Unparalleled Experience In Admiralty And Maritime Injury Law

Death On The High Seas Act Claims

When an accidental death occurs on navigable waters, there is a large difference in recoverable damages depending upon where the death occurred. Unfortunately, when a death has occurred beyond three nautical miles from the shore of any U.S. state or territory, a federal statute called the Death on the High Seas Act (DOSHA) applies.

Whether the death occurred during recreational or employment activities, our Florida maritime attorneys at Munch and Munch, P.A., have a unique understanding of how the law works and what damages are recoverable for these maritime death cases. DOSHA claims must be brought by the personal representative of the estate (the deceased) on behalf of the deceased party’s financially dependent relatives, including his or her spouse, children, parents, and others. In a DOSHA action, recovery is limited to monetary damages (lost wages and burial costs) and unfortunately does not allow for recovery of non-pecuniary damage (punitive damages, care and comfort, loss of consortium/companionship of the loved one). Damages for pre-death pain and suffering of the deceased are also not recoverable under DOSHA.

Our Florida maritime attorneys at Munch and Munch, P.A., have years of experience with DOSHA claims and can help you navigate your potential claim. It is essential to your claim to have an experienced maritime attorney who knows important nuances of maritime law that can make a huge difference to your claim. Call 888-976-3759 or email us for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and potential recovery.