firms. We filed a lawsuit and were able to obtain the limits of the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and an additional settlement from the client’s insurance carrier.

Truck Crash

This couple was injured in an automobile accident after they were rear-ended in a seven-car pileup caused by a semi-trailer. Of the 15 people who made claims on the same insurance policy, our clients each received the second and third highest offers, which covered all of their past and future medical bills and their attorney’s fees.

Truck Crash

In this case, our client was injured from a rear-end collision with an eighteen-wheeler. Her original lawyer procured a settlement offer of $7,000.00 to settle her case. Because the offer did not approach the amount of bills she incurred from accident related treatment, she came to our firm for a consultation. She decided to hire us. We promptly filed suit and obtained a settlement for her.

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How Witnesses Help Build a Strong Case

In Florida wrongful death cases, witnesses play a key role in helping to build a strong case. Their input helps the court understand complex issues and provides evidence that supports the family’s claims. By providing clear and understandable testimony, they help make the case for why the family deserves justice and compensation for their loss.

Their testimony is often used to establish liability, meaning that the defendant is responsible for the death. Witnesses also help quantify the damages the family has suffered, including both financial and emotional losses. This is important in helping the court determine the amount of compensation the family may receive.

Because wrongful death cases can be very emotional and involve significant financial stakes, having strong witness testimony can make a big difference in the outcome. Their input helps ensure that all the facts are considered and that the family’s case is presented in the best possible light.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s actions, you may be entitled to seek justice and compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit. Navigating the legal process can be challenging, especially during such a difficult time. At Serrano Law, we understand the emotional and financial toll that losing a loved one can take on a family. Our experienced legal team is here to help you through every step of the process. Contact Serrano Law today to learn more about your legal options and how we can assist you in pursuing justice for your loss.