Miami Accident Lawyer Blog
Though violent crime fluctuates considerably over the years, statistics on these offenses are disturbing because of their high numbers. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) reports that there are up to 46,250 people arrested for violent crimes every year statewide. A closer look reveals that around 5,520 of these arrests are for violent offenses in Miami-Dade County. Fortunately, officials prosecute and punish offenders who are convicted of crimes.
While victims may gain closure after an offender is convicted, they recover nothing for their losses. In Florida, they must pursue civil remedies. Victims of crime who have suffered physical or emotional harm may be entitled to recover damages from the responsible parties. These amounts can help you cover expenses and ease suffering, so trust a Miami crime victims’ attorney to assist with your case. It is also helpful to review the main types of damages available to crime victims in Florida.
Economic Damages
These damages provide reimbursement for the financial costs incurred due to a criminal incident. They may cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any future earnings the victim may lose due to long-term injuries or disabilities.
For crime victims in Florida, proving these financial losses through documentation, such as medical records and employment information, is crucial to receiving fair compensation.
Noneconomic Damages
This type of compensation addresses the personal and emotional impact a criminal attack has on the victim’s life. Noneconomic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of favorite activities
- Impacts on personal relationships
- Diminished quality of life
While noneconomic damages are harder to quantify, they are essential for addressing the lasting trauma victims endure.
Punitive Damages for Criminal Acts
In cases involving particularly egregious criminal behavior, punitive damages may also be awarded. Unlike economic and noneconomic damages, which compensate the victim, punitive damages are designed to punish the offender and discourage future wrongful acts.
Florida courts may award punitive damages if the defendant’s actions were intentional, malicious, or grossly negligent. An example is when a property or business owner willfully ignores dangerous conditions and citations for building code violations. Failure to address them could cause an accident.
Damages and Third Parties
In some situations, crime victims may be able to seek compensation from third parties whose negligence contributed to the criminal act. For instance, property owners in Florida have a duty to ensure the safety of their premises. If inadequate security enabled the crime, the victim may pursue damages from the property owner or manager for failing to provide adequate protection.
Consult with a Miami Crime Victims Lawyer for Free
Crime victims in Florida have legal options for recovering compensation. A qualified personal injury attorney can guide you through the process, helping you understand your rights and the damages you might be entitled to recover. Our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, is prepared to pursue all at-fault parties, so please contact us at (305) 371-6000 or via our website. We can schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.