Legal support from an attorney at Maison Law can ensure that you and your family have compassionate assistance after a fatal Merced accident. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face the aftermath of a fatal accident and the losses that you have suffered. You should never have to worry about how you will afford to pay the many bills that keep piling up as you are grieving, which is why we are here for you. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a no-obligation case consultation.
Should You Hire a Merced Wrongful Death Lawyer?
In cases involving minor injuries, it is not likely that an individual will need the help of an attorney to move forward with a claim. However, wrongful death cases are much more severe and involve complex laws that many people are not familiar with.
When the loss of a loved one has happened due to an accident, families may be feeling lost and confused with their next steps. Even though you are going through one of the most difficult experiences of your life, the insurance company might not be on your side or have your best interests in mind. In some cases, they may even go as far as to attempt to pin the blame on the deceased victim.
At Maison Law, we want you to be treated fairly in your claim. We will help you fight back against the insurance company and hold parties accountable for the harm that they have caused your loved one. Having legal representation can ensure that all deadlines are met and all communication is handled in a timely fashion.
What Type of Fatal Accidents Take Place in Merced?
There are many types of accidents that lead to serious injuries in Merced each year. Unfortunately, a large number of people lose their lives in these accidents every year as well. These accidents typically happen due to the negligence of another individual or entity. Some of the most common types of accidents that lead to fatalities in Merced include:
- Traffic Accidents: Merced roads can be incredibly busy, with thousands of people bustling from one place to the next on major roads. When a reckless driver is in control of a passenger vehicle, a box truck, a semi-truck, or any other type of vehicle, a collision can occur in the blink of an eye.
- Motorcycle, Pedestrian, and Bicycle Accidents: Anybody on a motorcycle, bicycle, or walking by foot can become involved in a fatal accident. These victims have no protection from harm, which means that a life could be lost within seconds.
- Workplace Accidents: There are many types of workplace accidents that can lead to fatalities, including those in farming and construction. These accidents commonly occur when employers allow unsafe conditions within the workplace.
- Premises Liability Accidents: Property owners are supposed to ensure the safety of everybody who is permitted on that property. If a tragic loss of life occurs, they could be held accountable.
- Product Liability Cases: We expect to bring products into Merced homes that will not cause us harm. If a product leads to a sudden fatality, the manufacturer or store that sold the product could be responsible for the loss of your loved one.
- City Government Accidents: Government entities could be responsible for the loss of a loved one if an accident takes place on public transportation, public building grounds, or anywhere else the government is in charge.
- Dog Bites: California follows strict liability when it comes to dog bite accidents. This means that, if a dog bite leads to the loss of life, the owner of the dog could be held accountable for damages.
Who is Permitted to File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In California, there are various parties who could file a successful wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one. Some of these parties include the following:
- A spouse/domestic partner of the deceased
- Children of the deceased
- Parents of the deceased
- A personal representative of the estate
One person moves forward with one of these claims on behalf of the rest of the family. In California, you have two years to file a wrongful death claim against a liable party so that you can receive damages. It is important that you act quickly to retain your rights and ensure that your family is treated fairly in your claim.
What Damages Are Available in a Merced Wrongful Death Claim?
After an unexpected loss of a loved one, families may be facing immense bills even though they should be able to focus on grieving. Families are able to demand help for the financial losses they have suffered due to losing a loved one. Some of the damages that you may be able to receive in a lawsuit include the following:
- Reimbursement for funeral and burial costs
- Coverage for ambulance services, hospital fees, and any other medical bills your loved one incurred before their passing
- Financial support to a family when they are left without income
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of consortium or companionship
- Punitive damages in some cases
Though no amount of money can bring back a loved one, it can help a family feel whole again financially. It is crucial that families seek legal help soon after a fatal accident so that they can get started on working toward a successful outcome.
Contact a Merced Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
After suffering the enormous loss of a loved one, it is natural to feel devastated and confused. At Maison Law, our Merced wrongful death lawyers will compassionately assist you as you navigate the California legal system. We do not want you to deal with the burden of taking on the insurance company or dealing with the legalities of your claim alone. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a no-obligation and free consultation.
