Death on the High Seas Act (DOSHA)

          While technology, ship design, and regulations have greatly improved the safety of the maritime industry, tragedies at sea still occur.  For example the SS El Faro went down with all 33 souls onboard on October 1, 2015.  The Death on the High Seas Act (DOSHA) is a federal statute which enables families to recover for the wrongful death of a loved one while at sea caused by the negligence or unseaworthiness of a vessel while in international waters.  

          The loss of a loved one is devastating both emotionally as well as financially.  The experienced maritime attorneys of Biggs & Gunst are here to help.  If a loved one was killed while at sea it is important that you hire experienced maritime attorneys to help you recover the compensation that you deserve.  Compensation for the death of a loved one can include pre-death pain and suffering; loss of financial support; loss of nurture, care and guidance for children; loss of inheritance; funeral expenses; and many others depending on the circumstances of your loved one’s passing and the impact the loss has had on you.  

          While there is generally three years to file for a wrongful death suit it is important that you contact an experienced maritime attorney to represent you as soon as possible.  As time passes it is difficult to investigate the facts and circumstances of your loved one’s death and unfortunately key pieces of evidence could have been destroyed and witnesses’ memories fade.  

          If you have lost a loved at sea contact us today, our maritime attorneys understand that no amount of money will bring back a loved one but we are here to help you move forward so you are financially secure and earn closure. Our experienced maritime attorneys understand your situation and want to help you receive the financial compensation and justice you deserve.

Michigan Wrongful Death

          Accidents on even the smallest lakes and rivers can and do occur, and a happy day on the water can turn deadly quickly.  If you have lost a loved in Michigan territorial waters due to the negligence of another you may be able to recover under Michigan’s Wrongful Death Statute.   

          The death of a loved one is a terrible experience both emotionally and financially.  Michigan’s Wrongful Death Statute allows family members including; spouses and children; parents and grandparents; and brothers and sisters to file suit on behalf of their deceased loved one.  Under the Statute the court may award damages to the family and estate including but not limited to reasonable hospital, medical, and funeral expenses; loss of present and future earnings and income; any pain and suffering the your loved one endured in their final moments; and pain and suffering the family has felt as the result of the loss of your loved one.

          Typically the estate of the deceased has three years from their of death to bring a wrongful death suit however it is important that you act fast.  With the passing of time key pieces of evidence could become lost and witnesses memories fade.  As time goes on it is much more difficult to investigate the death of your loved one and gather the evidence needed to get you the justice you deserve.

          Our attorneys know that the loss of a loved one is devastating and no amount of money can bring them back but we are here to help you move forward.  If you have lost a loved one in an accident while on the water in Michigan contact our experienced maritime attorneys today.  We will work with you and fight to get you the justice and closure you deserve.  

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