Elk Grove Wrongful Death Lawyer

Understanding Comparative Negligence in California

California’s legal framework uses a concept known as comparative negligence. It’s pivotal for anyone delving into catastrophic injury cases in the state. Here’s what you should know.

Your Degree of Fault Is Factored In

Imagine a scenario where an accident leads to damages totaling $100,000. If it’s determined you were 20% to blame, you would only be eligible to claim 80% of those damages, amounting to $80,000.

Pure Comparative Negligence

In many states, if you’re over 50% responsible, you can’t claim any damages. But not in California. Here, even if you bear 99% of the blame for an accident, you still have the right to seek the 1% of damages you weren’t responsible for.

For instance, in a case with $100,000 in damages where you’re 80% at fault, California allows you to claim the remaining $20,000.

Other Nuances of California Law

Diving into specifics, California’s Civil Code Division 3, Part 3, Section 1714 offers more insights: It clarifies that individuals are held accountable for injuries resulting from their failure to act with ordinary care. The only exception is when the person suffering the injury also exhibited a lack of care, contributing to their harm.

Another noteworthy point is the stance on alcohol-related injuries. Simply providing alcoholic beverages isn’t seen as the direct cause of injuries due to intoxication. The blame, instead, lies with the act of consumption.

Yet, there’s a caveat: Adults intentionally giving alcohol to those under 21 at their own residences can be held liable, considering the provision of alcohol as the immediate cause of subsequent injuries or fatalities.

Why Hire Triumph Law?

Knowledge of local laws and regulations is essential when pursuing a wrongful death case. Our attorneys at Triumph Law understand the unique challenges related to wrongful death cases here.

• We have expertise in local laws.
• We understand the specific challenges in Elk Grove.
• We provide benefits from consultation to compensation.

Hiring an attorney specific to Elk Grove is not just about legal knowledge; it’s about understanding the community, the people, and what makes this area unique. Our attorneys are part of this community, and we’re here to help.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in California

Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a wrongful death claim. California law sets a specific time limit for pursuing such a claim, known as the statute of limitations. It is generally two years for cases such as these.

The clock usually starts ticking from the date of death, and in most cases, the family has two years to file a claim. However, there might be exceptions, and an Elk Grove wrongful death attorney can help you understand how they apply to your specific case.

If the deadline passes without filing, the court can refuse to hear the case, and the opportunity for compensation may be lost.

Damages in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In a wrongful death lawsuit, the compensation available to the surviving family members is referred to as “damages.” These damages are meant to ease the financial and emotional burdens following the loss of a loved one.

Here’s a more in-depth look at the different types of damages that might be included:

Economic Damages

Economic damages break down into three main categories: medical, funeral and burial, and loss of income.

• Medical Expenses: This includes reimbursement for any medical costs incurred in treating the deceased’s final injuries or illness. It covers expenses like hospital bills, medication, surgeries, and other treatments.
• Funeral and Burial Costs: Funeral and burial expenses can be significant. Economic damages in a wrongful death suit may include compensation for the costs related to the funeral, burial, or cremation of the deceased.
• Loss of Income: If the deceased was a primary earner for the family, the loss of their income can have a devastating financial impact. Economic damages can provide compensation for both past and future lost wages and benefits.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are also possible, depending on the circumstances of your case.

• Loss of Companionship: The emotional toll of losing a loved one is immeasurable. Non-economic damages may provide compensation for the loss of love, companionship, comfort, care, assistance, protection, affection, society, and moral support that the deceased would have provided.
• Loss of Consortium: For surviving spouses, the loss of consortium covers the loss of intimate relations and the emotional support and love that accompany a marital relationship.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the wrongful death occurred due to particularly egregious or malicious conduct. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Contact an Elk Grove Wrongful Death Attorney Today

Losing a loved one is never easy, and when that loss is due to someone else’s negligence, the need for justice is strong.

Our law firm is committed to helping families in Elk Grove navigate this painful journey. If you believe your loved one’s death was due to negligence, don’t delay.

Triumph Law stands ready to guide you through the legal maze, fight for your rights, and help you find the justice and compensation you deserve.