Rose on a casket

Wrongful death in California pertains to legal actions brought forth when someone’s negligence or intentional acts lead to the death of another. These claims are distinct from other personal injuries, as they focus on the loss and damages suffered by the deceased’s loved ones. The intricacies of this law dictate who can file a claim, the types of compensation available, and the time frame for seeking justice.

What Constitutes Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death arises when a person’s death is directly attributed to the negligent, reckless, or deliberate actions of another individual or entity. These situations differentiate wrongful death from other fatalities that might occur naturally or without direct fault. Common scenarios include fatalities stemming from car accidents due to another’s negligence, medical malpractice where a healthcare provider’s error leads to a patient’s death or even intentional acts like an assault that culminates in a person’s demise.

It’s important to recognize that not every death resulting from another’s actions constitutes a claim. For death to qualify as “wrongful,” there must be a clear breach of a duty of care that directly leads to the fatal outcome. This means that there should be an established responsibility or obligation that the at-fault party failed to uphold, directly causing the death. As a result, determining the presence of this breached duty becomes central in asserting and proving wrongful death.

Who Can File a Claim?

In California, the right to file a wrongful death claim is primarily limited to the closest relatives of the deceased. This often includes the surviving spouse or domestic partner, and the deceased’s children. If none of these immediate family members exist or are available to file the claim, the right can extend to others who would inherit from the decedent if they died without a will or those who were financially dependent on the deceased, such as the deceased’s parents or stepchildren.

Damages Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Suit

In a wrongful death lawsuit, the damages recovered primarily seek to compensate for the losses and harm sustained by the deceased’s family members as a direct result of their loved one’s untimely death. Economic damages may form a significant portion of the compensation. These quantifiable damages can include lost wages that the deceased would have earned in their lifetime, medical expenses related to the deceased’s final illness or injury, and the costs associated with funeral and burial services.

Non-economic damages, although harder to quantify, are even more significant in a wrongful death claim. They compensate for the loss of love, companionship, comfort, care, assistance, protection, and moral support. In cases involving a deceased parent, the loss of guidance and training might also be considered. 

How to Prove Wrongful Death in California

To establish a wrongful death claim in California, several key elements must be proven. Here are the primary components required to validate such a claim:

  • Duty of Care: Firstly, it must be demonstrated that the defendant owed a duty of care to the deceased. This means there was an established responsibility to act (or not act) in a specific manner to ensure the safety of the deceased.
  • Breach of Duty: Once a duty of care is established, it’s essential to prove that the defendant breached that duty. This means the defendant acted negligently, recklessly, or intentionally in a manner contrary to that responsibility.
  • Causation: Even if a breach of duty is evident, it’s crucial to link that breach directly to the death in question. In essence, it needs to be shown that the death wouldn’t have occurred if not for the defendant’s negligent actions.
  • Damages: Lastly, there must be tangible damages resulting from the death. This doesn’t only refer to financial losses but also encompasses non-economic damages like the loss of love faced by the deceased’s family members.

Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In California, there is a strict time frame, known as the statute of limitations, within which a wrongful death claim must be filed. Generally, claimants have a specified timeframe from the date of their loved one’s death to initiate a lawsuit, unless the defendant is a separate entity, which requires a claim to be filed within 6 months. Failing to file within this period typically results in the loss of the right to pursue compensation, regardless of the claim’s merit. It’s essential to be aware of and adhere to this time frame to ensure legal rights are preserved.

The Role of a Wrongful Death Attorney in Los Angeles

A wrongful death attorney plays a crucial role in representing and guiding the grieving family through the complex legal process. They possess the expertise to gather essential evidence, build a strong case, and ensure all legal procedures are correctly followed. Furthermore, these attorneys can adeptly negotiate with insurance companies and other parties to secure fair compensation for their clients. Their involvement often proves invaluable in navigating the challenges of the legal system while the family focuses on healing.

Ardalan & Associates Can Help with Your Lawsuit

Losing a loved one is a heart-wrenching experience, and while no compensation can truly replace their presence, it’s crucial to seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable. Our dedicated team at Ardalan & Associates is here to support and guide you. If you believe you have a wrongful death case, don’t hesitate to contact us and ensure your rights are protected.

Ardalan & Associates, PLC is a personal injury law firm based in Thousand Oaks, serving all of Southern California including Los Angeles, Ventura, Kern, and Orange Counties. We are committed to helping our clients involved in wrongful death accidents seek justice and navigate their legal journey.