What Families Should Know About California Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is devastating. When the death was caused by another person’s negligence or wrongful conduct, the family may also face unexpected financial and legal problems.
California law allows certain family members to pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases may result from car, motorcycle, or truck accidents, dangerous property conditions, workplace accidents involving third parties, and other forms of negligence.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Not everyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Under California law, eligible individuals may include a surviving spouse, domestic partner, children, and certain other qualifying family members.
Every family situation is different. Determining who has the legal right to bring a claim is therefore an important first step.
What Compensation May Be Available?
No amount of compensation can replace a loved one. A wrongful death claim is intended to allow surviving family members to recover certain financial and personal losses resulting from the death.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of household services, and loss of companionship, affection, protection, and support.
The compensation available depends on the circumstances of each case.
Why You Should Not Wait Too Long
Evidence can disappear over time. Police reports, photographs, surveillance video, witness statements, medical records, and financial documents may all become important in a wrongful death case.
California also has deadlines for filing wrongful death claims. Because the applicable deadline can vary depending upon the circumstances, families should consider speaking with an attorney as soon as reasonably possible.
Wrongful Death Representation in Sunnyvale, San Jose & Santa Clara County
The Law Offices of Esra Jung has more than 33 years of experience and has recovered over $80 million in compensation. We help families understand their legal rights and pursue compensation when a loved one’s death was caused by negligence or wrongful conduct.
No Win, No Fee. Free Consultation.
The Law Offices of Esra Jung is a Sunnyvale personal injury law firm serving San Jose and communities throughout Santa Clara County. Our office is physically located in Sunnyvale, California, and translator assistance is available when needed.
If you have lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence, call 408-556-0300 for a free consultation.