Losing a loved one is never easy. When that loss is due to the negligence of another person or entity, the pain can be compounded by feelings of anger and injustice. If you’ve lost a loved one due to wrongful death in Downey, California, Crown Law Group, PC, is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our Downey wrongful death attorneys understand the immense emotional and financial toll wrongful death takes on families. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to help you through this difficult time.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California
In California, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed when the negligence or wrongful act of another causes a person’s death. Wrongful death claims differ from regular personal injury claims because they are brought on behalf of the deceased’s surviving family members.
Under California law, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by the following parties:
- The surviving spouse of the deceased
- Domestic partner of the deceased
- Children of the deceased
- Dependent grandchildren of the deceased
- Any person who would be entitled to inherit the deceased’s estate if they had died intestate (without a will)
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Downey
Wrongful death can occur in a variety of situations. Some of the most common causes in Downey include:
- Car Accidents: Car accidents are a leading cause of wrongful death in California. Negligent driving, speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, and defective vehicles can all lead to fatal car crashes.
- Truck Accidents: Large trucks pose a significant risk to passenger vehicles due to their size and weight. Truck accidents involving driver negligence, overloaded trucks, or poorly maintained vehicles can result in wrongful death.
- Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable on the road. Wrongful death motorcycle accidents can be caused by car drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way, unsafe lane changes, or intoxicated drivers.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrians have very little protection in motor vehicle accidents. Wrongful death pedestrian accidents can be caused by reckless drivers, distracted drivers, or drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Medical Malpractice: When a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional breaches their standard of care and their negligence leads to a patient’s death, it can be considered medical malpractice. Wrongful death claims can be brought in cases of surgical errors, medication errors, misdiagnosis, or failure to diagnose.
- Nursing Home Neglect: Nursing homes are legally obligated to provide residents with a safe and healthy living environment. Neglect, abuse, or inadequate medical care in a nursing home can lead to a resident’s death, and a wrongful death lawsuit may be appropriate.
Damages Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
A wrongful death lawsuit can help you recover compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes any medical bills incurred by your loved one before their death and funeral and burial expenses.
- Lost Wages: If your loved one was the primary wage earner in the household, you can recover compensation for the loss of their income.
- Loss of Companionship and Guidance: This includes the loss of love, affection, companionship, moral support, and guidance your loved one provided.
- Loss of Household Services: This covers the value of the services your loved one provided around the house, such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare.
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party for their egregious conduct.
Contact a Downey Wrongful Death Attorney Today
If you have lost a loved one due to wrongful death in Downey, California, contact Crown Law Group, PC today for a free consultation. We understand the immense pain you are going through, and we are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve. Call us at 310-734-0504 to schedule a free consultation. We are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to help you through this difficult time.
