Losing a family member can be one of the most difficult moments in a person’s life. You may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help if you lost a loved one in a wrongful death accident in Los Angeles. We understand how challenging it can be to move forward after losing a loved one.
Our compassionate wrongful death lawyers in Los Angeles at the Simmrin Law Group are here to assist you during this time. While we cannot bring your loved one back, we can help you obtain the compensation necessary to cover funeral expenses and other losses.
Get the Facts About Wrongful Death Claims in California
The state of California uses specific regulations to handle wrongful death claims. For example, you have a limited time to file a claim after your loved one is killed. Additionally, only certain people can seek compensation for a wrongful death. California restricts wrongful death claims to an individual’s:
- Spouse
- Domestic partner
- Surviving children
However, if no one in the decedent’s direct line of descent can file a wrongful death claim, the right may open up to others. In certain situations, you may be able to file a claim if you lost your child or your sibling. Stepchildren may also be able to bring a wrongful death claim, in some cases.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (310) 928-9347
Types of Compensation for Wrongful Death Cases in Los Angeles
You may be entitled to compensation if you lost a loved one in a wrongful death accident in Los Angeles. Generally, the damages awarded in a wrongful death case are divided into two primary categories. These categories include losses associated with the decedent’s estate and personal losses for surviving family members.
Losses Associated With the Decedent’s Estate
Losses tied to the estate of your loved one can help you cover the costs for a burial or funeral. Additionally, any medical expenses accrued prior to the loss of your loved one may be covered. Finally, you may be awarded compensation for the lost income of your family member.
Personal Losses for Surviving Family Members
You may also be awarded compensation tied to your personal losses after a family member’s death. The court system in California may provide you with damages for the loss of:
- Love and affection
- Attention and moral support
- Anticipated financial support
- Household services
A wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles can help ensure that all your losses are fairly compensated. Start getting professional help on your side now.
Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer Near Me (310) 928-9347
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Wrongful death accidents can have several possible causes. Many wrongful deaths occur every year as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Our compassionate legal team can help if you lost a loved one in a:
- Car accident
- Motorcycle accident
- Truck accident
- Pedestrian accident
Workplace accidents are often responsible for a number of fatal accidents every year. Individuals who work construction may be at higher levels of risk than other workers, but accidents can strike anyone without warning.
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Responsibility for a Wrongful Death Accident in California
You cannot be automatically awarded compensation for the loss of a loved one in the state of California. To get the damages necessary to move forward with your life, you must file a wrongful death claim against the individual responsible for the accident.
Individuals may be responsible for a wrongful death accident if they caused the accident through willful actions or negligence. Anyone who does not exercise a reasonable amount of consideration for the safety of others could be held responsible for a wrongful death in California.
However, your wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles will need to prove responsibility to bring you compensation. The team at the Simmrin Law Group can build your claim by:
- Investigating the site of the accident
- Speaking with witnesses who saw the accident
- Going over your loved one’s medical records
- Reviewing police records tied to the accident
We may be able to negotiate with insurance agents to bring you a settlement after a wrongful death accident. Our team can also stand up for you in court, working to bring you a verdict in your favor after the loss of a loved one.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
After a person dies a wrongful death in California, their loved ones typically have two years to file a lawsuit. However, under certain circumstances, the period to file may be reduced. It is critical that you file the paperwork on time. Otherwise, you could lose out on necessary compensation.
The best way to ensure that you get the money you need is to contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible after your loved one is killed. An experienced lawyer will be able to identify if there are any special conditions that limit the time you have to file and make sure all deadlines are met.
Hiring a lawyer early has the added benefit of putting them in the best possible position to build a strong case. Your attorney will be able to gather any physical evidence before it can become lost or unusable. They can also record witness testimony while the event is still fresh in the minds of those who were there.
Negotiating a Settlement in a Wrongful Death Case
The majority of wrongful death cases never see the inside of a courtroom. Instead, the victims receive an out-of-court settlement from the responsible party. While reaching a fair settlement is often in the best interest of all involved, it is important not to rush through the settlement process.
Do not take any settlement offer without first consulting with an experienced wrongful death attorney. For people who are unaccustomed to dealing with these types of situations, it can be difficult to judge the full long-term costs of losing a loved one. A lawyer can assess the situation you face and determine whether a settlement offer is in your best interest or not.
If the deal you are offered is insufficient, your attorney can negotiate to get you more money. Sometimes, the liable party is unwilling to agree to a suitable figure. In this case, your attorney will argue your case in court and fight to get you a favorable decision.
Get Help From a Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer
The team at the Simmrin Law Group can help if you lost a loved one in a wrongful death accident in California. You can reach out to us right away to get legal assistance. We can go over your unique needs today with a free consultation.
Contact our wrongful death lawyers in Los Angeles by calling us or completing our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 928-9347 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form