Receiving a call that a loved one has passed away unexpectedly is difficult to cope with. The circumstances are even more traumatic if you learn that their death may have been the result of another person’s conduct. Your first thought may not be to call a lawyer. However, if another person’s careless, reckless, or intentional misconduct may be to blame, we recommend contacting our Oceanside wrongful death lawyers to discuss the best next steps. At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced wrongful death attorneys have decades of experience helping families learn more about the circumstances surrounding their relative’s preventable deaths. We perform independent and in-depth investigations to ensure we can provide an accurate analysis of your family’s rights and legal options, including filing a California wrongful death lawsuit. To talk with us during a free consultation, you can call 1-800-GO-HARRIS or submit your information through our online form.

Our Oceanside Wrongful Death Lawyers Handle All Types of Claims

Through the decades, we have gained experience in wrongful death claims arising from all types of accidents. This enables us to be prepared to take on any case, no matter how rare or complex the circumstances. Do not hesitate to contact Harris Personal Injury Lawyers following a fatal:

• Auto Accidents
• Bike Accidents
• Bus Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Uber & Lyft Accidents
• Turo Accidents
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Airplane Accidents
• Boat Accidents
• Train Accidents
• Dangerous Property Accidents
• Slip and Falls
• Dog Bite and Animal Attacks
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Severe Burns
• Traumatic Brain Injuries

How a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Oceanside Can Help

Whether your loved one passed away after falling from a height, being struck by a vehicle, or in another type of transportation accident, we are here to help. We will begin by meeting with you at a free initial consultation and listening to your story. If it appears there is more to your loved one’s death than a faultless accident, and you choose to hire us, we will move forward with an investigation. We will gather as much evidence as we can, including:

• Any police or accident reports
• Photos of the accident or environment in question
• Nearby surveillance or traffic video
• Eye witness accounts
• Business records
• Property maintenance records
• Electronic data
• Medical records
• Insurance policies
• Expert opinions

Through a careful analysis of the available evidence, we will identify the underlying cause of the fatal accident and the liable party. During our initial investigation, we may recommend filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Through the discovery phase of litigation, we can access additional information. This evidence may be used to strengthen your case or identify and address weaknesses. Once we have established your claim, we will pursue wrongful death compensation. In many cases, we will begin insurance settlement negotiations. However, our Oceanside wrongful death attorneys also believe in always being trial-ready. We are not afraid to fight for your family’s right to compensation before a judge or jury, and we have a track record of success in personal injury and wrongful death claims. We have helped more than 5,000 clients obtain more than $300 million in settlements and court rulings.

California Wrongful Death Law

If you believe someone else is at fault for your relative’s death, it is important to talk with an Oceanside attorney with experience handling wrongful death claims. California law determines when wrongful death claims arise, who may file this type of suit, and who may receive compensation through a wrongful death settlement or verdict. Under the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60, only certain people can file a wrongful death claim. To file a wrongful death lawsuit, you must be a:

• A surviving spouse, domestic partner, or putative spouse;
• Surviving child or putative child;
• A minor who was dependent on the decedent for at least half of your support and who lived with the decedent for at least the past 180 days;
• An heir who would be entitled to property if the decedent passed away without a will; or
• A personal representative of the decedent’s estate.

These individuals also may receive a portion of a wrongful death court ruling or settlement, which can include compensation for:

• Medical expenses incurred between the date of the accident and death;
• Funeral and burial expenses;
• Loss of decedent’s financial support;
• Loss of value of decedent’s household services;
• Loss of decedent’s companionship, society, and love.

Call us Soon After Your Loved One’s Unexpected and Preventable Death

At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, it is important to use that you have accurate legal information as soon as possible after an accident that results in injuries or fatalities. Only by having all of the facts can you determine whether you should pursue wrongful death compensation. Also, when you may have a legal claim, it is important to talk with a lawyer before you speak with an insurer. We can protect you from an insurer pushing you to accept an inequitable settlement. To learn more, contact us online or call 1-800-GO-HARRIS.