Ontario Wrongful Death Attorney
Losing a loved one is a devastating occurrence, and when it happens because of another’s negligence, the trauma can be overwhelming. At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP, our Ontario, California wrongful death lawyers represent families who are seeking civil justice by holding the liable person or party responsible for their role in the death of their loved one.
Our San Bernardino County and Ontario wrongful death attorneys understand how difficult your loss can be, which allows us to take the lead in building an effective case that reflects each of our client’s unique needs while allowing you the time you need to grieve.
How Can A Traffic Accident Translate To A Wrongful Death Case?
Car accidents, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents can result in wrongful death cases when the person who caused the collision was negligent in the operation of a vehicle.
This can include accidents caused by:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving, including texting while driving
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Driver exhaustion
Other causes of wrongful death can include, but are not limited to:
- Vehicle manufacturer defects, including tires, airbags, and transmission or ignition components
- Premises liability cases, including slip and fall accidents, dog bites and attacks, and lack of security
- Medical malpractice
- Elderly care and neglect
- Product malfunctions and liability
If you lost a loved one and believe the cause of their death was due to another’s negligent actions or inactions, our Ontario wrongful death attorneys will help you determine the legal action available for your case.
What If There Are No Criminal Charges Filed Against The Driver Who Caused The Accident?
A wrongful death claim is a civil suit that is designed to pursue monetary damages for the surviving family member(s) who lost their loved one because of another’s negligence. A civil suit is very different from a criminal suit, where charges are brought by a prosecutor or district attorney and typically result in punishment, such as a fine or imprisonment. Because a wrongful death claim is a civil action and not a criminal case, the burden of proof is lower than it would be for a manslaughter or murder case.
Legally, wrongful death is considered as a type of personal injury, where the responsible party is held liable in a civil court. At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP, our wrongful death lawyers in Ontario, California will guide you and your family through the legal process that is required to pursue the monetary damages associated with your loss, so you can take the time you need to heal without financial worry.
How Do I Know If I Can File A Wrongful Death Claim In Ontario, California?
The California Legislator outlined the laws associated with wrongful death, which includes the rights of family members who can pursue a claim against the negligent person or party who caused their loved one’s untimely death.
In order, family members who can pursue a wrongful death claim include the spouse, domestic partner, or children of the deceased. If these relationships do not exist, the parents of the deceased may file a wrongful death claim, and if they are no longer living, the siblings may file a wrongful death claim.
How Do You Place A Financial Recovery Figure On The Death Of My Loved One?
At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP our compassionate wrongful death attorneys in Ontario, California know that no amount of money is going to bring your loved one back. And that the thought of pursuing a financial recovery may seem daunting while you are dealing with the emotional fallout of their death. We completely understand.
The fallout of losing your loved one’s financial contribution may not be evident immediately after his or her death, but the hardships can include:
- The loss of the deceased’s current and future earnings
- Expenses incurred by survivors for medical costs
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship, affection, and moral support
- Loss of benefits, including insurance and retirement
- Value of household services
How Long Do I Have To File A Wrongful Death Suit In Ontario, California?
The California Civil Code states that wrongful death claims must be filed within two years after the date of the decedent’s death. If you have suffered the loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, it is important that you speak with an attorney about your case as soon as you are ready to go over the details. Our Ontario, California wrongful death lawyers know how hard this can be, and will do everything possible to ensure your case is handled with care, so you can focus on healing while we develop the details of your claim.
Our Ontario, California personal injury practice areas include :
Contact Our Experienced Ontario Wrongful Death Attorneys Today For A Free Consultation
If you have lost a loved one in an accident and believe the circumstances were caused by the negligence of another, contact our experienced wrongful death attorneys in Ontario, California today at (909) 456-1400 to discuss your case, and learn how we can help you hold the responsible person or party liable for your loss.