Losing a beloved family member is the worst thing that can happen to a person. When the death results because of another party’s negligence or recklessness, thus preventable, it’s even more devastating. The experienced Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers at Salamati Law can hold those responsible for your loved one’s death accountable. We will fight hard so that you receive the maximum compensation for your untimely loss.
Wrongful death
On average, wrongful death lawsuits make up about 6 percent of a state’s court caseload. Behind that statistic are thousands of people mourning the death of a family member. The most frequent causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products
- Intentional acts of violence
- Premises liability
- Work-related deaths
- Gun accidents
- Toxin exposure
In some cases, suicides, fires, and drownings may also constitute wrongful death.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit?
In many states, it is the personal representative of the estate who files a wrongful death lawsuit, but that is not the case in California. Under state law, close relatives of the deceased may file a wrongful death lawsuit, in the following order of priority:
- Spouse
- Domestic partner
- Child – either biological or adopted
- Parents
- Siblings
- Financial dependents
- Next of kin under the California laws of intestate succession
Time is of the Essence
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years. However, if the death involved any government agency, such as a collision with a Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority bus, the time to file a claim is much shorter, at just six months.
Although you are grieving, it is wise to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Waiting too long can mean valuable evidence that supports your wrongful death case could disappear. In a wrongful death case, various parties may prove liable, which means a thorough investigation should begin immediately.
Wrongful death damages
Damages, or compensation, for wrongful death, may include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses relating to the injury
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of household services
- Loss of companionship
- For the deceased’s children, loss of guidance
California does not impose caps on damage awards. Since each person’s life is unique, an attorney can clarify who may file a wrongful death lawsuit based on the individual’s family history.
Contact El Monte wrongful death lawyers
If you have lost a loved one because of the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party, you need the services of a compassionate Los Angeles wrongful death attorney at Salamati Law. Call us 24/7 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation. We will review your circumstances and determine your legal options. Because we work on contingency, there is never a fee unless we win. While most cases are settled, we will go to trial when necessary.
