San Bernardino Wrongful Death Lawyer

Secure Fair Compensation After Fatal Accidents in California

Not all accidents result in personal injury claims. Some cases are much more serious and result in the loss of a life. Nothing can truly compensate for the death of a loved one, but even so, the person responsible for causing the terrible accident should be held accountable for their negligence. We can help you hold that individual responsible with the assistance of a wrongful death attorney near me.

At Vetchtein Law, our San Bernardino wrongful death attorneys have helped numerous California families who have lost someone to negligence receive the compensation they need to pay for funeral expenses, medical bills, and more.

While filing a lawsuit cannot bring back your loved one, it can help you achieve justice on their behalf and allow you and your family to make it through this harrowing situation with as little hardship as possible. We dedicate ourselves to guiding you through the legal process with compassion and precision, ensuring you understand each step along the way.

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• Leading Causes of Wrongful Death
• Understanding California's Wrongful Death Laws

Contact our firm now at (888) 963-9999 to learn more about how our wrongful death lawyer in San Bernardino can assist you during this time by scheduling a free case evaluation. We are available 24/7 for all your legal needs.

Who is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In California, the law specifies who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim. The surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children of the departed are typically the first in line. If none of these relatives exist, the right to file may extend to other family members, like parents or siblings, who were financially dependent on the deceased.

The following groups could be eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

• Surviving Spouse or Domestic Partner: The partner or registered domestic partner of the deceased has the direct right to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Children of the Deceased: The children of the deceased, including legally adopted children, are eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim.
• Parents or Siblings: If there is no surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children, other family members, like parents or siblings, could be able to file a claim if they can establish financial dependency on the deceased.
• Other Dependents: In some cases, other individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased may also be qualified to file a wrongful death lawsuit, including stepchildren or putative spouses (someone who thought in good faith that they were married to the deceased).

It's important to understand that wrongful death claims are time-sensitive. In the state of California, the statute of limitations generally demands that the claim be filed within two years of the initial date of death. Neglecting this deadline can result in losing the right to pursue compensation, making it essential to consult a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. Consulting with a legal professional will not only help you file in a timely manner but also accurately assess the damages and losses associated with your specific situation.

Leading Causes of Wrongful Death in San Bernardino

In the state of California, wrongful death is defined by law as “a cause of action for the death of a person caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another.” In other words, if you have lost a loved one due to someone’s reckless or careless action (or, in some cases, inaction), you can sue them for financial compensation.

Common causes of wrongful death in California include:

• Airplane accidents
• Animal attacks
• Bicycle accidents
• Construction accidents and other work mishaps
• Defective products
• Drunk driving accidents
• Motor vehicle accidents involving cars, trucks, and motorcycles
• Pedestrian accidents
• Premises liability accidents
• Train accidents

It is crucial to consult with wrongful death attorneys who have familiarity with these types of incidents as they can bring forth evidence that may not be apparent to someone unversed in the intricacies of wrongful death laws. For instance, expert testimony or accident reconstruction can be employed to demonstrate how negligence contributed to the loss. The impact of such accidents is far-reaching, often affecting the economic framework of a family by eliminating a primary source of financial support, further underscoring the importance of pursuing rightful compensation.

Understanding California's Wrongful Death Laws

In the state of California, the surviving family and dependents of a wrongful death victim have the ability to file a claim for compensation within two years of the date of the accident.

Such claims can request compensation for economic and non-economic damages, such as:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Property damage
• Loss of income
• Pain and suffering
• Grief counseling costs
• Loss of consortium

Some of these damages can be easily calculated by examining bills and bank statements. Noneconomic damages are not so simple, however, which is why you will need to retain the counsel and representation of a skilled wrongful death lawyer in San Bernardino.

Wrongful death claims are complex, and without proper representation, you may be denied fair compensation for your loss. Only an attorney with experience in wrongful death cases will be able to fight for a full recovery of all your present and ongoing damages. More importantly, they can provide guidance and support through the emotional and legal maze, keeping your interests as the centerpiece while advocating for your family’s future. Don't underestimate the emotional toll, and let professionals shoulder the legal burdens so that you can focus on healing.

California's Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations

In the state of California, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the date of the deceased's passing or from the date the injury occurred that eventually led to death.

Statutes of limitations exist not only in California but in other states too, so it is prudent to speak with local counsel to ensure you have all the relevant information before proceeding. Our knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer will ensure that the legal process is completed in an orderly manner and that any applicable deadlines are not missed. Comprehensive understanding and strict adherence to these timeframes can drastically affect the outcome, and in navigating these regulations, we provide peace of mind and strategic focus.

Get Help from a Compassionate San Bernardino Wrongful Death Lawyer

As a family member of someone who was killed in an accident, you should not hesitate to fight for justice. Vetchtein Law holds membership with the American Association for Justice (AAJ) and the American Bar Association, as well as the State Bar of California.

By hiring our firm, you will partner with a wrongful death attorney who possesses the experience and determination to win your case.

Call our San Bernardino wrongful death lawyer at (888) 963-9999 or fill out our online form for dedicated support. Free consultations are available.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a legal action taken by the surviving family of a person who died due to another party’s wrongful actions or negligence. The claim seeks financial compensation for losses such as income, companionship, and emotional suffering. In San Bernardino, pursuing a wrongful death claim within the legal time frame is crucial to maintaining your rights. Consulting with a local wrongful death attorney can help you navigate this legal process effectively, ensuring you understand all facets of your case and the potential compensation you are entitled to.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Wrongful Death Claim?

The timeline for resolving a wrongful death claim can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of parties to negotiate. While some claims might settle in a few months, others could take years if they proceed to trial. Factors such as the availability of evidence, eyewitness testimonies, and expert reports can influence the duration. An experienced attorney will work diligently to expedite the process while ensuring the claimants receive fair compensation. Staying informed throughout your claim will help manage expectations and reduce stress during a challenging time.

What Compensation Is Available in Wrongful Death Cases?

Compensation in a wrongful death claim typically includes economic damages such as medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of future earnings. Non-economic damages, which cover pain and suffering or loss of companionship, can also be substantial. In rare cases, punitive damages might be awarded to punish particularly egregious conduct by the defendant. A knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer can calculate potential compensation, advocating for your rights and ensuring that all relevant damages are adequately pursued.

How Do I Prove Negligence in a Wrongful Death Claim?

Proving negligence requires demonstrating that the defendant owed a duty to the deceased, breached that duty, and directly caused their death resulting in damages. Gathering compelling evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and forensic analyses helps establish these critical elements. A dedicated legal team will work tirelessly to build a robust case, consulting with experts and ensuring that all evidence is meticulously compiled to support your claim.