Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one due to negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct is a devastating experience. Wrongful death claims arise when a person dies due to another party’s carelessness or wrongful actions, such as in car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, or acts of violence. Families may be entitled to compensation for financial and emotional losses.
At Highway Law Group, we understand the profound impact of losing a loved one, and we are committed to helping families seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death can occur in various situations, often resulting from preventable accidents or misconduct. Common causes include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents – Fatal crashes involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, or pedestrians.
- Medical Malpractice – Surgical errors, misdiagnoses, or failure to provide proper treatment.
- Workplace Accidents – Construction site injuries, industrial incidents, and exposure to hazardous conditions.
- Defective Products – Faulty machinery, dangerous drugs, or unsafe consumer goods.
- Acts of Violence – Homicide or other intentional acts resulting in death.
- Nursing Home Negligence – Elder abuse, neglect, or failure to provide adequate medical care.
If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim.
Compensation for Wrongful Death Claims
A wrongful death claim can provide financial relief and justice for grieving families. Compensation may include:
- Medical Expenses – Coverage for medical care before the victim’s passing.
- Funeral & Burial Costs – Financial support for funeral arrangements and final expenses.
- Lost Income & Financial Support – Compensation for lost wages and future earnings the deceased would have provided.
- Pain and Suffering – Damages for the emotional distress experienced by surviving family members.
- Loss of Companionship – Compensation for the loss of love, guidance, and support.
- Punitive Damages – Additional compensation in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm.
Highway Law Group fights to ensure families receive the compensation they deserve during this difficult time.
Wrongful Death FAQ
What if the owner says it was my fault?
Even if there are questions about provocation, California law favors the victims. Let us handle the negotiations and the case, so you can focus on your recovery.
How much does it cost to have a lawyer defend you?
At Highway Law Group , we understand that an injury can bring financial worries. That's why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won't have to pay anything upfront. Our only payment is if we win your case, so you can focus on your recovery without anxiety.
When should I contact a personal injury attorney after an accident?
If you've suffered an injury due to someone else's negligence, it's crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you receive legal advice, the greater your chances of obtaining fair compensation.
After an accident, it can be difficult to assess the full impact of your injuries and the associated costs. An experienced attorney will help you gather key evidence, such as medical reports, witness statements, and police records, ensuring your case is well-founded. Additionally, there are legal deadlines for filing a lawsuit in California. Generally, you have two years from the date of injury to file your case, but certain circumstances may reduce this time. Don't wait too long to seek legal help.
How do I know if I have a valid personal injury case?
For a personal injury case to be valid, it is necessary to prove that another party acted negligently and that this negligence directly caused your injury. In legal terms, this involves proving three key elements:
- Duty of care: The responsible party had a duty to act with caution.
- Breach of duty: He failed to fulfill his obligation, whether by action or omission.
- Direct Damage: Negligence caused your injuries and economic losses.
Examples of negligence include distracted drivers, business owners who fail to maintain safe premises, or employers who fail to comply with safety regulations. If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies, an attorney can evaluate your case and provide guidance.
What type of compensation can I receive for my personal injury case?
Compensation in a personal injury case varies depending on the severity of the injury and the circumstances of the accident. Generally, it may include:
- Medical expenses: Hospitalization costs, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost income: Lost wages due to inability to work.
- Emotional damage: Stress, anxiety and psychological trauma resulting from the accident.
- Punitive damages: In cases of extreme negligence, the court may award additional compensation to punish the responsible party.
An attorney will calculate the true value of your case and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
What should I do if the insurer offers me a quick settlement?
It's common for insurance companies to try to settle cases quickly by offering low settlements. While it may seem like a quick fix, accepting without consulting an attorney could result in you receiving less than you deserve.
Before accepting any offer, consider:
- If the amount covers your medical expenses and possible future treatments.
- If you have properly calculated loss of income and other damages.
- If you know the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your quality of life,
a personal injury attorney will review the offer and negotiate a settlement that reflects your true damages.
What if I can't afford a personal injury lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys, including Ashley Aframian, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees and are only paid if your case is won.
Legal costs are deducted from the compensation obtained, ensuring that anyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access legal representation. This model allows you to focus on your recovery without the financial pressure of paying upfront fees.
If you have questions about the costs of your case, schedule a free consultation to learn about your options.