Santa Ana Wrongful Death Lawyer

A wrongful death claim is a devastating situation that manifests when the life of a loved one is cut short due to the negligent actions of another party. The grievous circumstance can leave families grappling with emotional, financial, and legal ramifications. In these trying moments, the assistance of a compassionate and dedicated Santa Ana wrongful death lawyer is paramount.

We, Nordean Law, are a renowned personal injury law firm in California. Our wrongful death lawyers in Santa Ana provide the legal expertise and emotional support necessary to navigate the complexities of wrongful death. They fight tirelessly to secure your rights and help you receive your deserved compensation.

Contact our office online or call 888-527-1267 to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Santa Ana wrongful death lawyer. Our law firm handles wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, which means we don’t get compensated if you don’t get compensated.

Wrongful Death Laws in Santa Ana, CA

Wrongful death laws in Santa Ana, California, are comprehensive statutes governing how wrongful death claims are filed and managed. Understanding California's wrongful death laws helps you build a strong case.

• Statute of limitations: The statute to file a wrongful death claim is two years from the accident date. It is essential to file your lawsuit within this time frame, or you may lose your right to seek compensation.
  
  
• Who can file a claim: Only certain family members, including the deceased person’s spouse, domestic partner, children, and other relatives, can file a wrongful death claim.
  
  
• Types of damages: Damages in a wrongful death case can include compensation for funeral expenses, medical expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship.
  
  
• Burden of proof: In a wrongful death case, the burden of proof is on the plaintiff to show that the defendant was negligent and that this negligence caused the death of their loved one.

Statute of Limitations of Wrongful Death in California

In California, the statute of limitation of wrongful death is two years from the date of the person’s death. The court may dismiss any claims filed after this period, barring certain exceptional circumstances.

Statistics on Wrongful Death in Santa Ana

Santa Ana, like many parts of California, sees its share of accidents leading to tragic fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Orange County reported 136 fatal accidents in 2021. Below are listed more insights into wrongful deaths in California.

• Homicide rate: According to US News, from 2019 to 2020, the homicide rate in California increased by 27 percent.
  
  
• Unintentional injuries: Unintentional injuries are the 5th leading cause of death in San Francisco, California.
  
  
• Auto accidents: California sees more than 4,000 fatalities from auto accidents every year. In 2022, there were 4,205 total fatalities due to auto accidents in California, of which 262 involved large trucks and 18-wheelers.
  
  
• Workplace fatalities: More than 300 fatalities occur at the person’s place of work in California.
  
  
• Machinery-related fatalities: About 100 Californians were killed due to coming into contact with machinery.

Why You Need a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Santa Ana?

The grief and distress following the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming, making the prospect of legal proceedings even more daunting. However, an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Santa Ana can be your steadfast ally in these challenging times. They bring an intimate understanding of the local legal landscape and carry the experience of having represented and won similar cases.

A Santa Ana wrongful death attorney guides you through each step of the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and helping to maximize the compensation you are entitled to.

Common Types of Wrongful Death

Wrongful deaths can tragically occur in numerous contexts. Each of these scenarios is unique and presents its complexities. Although the techniques vary, the result is always tragic. Below are listed some common types of wrongful deaths.

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Fatalities can occur when drivers flout the road rules or when road conditions or vehicle malfunctions cause accidents. The surviving families are often left seeking justice and compensation for their loss.
  
  
• Workplace Accidents: In environments where adequate safety measures aren’t in place or equipment malfunctions, wrongful deaths can occur. From construction sites to office spaces, no work environment is immune.
  
  
• Medical Malpractice: Healthcare professionals must provide a standard level of care. A wrongful death lawsuit may follow when they fail this duty and a patient dies.
  
  
• Product Liability: When consumers use products, they expect them to be safe.

However, defects can lead to severe accidents and fatalities, with the manufacturer potentially held liable for wrongful death.

Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death

While wrongful death case is unique, some common causes recur. Some common causes are listed below.

