Are you trying to recover from the loss of a loved one who died due to someone’s negligence in San Diego, CA? If someone you loved was killed by the careless acts of another person, you may be allowed to pursue financial compensation under California law. At Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers, we sympathize with and want to help you.
Our experienced San Diego wrongful death attorneys can walk alongside your family to help you get the justice you deserve. We have over 80 years of combined legal experience helping accident victims recover over $100 million in losses in all types of personal injury claims.
Contact us at (858) 551-2090 or visit our San Diego, CA, personal injury law firm to schedule a free consultation.
Why Choose Pines Salomon To Help Me With My Wrongful Death Claim in San Diego?
Losing a loved one unexpectedly in San Diego, California, can be a horrific experience. Pursuing legal action may not be your top priority during this difficult time. While no amount of money can bring back your loved one, obtaining compensation can ease the financial burden. It can also provide a sense of justice when someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing caused the fatal accident.
By hiring Pines Salomon, you are sending a clear message that you will not accept less than fair compensation. We have decades of combined legal experience and have consistently earned favorable case results for families of wrongful death victims. Members of our legal team have been recognized by Martindale-Hubbell, America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Lawyers, and Super Lawyers.
Call us today to schedule your free, no-risk consultation with a San Diego personal injury attorney.
What Is a Wrongful Death Case?
Under California law, wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to the wrongful act or negligence of another. If the victim had been entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit had they survived, their family can pursue a wrongful death claim. While these cases are handled in civil court, criminal charges may also be involved.
In California, a wrongful death lawsuit is typically filed by the personal representative of the victim’s estate. Eligible survivors who may act as a personal representative in a wrongful death claim include:
- A surviving spouse or domestic partner
- Children
- Parents or legal guardians
- Financially dependent stepchildren or other relatives
- The deceased person’s personal representative
If you are unsure whether you have a valid wrongful death claim, contact our San Diego wrongful death attorneys for a free evaluation. We will help you understand your legal rights and options. If you decide to move forward with a claim, we are equipped to represent you from day one.
How Much Is My Wrongful Death Claim Worth?
There are many factors that can influence the value of your case, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The age and health of the deceased
- Insurance policy limits
- Your relationship to your loved one
- The medical expenses related to your loved one’s final illness or injury
We’ll look at all the relevant factors when determining the value of your case.
What Kind of Damages Are Available in a Wrongful Death Accident Claim?
If you decide to bring a lawsuit for wrongful death, you may seek economic and non-economic damages for:
- The financial support your loved one provided
- The deceased person’s age and earning potential
- Medical expenses and other costs incurred prior to death
- The impact of the loss on the surviving family
- The loss of consortium or companionship you experience
Hiring an experienced wrongful death attorney is critical to recovering the compensation you deserve. At Pines Salomon, we have a proven track record of success in these complex cases. We know you are dealing with a lot, so let us help relieve you of some stress by handling your case.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Wrongful Death Accident Lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means we only get paid if we win your case. There are no upfront legal fees or costs. Our fees will be deducted from your settlement or court award.
You shouldn’t have to drain your life savings to pursue justice for the loss of a loved one. We will help you get back on your feet as you mourn the loss of your loved one.
Can I Recover Compensation if the Victim Is Being Blamed For a Wrongful Death Accident in California?
California’s pure comparative negligence laws still allow you to recover compensation if your loved one was partially responsible for their fatal accident. Your total recovery will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to your loved one. As long as your loved one was not entirely at fault, your family can still seek damages.
At Pines Salomon, we won’t let insurers take advantage of your situation. Our experienced wrongful death lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation, work with accident reconstruction experts, and use advanced technology to uncover the truth.
What Causes Most Wrongful Death Accidents in San Diego, California?
We have extensive experience helping families recover after a loved one has tragically passed away. Our legal team is dedicated to helping you and your family navigate these difficult issues and obtain justice. We handle all types of wrongful death cases resulting from another party’s misconduct or negligence, including:
- Car accidents: Car accidents are a leading cause of wrongful deaths in San Diego. Distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving are common factors that lead to deadly collisions on California’s roadways.
- Motorcycle accidents: Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the roads. Fatalities often occur when other drivers fail to notice them or yield. Wrongful death cases involving motorcycles often result from the negligent actions of other drivers.
- Truck accidents: Large trucks, such as semis and tractor-trailers, pose a significant danger to other vehicles. Truck accidents can lead to fatalities, especially when caused by driver fatigue, speeding, or improper maintenance.
- Pedestrian accidents: San Diego is a bustling city, and pedestrians are at risk of being struck by negligent drivers. Crosswalk accidents and failure to yield can have fatal consequences for victims.
- Medical malpractice: Healthcare professionals are entrusted with the well-being of their patients. When they make medical errors, surgical mistakes, or misdiagnoses, they can lead to wrongful death. These failures may also have legal consequences for healthcare professionals.
We will work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties to account for wrongful death.
Proving Negligence in a Wrongful Death Case
To win a wrongful death case in California, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s negligence or misconduct directly caused the death. This involves showing that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused the death as a proximate result. For example, a driver who runs a red light and causes a fatal crash has likely breached their legal duty.
Gathering strong evidence—such as traffic camera footage, expert testimony, and accident reconstruction—is crucial to meet the burden of proof. A skilled lawyer can help build a compelling case for liability.
How Can a Wrongful Death Lawyer Help Me?
A wrongful death lawyer can do the following for you:
- Investigate and identify all responsible parties
- Work with top experts to assess the value of your case
- Compile solid evidence to support your claim
- Defend you against victim-blaming tactics from insurance companies
- Aggressively negotiate for a full and fair settlement
- Prepare your case for trial and fight for you in court, if necessary
Personal injury victims who hire an attorney often recover higher compensation than those who don’t.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Wrongful Death Accident in California?
The statute of limitations sets a strict deadline for how long you have to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In California, you generally have two years from the date of death to file a case. It is important not to wait too long after losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence. If you miss this deadline, you could forfeit your right to compensation.
At Pines Salomon, we understand how overwhelming it can be to focus on legal matters while grieving. Let us take care of all applicable deadlines in your case.
Contact Our San Diego Wrongful Death Accident Lawyers For a Free Consultation
If your family is facing the loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence in San Diego, contact Pines Salomon today. We offer compassionate, experienced legal representation. Our San Diego wrongful death lawyers are committed to helping you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our attorneys have 80 years of combined experience and have recovered more than $100 million in damages. Let us begin fighting for your rights.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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Visit Our Personal Injury Law Office in San Diego, CA
Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers
We proudly serve San Diego County and its surrounding areas:
835 Fifth Ave #302,
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (858) 551-2090
