The term “wrongful death” could be something you have heard on television or read in a book that may have caused you to wonder, “What makes a death wrongful?” Wrongful death is a legal term explained in the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60. Essentially, if a person’s death is caused by another person or entity’s negligence, the legal case that may arise related to the fatal incident is known as a wrongful death action.

Concerning automobile accidents, statistics from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reveal that more than 3,000 people are killed yearly in our state in car crashes. Each of those fatalities leaves behind friends and family, meaning thousands of lives are affected yearly by preventable California accidents caused by negligence. If your family has suffered a significant loss due to another party’s carelessness or recklessness, our Grass Valley wrongful death lawyers can help guide you through the complex legal process, protect your rights, and work to maximize your financial recovery.

If you are a rightful heir to someone who lost their life due to another party’s negligence, you may be able to pursue a claim for monetary damages. An heir is usually the deceased’s parent, spouse, or child. If none of those relationships exist, siblings may be heirs.

We know that money will never be able to replace the devastating loss. However, it is often the case that the family of the deceased encounters financial problems following the death, and a wrongful death claim can help ease some of those economic burdens. A civil suit for monetary damages also conveys that negligent people or entities should be held accountable for their reckless actions or behavior.

Some of the monetary damages that may be sought in a wrongful death claim are:

• Any medical bills incurred following the fatal incident and before the death
• Future income loss – what the deceased would have been expected to earn if alive
• Funeral/burial costs
• Loss of parental guidance for children who lost a parent
• Loss of love, affection, and companionship for the loss of a spouse

Wrongful death claims can be complicated and complex. A skilled attorney will work to ensure that all losses related to the tragic death are captured. It can be painful to gather evidence to illustrate the depth of such a loss. A compassionate attorney will understand that. Having an experienced legal advocate walk you gently through the process can take many worries off your mind, allowing you time to grieve properly.

Calling an attorney is crucial and should be made soon after the tragic incident, even if you are unsure whether you are ready to retain counsel. Promptly seeking legal advice can ensure that substantial evidence is not lost due to the passage of time. Our law firm offers free consultations over the phone, in person, or via Zoom.

Many people are put off by the idea of testifying at a courtroom trial. Most wrongful death claims handled by our firm have been settled without going to trial. If it turns out that your case is in the minority and a jury trial is required, the depth of experience of our trial attorneys will put you at ease. Trials are not as intimidating as they appear on television, especially when a skilled lawyer advocates for you. Again, most of the time, a settlement can be reached without going to trial – often without even filing a lawsuit. But if the insurance company is not valuing your claim somewhat, we will force them into a courtroom.

Watch the YouTube video below to learn more about wrongful death claims.

Losing a loved one to a preventable accident is devastating. Grief is often compounded by anger, frustration, and guilt. No one is ever prepared to lose a loved one suddenly and tragically. Often, such a loss can leave a family experiencing great sadness and severe financial obstacles. For compassionate, free, and friendly advice following a fatal car crash or another deadly accident, call our experienced injury attorneys at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400. 

^{Editor’s Note: updated [cha 8.7.23] Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay mm [cs 777] cha}