El Segundo Wrongful Death Attorney
Losing someone precious to you is never easy. The grief becomes doubly painful when the loss is caused by someone else’s negligence or ill intent.
No one can undo the past or give you back the person you’ve lost, but there may be a way to hold the liable party responsible. The first step is to talk to one of our personal injury lawyers. He or she can give you the counsel you need in order to understand your options.
What is wrongful death?
In simple terms, wrongful death is a fatality caused by negligent, irresponsible, or malicious actions. Here are some common real-life examples:
- Medical malpractice: Grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit may exist if a healthcare provider’s negligence or incompetence was involved.
- Workplace conditions: Every employer must provide a safe environment for employees and contractors. An owner or manager can face legal consequences for ignoring this obligation.
- Vehicle accidents: Drunk, distracted, or reckless drivers can be held liable for wrongful death in the event of fatal car accidents due to negligent actions on the road.
- Deliberate actions: Wrongful death standards often apply to cases of murder or manslaughter. The court may order the guilty party to compensate the victim’s friends, family members, or associates.
- Product defects: Companies must meet reasonable safety standards for the items they manufacture. The law holds them accountable when they fail to do so. Sometimes the reseller of a defective item may also face penalties.
Calling the liable party to account
Those who cause a wrongful death may be liable for any or all of the following:
- Medical bills: These include the costs of caring for the victim prior to his or her passing.
- Loss of income or assets: This applies when the decedent’s wages or salary helped to support a spouse, children, or other persons.
- Emotional or physical suffering: The court may order the guilty party to provide financial compensation for personal or psychological suffering.
- Costs of a funeral or memorial service: Those responsible for wrongful death may have to cover the decedent’s final expenses.
Only a qualified wrongful death lawyer can offer specific legal advice for your case. Contact our El Segundo office right away if you believe you’re entitled to compensation. We can help you to get your life back on track.
Dealing with your loss
Here are some tips for dealing with the challenges you face at this difficult time:
- Seek guidance before making major decisions: Having a trusted person’s advice is always crucial when you’re struggling with grief or anger.
- Remember that feeling better is a journey, not a destination: You may go through a wide array of emotions, from calm acceptance to crushing sorrow. You may even feel guilt or rage. That’s okay; it’s all part of the normal grieving process.
- Know when to get help: No one expects you to be cheerful and upbeat right now. But some symptoms of grief are a warning sign, especially if you feel the urge to harm yourself or others.
Losing a friend or loved one can be shattering. But a Los Angeles personal injury attorney at Ellis Law can help you to put the pieces back together. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.