Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death can occur under many different circumstances, often when someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions lead to the loss of life. It’s important to recognize the situations that may constitute a wrongful death to better understand your potential claim. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: These include car, bus, truck, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents, often caused by speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior.
- Drunk Driving Accidents: If someone operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and causes a fatal accident, they may be held accountable.
- Medical Malpractice: Death resulting from errors in medical treatment or diagnosis.
- Workplace Accidents: Fatal accidents occurring due to unsafe working conditions or employer negligence.
- Defective Products: Fatal injuries caused by defective or dangerous products.
- Premises Liability: Accidents on someone else’s property, such as slips and falls or fatal injuries due to poorly maintained conditions.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Fatal accidents where a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, often resulting from driver negligence.
If any of these situations seem to mirror your circumstances, consulting with a wrongful death attorney may be beneficial. They can provide guidance on whether you have grounds to file a claim and help you navigate the legal process.
Damages in a Wrongful Death Action
Wrongful death actions are two actions in one. The first is to compensate the family for their loss, which includes funeral expenses, burial expenses, and loss of comfort and financial support. The second is a survival action in the name of the estate to compensate for the deceased's loss in the accident. This can be brought up if the deceased survives even for a little while and will cover medical expenses, ambulance costs, property losses, pain and suffering, and sometimes punitive damages.
However, before a family can receive damages for the loss of their loved one, the claim must be made, and the case must be proven. This is where a wrongful death attorney proves to be invaluable. With our team of professionals on your side, we will ensure that your rights are upheld and that you receive justice. Who is allowed to bring a wrongful death case before the court? Every state has slightly different laws regarding this issue, but immediate family members have the right to file a lawsuit in every state. This includes spouses, children, and parents if the victim was unmarried. In other states, life partners and those financially dependent on the deceased can also claim compensation. If you can file a lawsuit, you could file a claim against the drunk driver, the big rig driver, or whoever was the cause of your loved one's death.
Statute of Limitations and Common Causes in Wrongful Death Cases
Each state sets specific time limits for filing wrongful death lawsuits, and California is no exception. Understanding the statute of limitations is essential to ensure your case is filed within the required period. If you miss this deadline, you may forfeit your ability to pursue legal action. Below are important time constraints to be aware of when considering a wrongful death claim:
- In California, the general statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the date of the victim's death.
- If the case involves government entities or employees, the filing time frame may be much shorter, typically six months.
- If the case is not filed within the appropriate time frame, you risk losing the opportunity to seek compensation for your loved one's death.
Understanding the Importance of Legal Support in Wrongful Death Cases
Navigating the legal landscape after the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming, especially in wrongful death cases. At McGee Lerer Ogrin, we understand the emotional and financial complexities families face during these challenging times. Our dedicated team is committed to not only providing expert legal representation but also offering compassionate support to help you through this difficult journey.
Here are a few reasons why having experienced legal counsel is crucial in wrongful death cases:
- Expertise in Legal Procedures: Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of wrongful death laws and procedures in California, ensuring that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.
- Thorough Investigation: We perform detailed investigations to gather necessary evidence, identify liable parties, and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Maximizing Compensation: Our skilled negotiators work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your loss, including medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
- Emotional Support: The aftermath of a wrongful death can leave emotional scars. Our team provides a supportive environment to discuss your concerns and needs, making the legal process as stress-free as possible.
Choosing McGee Lerer Ogrin means prioritizing your family's well-being while securing the justice and compensation you deserve. Reach out to our office today for a free consultation and take the first step towards healing.
Why Choose McGee Lerer Ogrin for Your Wrongful Death Case?
Choosing the right attorney to handle a wrongful death case is crucial for seeking justice and compensation for your loved one. At McGee Lerer Ogrin, we pride ourselves on our compassionate approach and relentless pursuit of justice for our clients. Our team brings years of specialized experience in wrongful death lawsuits, coupled with a deep understanding of California laws. This combination allows us to effectively advocate for you during this challenging time.
Here are a few reasons why clients trust us:
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to listen to your story and understand your unique situation, ensuring that your case is tailored to your needs.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has successfully secured significant settlements and verdicts for wrongful death cases, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for your rights.
- Full Transparency: We maintain clear communication throughout the legal process, so you always know what to expect and how your case is progressing.
- No Upfront Fees: You don’t pay us unless we win your case. This ensures our interests are aligned with yours.
- Extensive Resources: Our firm utilizes expert witnesses, investigators, and all necessary resources to build a strong case on your behalf.
Trusting us with your wrongful death case means choosing a team that is dedicated to fighting for justice while providing you with the support you need during a difficult time. Let us guide you through this complex legal journey.
Contact Our Santa Monica Wrongful Death Attorney Today
We are a husband and wife team with decades of combined experience handling death cases. Our goal has been to provide personalized, top-quality legal service to individuals and families. Satisfied clients have spread the word and are rewarding us with a thriving practice. We have a reputation for courtroom skills, and as a result, we find that insurance companies would often settle with us for top compensation rather than go to trial against our attorneys. We settle 98% of our cases before trial.
Contact McGee Lerer Ogrin today to schedule a FREE consultation with our wrongful death lawyer in Santa Monica!
