San Mateo Wrongful Death Lawyer

One of the most heart-wrenching situations is when a loved one dies unexpectedly because of someone else’s reckless actions. Unfortunately, the grieving process may become all the more difficult when managing the expenses associated with this loss. You may be overwhelmed with your loved one’s final medical bills, final expenses, and funeral costs. Decedents who were primary providers may leave families wrestling with financial instability.

A compassionate injury attorney could help your family to pursue the compensation you need during this time. Though no amount of money can make up for the loss of a loved one, a fair settlement could help set your family up for a stable financial future. A San Mateo wrongful death lawyer at Solution Now Law Firm is available to help you do just that.

What is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Personal injury and wrongful death cases have similar requirements for building a compensation claim. Plaintiffs in both types of cases have the burden of proving another person’s negligence, which consists of four elements. Plaintiffs and their attorneys must prove the defendant had a duty to act as a reasonable person would in similar situations and breached this duty, causing an accident resulting in death.

Examples of circumstances that could lead to an actionable wrongful death claim include the following:

• Car accidents
• Truck crashes
• Motorcycle wrecks
• Bicycle collisions
• Pedestrian accidents

Regardless of the exact type of accident that led to a loved one’s death, a San Mateo wrongful death attorney could help surviving family members understand their rights and legal options.

Compensation in Wrongful Death Claims

Recoverable damages in a wrongful death claim could cover expenses the decedent incurred because of their accident prior to and including death. These damages typically include medical bills, property loss, and funeral expenses.

A financial award could also compensate surviving loved ones for the loss of financial and emotional support based on what the decedent would have contributed to the family in the future. A dedicated San Mateo lawyer could provide more clarity on the types of damages available in a wrongful death case.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Action

Under state law, immediate family members, beginning with the spouse, can file wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of the decedent. California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60 establishes who is eligible to pursue action over a decedent’s wrongful death in the following order:

• The decedent’s lawful and competent surviving spouse or domestic partner
• Surviving children, including biological, adopted, and stepchildren
• Minors living in the decedent’s home and dependent on the decedent for at least one-half of their financial support for at least six months
• The decedent’s parents, if they were financially dependent on the decedent
• Heirs defined by California intestate succession statutes

Family members can also name a personal representative for the decedent’s estate who can file an action on behalf of all interested parties. Experienced wrongful death lawyers understand how the court system works in San Mateo and could help a decedent’s family receive fair and just compensation.

Discuss Your Options With a San Mateo Wrongful Death Attorney

Losing a loved one is never easy. The grief process takes time, and it may seem overwhelming to add taking legal action to your family’s plate. Filing deadlines add to this pressure, and the defendant’s insurer is not in business to treat you favorably. Fortunately, you do not have to handle this time alone. The compassionate attorneys at Solution Now Law Firm are here for you.

If you lost a loved one because of someone’s negligence, a San Mateo wrongful death lawyer could explore options for compensating your family. Call today to schedule your free case consultation. Our team is ready to get to work for you.