• Road Traffic Accidents: These include accidents involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, or pedestrians. These incidents often result in fatalities due to negligent driving, road conditions, or vehicle malfunctions.
  
  
• Slip and Fall Accidents: These can occur in various settings - from icy sidewalks to wet supermarket floors. If negligence is proven, you can pursue a wrongful death claim.
  
  
• Product Defects: Fatalities can occur when a product is defectively designed, manufactured, or lacks adequate warnings. The manufacturer, distributor, or retailer can be held responsible.
  
  
• Medical Malpractice: This encompasses various scenarios - from surgical errors and misdiagnosis to medication mistakes. A wrongful death claim may ensue if a patient dies due to negligence.
  
  
• Workplace Accidents: These involve not following safety protocols or not providing protective equipment, leading to fatal accidents.

Common Injuries Of Wrongful Death

Wrongful deaths can result from various injuries. They include:

• Head Trauma: This can occur in motor vehicle accidents or falls, leading to traumatic brain injuries or severe skull fractures, resulting in death.
  
  
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can lead to paralysis or death, especially in the neck or upper back.
  
  
• Internal Organ Damage: Such injuries can occur due to blunt force trauma in accidents or surgical errors. They can lead to fatal complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
  
  
• Medical Mistakes: In medical malpractice cases, fatalities can stem from various errors - misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, or incorrect medication dosages.

Each case is unique and requires careful analysis. An experienced Santa Ana Wrongful death lawyer can establish a successful wrongful death claim and help you evaluate your rightful compensation.

What To Do After a Wrongful Death in Santa Ana, CA?

Losing a loved one due to wrongful death can leave you in shock, grief, and confusion. However, taking specific steps to protect your legal rights is crucial.

• Report the incident: Contact local authorities and report the incident. Ensure an official report detailing the circumstances surrounding the death.
  
  
• Document everything: Keep records of everything related to the incident and death. They can include medical records, accident reports, correspondence with insurance companies, and any costs incurred.
  
  
• Seek legal advice: Contact a competent wrongful death attorney in Santa Ana immediately. They can advise on the next steps and begin gathering the necessary evidence for your case.
  
  
• Cooperate with your attorney: Your attorney will guide you through the legal process. Providing all the necessary information and cooperating fully with their requests is essential.

What to Expect During a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Initiating a wrongful death lawsuit can be an overwhelming process. Here's what you can expect from a Santa Ana wrongful death lawyer.

• Investigation: Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the incident that led to the death of your loved one.
  
  
• Filing a lawsuit: If your attorney concludes a valid claim, they will file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
  
  
• Discovery: Both sides will exchange information and evidence during discovery.
  
  
• Negotiations: Your attorney will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement with the responsible party. If unsuccessful, the case will proceed to trial.
  
  
• Trial: Both sides will present their case in court, and the judge or jury will decide.

How Much Is My Wrongful Death Claim Worth?

The worth of a wrongful death claim varies depending on several factors, including the circumstances of the death, the deceased’s earnings, medical and funeral expenses, and the degree of emotional distress the surviving family suffered. However, according to Lawsuit Information Center, California's average wrongful death settlement is $2,212,936. It is essential to discuss your case with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Santa Ana to understand the potential value of your claim.

Contact Santa Ana Wrongful Death Attorney Today For A Free Case Evaluation

Losing a loved one in a wrongful death incident can be devastating. Nordean Law understands the immense pain and financial burden such loss can impose on a family. We are committed to providing compassionate legal representation. Our Santa Ana wrongful death attorneys fight tirelessly to help you get justice and a fair settlement.

Conclusion

A wrongful death incident is a tragic event that leaves surviving family members with emotional pain and financial uncertainty. As daunting as it may seem to navigate a legal process during such a difficult time, it is essential to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek the compensation you deserve. A Santa Ana wrongful death lawyer can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome in your case.

Do not hesitate and contact us for a free consultation for your wrongful death claim.