According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), there have been at least four people who have died from fatal traffic accidents in greater Sacramento through the first five days of August.
Earlier this week, around 5:00 am Monday in Rio Linda, a pedestrian was struck and killed at the intersection of West Elkhorn and Marysville boulevards. The victim was a 27 year old female.
Last week, on Friday, a 62 year old man was struck in a hit and run accident on Arden Way. He passed due to the injuries the next day. There are no other details available to report.
Also on Friday, a 47 year old man was involved in a fatal collision on westbound Jackson Road near Florin Perkins Road.
A one vehicle crash killed a 19 year old Vallejo man on Thursday morning when his car veered off I-5 near the I-80 interchange in Natomas. The car struck a tree and the man died at the scene, the CHP reported.
The CHP’s Yuba-Sutter office also responded to an additional two fatal car accidents in the last week. On Sunday, a car burst into flames in a head-on collision.
Two people were killed in a high speed chase on eastbound Highway 20 when a stolen Honda crashed into a tractor trailer. Both drivers of the Honda died at the scene. The driver of the truck was unharmed.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to each of the families and friends of those who have passed in these events.
What is a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim arises when someone dies due to the wrongful act or negligence of another person. The claim may be brought by the survivors of the deceased and they may seek financial compensation for the loss. A wrongful death claim is separate from any criminal case and may be brought at the same time.
Who may file a wrongful death claim?
There are only certain people who may file the wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased person. This is governed by California law California Code of Civil Procedure section 337.60, et seq. The statute specifically states the following people may bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased:
• Surviving spouse
• Domestic partner
• Surviving children
• If there is no one in the line of descent, the claim may be brought by someone who would be entitled to their property by succession. This may include parents or siblings
If a person can show that they were financially dependent upon the deceased, a claim may also be brought by:
• “Putative” spouse and their children (meaning someone who entered into a good faith marriage believing it to be valid, but isn’t due to a legal flaw)
• Stepchildren
• Parents
What damages are available in a wrongful death claim?
There are several different types of personal injury damages in a wrongful death claim in California that differ from other claims. These amounts will differ by case.
The types of damages are separated into two categories: compensating the estate for losses associated with the death and personal losses associated with the death. Losses attributed to the estate would be:
• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical and hospital bills
• Lost income, including future income to be earned
Personal losses to the family members include:
• Household services provided by the deceased
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of love, affection, and guidance
How can a Sacramento wrongful death attorney help?
A death is difficult for family and friends no matter how it happens. In the case of an unexpected accident, it can be even harder to cope. While intentional wrongful acts may cause a death, many times they are experienced through fatal auto collisions. In these cases, having a personal injury lawyer on your side can be helpful. A wrongful death attorney will be able to hire investigators to look into the accident, review police reports, and build a case to seek financial compensation for the loss of the deceased.
We understand that there is nothing that can compensate for the loss of a loved one. What we can do, however, is help to obtain monetary justice for your loss from the negligent person. We are here to offer free and friendly advice and help you work through this difficult time.
We can be reached at (916) 619-5452 or online if that is easier. Our consultation and case evaluation is free of charge and only designed to help you determine your options. Please feel free to give us a call.
