By Christopher Dyer, Partner at Lucas, Macyszyn & Dyer Injury Attorneys · Member, The Florida Bar · Last updated October 13, 2026
If you lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence in Inverness, no claim can undo that loss. What Florida law can do is hold the responsible party accountable and help your family recover. Florida’s Wrongful Death Act allows certain family members to pursue a claim, and there is generally a two-year deadline to act.
What a wrongful death claim is
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies because of another party’s negligence or wrongful act, such as a crash, a fall, or unsafe conditions. Florida’s Wrongful Death Act is found at Fla. Stat. §§ 768.16 to 768.26.
Who can file, and what can be recovered
The claim is brought by the personal representative of the estate on behalf of the surviving family members (Fla. Stat. § 768.19). Recoverable damages can include the survivors’ lost support and services, loss of companionship and guidance, mental pain and suffering for certain family members, and medical and funeral expenses (Fla. Stat. § 768.21). Most wrongful death claims must be filed within two years (Fla. Stat. § 95.11).
Steps to Take After a Wrongful Death in Inverness
Take the time your family needs. When you are ready, gather what you have: records, reports, and names.
Avoid signing anything or giving a recorded statement to an insurer first.
Talk to a local attorney about who can file and the deadline that applies.
Let the attorney handle the investigation and the insurance company.
Frequently asked questions
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Florida? The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the claim on behalf of the surviving family members, under Fla. Stat. § 768.19.
What can a family recover in a wrongful death case? Damages can include lost support and services, loss of companionship, mental pain and suffering for certain survivors, and medical and funeral expenses, under Fla. Stat. § 768.21.
How long do we have to file? Most Florida wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the death, under Fla. Stat. § 95.11. It is best to confirm the deadline with an attorney, since exceptions can apply.
Talk to a real attorney, free
If your family lost someone because of another party’s negligence in Inverness or anywhere in Citrus County, we are here to help with compassion and care. Get a free case evaluation: no pressure, no obligation, and no fee unless we win your case. (Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.)
About the author
Christopher Dyer is a partner at Lucas, Macyszyn & Dyer Injury Attorneys and a member of The Florida Bar. The firm has more than 20 years of experience and has recovered over $100 million for injured clients across West Central Florida.
This article is general information about Florida law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different. Talk to an attorney about your specific situation.
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