Use The Death On The High Seas Act To Get Compensation After A Wrongful Death

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 on board on October 1, 2015. The Death on the High Seas Act (DOSHA) is a federal statute that enables families to recover for the wrongful death of loved ones 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 and financially. The experienced maritime attorneys of Biggs & Gunst P.C. Attorneys At Law 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 predeath pain and suffering; loss of financial support; loss of nurture, care and guidance for children; loss of inheritance; funeral expenses; and more, depending on the circumstances of your loved one’s passing and the impact the loss has 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, as, unfortunately, key pieces of evidence can be destroyed and witnesses’ memories can fade.

Get Help After A Wrongful Death In Michigan

Accidents on even the smallest lakes and rivers can and do occur, and a happy day on the water can quickly turn deadly. If you have lost a loved one in Michigan on 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 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 death to bring a wrongful death suit. However, it is important that you act fast. With the passing of time, key pieces of evidence can become lost and witnesses’ memories can 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.

Take Action After A Wrongful Death. We Can Help.

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 at sea, or on the water in Michigan, contact our attorneys today – just call 734-720-4445 or reach us by email. We offer a free initial consultation by phone or in our Ann Arbor office.

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 that you can be financially secure and earn closure. We understand your situation and want to help you receive the financial compensation and justice you deserve.