Huntington Beach Wrongful Death Lawyer

Huntington Beach Wrongful Death Attorney

Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to seek justice for the loss of a loved one caused by another party’s negligence. While every state enforces specific wrongful death laws, you can trust the Huntington Beach wrongful death lawyers at Kenneth M. Sigelman & Associates to guide you through California’s unique legal proceedings.

Our team understands that there is no amount of compensation that can adequately replace a loved one. However, a wrongful death claim can at least provide financial relief for expenses such as remaining medical bills, lost wages, funeral costs, and other debts.

Common Wrongful Death Accidents in Huntington Beach

A wrongful death is defined as any fatality caused by another party’s negligence. If you believe someone is responsible for your loved one’s death, you may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. The Huntington Beach wrongful death attorneys at Kenneth M. Sigelman & Associates can help you explore the right course of action.

Some common types of wrongful death cases include:

• Car Accidents: If a driver was acting negligently, like driving under the influence or showing reckless behavior, and caused your loved one’s death, you can pursue a wrongful death claim in Huntington Beach.
• Workplace Accident: If your loved one died on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation survivor benefits. You can file a wrongful death claim if another party is found to be at fault. To better understand your legal options after losing your loved one to a workplace accident in Huntington Beach, make sure you consult a lawyer.
• Violent Crime: Violent crime wrongful deaths can include violent offenses that cause the death of another individual, such as an armed robbery.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: If a hazardous condition leads to a fatal slip and fall, the property owner may be liable for wrongful death. However, this does not extend to trespassers.
• Trucking Accidents: The size and weight of commercial vehicles can come with catastrophic accidents. Multiple parties, including the driver and their employer, may share in the liability for your loved one’s death.
• Motorcycle Accidents and Bicycle Accidents: If another driver’s negligence results in the death of a loved one, you can file a wrongful death claim with the help of a skilled lawyer.
• Pedestrian Accidents: Drivers must take extra care to avoid harming pedestrians. If the driver’s negligence leads to a pedestrian’s death in Huntington Beach, the victim’s family may file a claim against the driver.
• Medical Malpractice: If negligence by a Huntington Beach healthcare provider caused your loved one’s death, you can pursue a wrongful death claim.
• Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse: Elder abuse and neglect in nursing homes can lead to fatalities. A wrongful death claim can hold the facility and employees accountable for their harmful behavior.
• Product Liability: Defective or dangerous products can cause fatalities. You can file a wrongful death claim under product liability law by proving the product was defective and unsafe.

Compensation Available in a Huntington Beach Wrongful Death Claim

A wrongful death claim in Huntington Beach can provide compensation to surviving family members for their loss. This can include the economic impact of the deceased’s accident and noneconomic losses, such as the loss of companionship. Common types of compensation awarded in a successful California wrongful death claim include:

• Funeral Expenses: Families can seek reimbursement for reasonable funeral and burial costs.
• Medical Bills: If your loved one received medical care before passing, you can pursue compensation for expenses like hospital stays, surgeries, or hospice care.
• Loss of Wages: If your loved one was unable to work before their death, you can seek compensation for the income they would have earned during that period.
• Loss of Companionship: The surviving spouses, partners, or close relatives can seek compensation for the loss of emotional support, care, and guidance that were provided by their lost loved one. You can also file a loss of consortium, which could pay for lost affection and enjoyment from the relationship.
• Loss of Retirement/Pension Benefits: Families can seek compensation for the loss of retirement funds or other financial benefits the deceased would have earned.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of negligence or criminal behavior, the court may award punitive damages to penalize the defendant. However, this may depend on the defendant’s financial situation and the severity of their actions.

FAQs

How Much Is a Wrongful Death Claim Worth in California?

The amount awarded in a wrongful death settlement in California depends on many factors, including the extent of negligence, the insurance policies in place, and the deceased’s income. The courts will review a wide array of details, including the medical and funeral expenses incurred, as well as the loss of the deceased’s income. An experienced Huntington Beach wrongful death lawyer from our firm can help you negotiate for fair compensation.

What Are the Chances of Winning a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Because every case is unique, the chance of winning a wrongful death claim in California will depend on your claim’s circumstances. However, working with a skilled Huntington Beach wrongful death lawyer can provide you with crucial guidance as you navigate complicated legal proceedings and also give you a stronger chance of filing a successful claim. An adept attorney can also fight for just compensation and an optimal outcome to your case.

What Evidence Should Be Admitted in a Wrongful Death Suit?

The evidence that should be admitted in a wrongful death claim includes any medical records for the deceased, photographic evidence, police reports, and financial documentation detailing all losses, including medical costs and funeral expenses. Gather witness statements and expert testimonies that support your claim of the defendant’s negligence and how it related to your loved one’s death.

How Do You Win a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

You win a wrongful death claim in California by presenting strong evidence that the liable party’s neglect or wrongful actions directly resulted in your loved one’s passing. To do this, you need sufficient evidence to prove your claim, including eyewitness accounts, medical records, and accident reports. An experienced wrongful death attorney is crucial in helping you build a compelling case to maximize your chance of success.

Contact a Huntington Beach Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

If you’ve lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence or misconduct, a Huntington Beach wrongful death lawyer can help you seek justice for your family. The experienced team at Kenneth M. Sigelman & Associates can guide you through the legal process, help you gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discuss what legal options you have during this difficult time.