Ontario, California Wrongful Death Case
It is never easy to lose someone that you care about, but if you have lost someone due to the negligence or misconduct of another person, the situation can become compounded. You are probably feeling overwhelmed with emotion and confusion. With mixed emotions, phone calls to make to relatives, and funeral planning, the last thing on your mind is receiving compensation.
As experienced wrongful death attorneys we understand that you need time to grieve and cope with this devastating loss. However, please understand that time is of the essence. Per California law, there is limited time (sometimes very short) to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The statute of limitations, what types of damages are available, and the options for recovery are all case specific. The investigation into the death and the claim for wrongful death lawsuits should begin without delay. We recommend: heal with your family, and let us take care of the rest.
45+ Years Serving the Inland Empire and $500 Million+ Recovered. Wrongful death victims should call Heiting & Irwin at (951) 682-6400 or complete a contact form as soon as possible as there are strict time limits in which to recover for your damages.
Ontario, California
Ontario, California, may be Southern California’s best-kept secret. Ontario offers both suburban lifestyle and easy access to one of the world’s greatest cities, Los Angeles. With its relative proximity to beaches, international airport, great climate, and close access to world-class education, shopping, entertainment, restaurants, unlimited recreational activity, and everything else that L.A. offers, Ontario residents have every reason to be proud to call it home.
Ontario offers residents an enjoyment of life in Southern California that invites families to establish roots and continue to grow. According to the City of Ontario government website, Ontario’s reputation has built the “economic heart of the region.” Within this economic development, the city has made a commitment to continue “invest(ing) in the growth and evolution of the area’s economy while providing a balance of jobs, housing, and educational and recreational opportunities for our residents in a safe, well-maintained community.”
The “Ontario Plan” has mapped out a vision of where the city’s future lies. Its essence is “improving the quality of life” for Ontario residents and the quality of life throughout the region. Improving each resident’s quality of life remains the priority for city government leaders and for families seeking ways to improve their children’s future. Quality of life includes everything from education, to employment, to safe streets. To the end that the city can provide infrastructure, individuals still have the responsibility to follow the city and state laws. The sense of well-being and prosperity is achievable when private individuals and public entities work together.
The triumphs of Ontario’s access to prosperity, vision to build a vibrant future, and strength of its community serve as inspirations. We salute Ontario and applaud its efforts and successes.
Amidst all of the improvements lies a simple but obvious reality that faces families in Ontario and every city in the Inland Empire. Tragedies that involve negligence, catastrophic injuries, and death impact the city’s citizens and their well-being. To that end, building a better Ontario demands accountability for its residents.
What is a wrongful death lawsuit?
A wrongful death action exists when a person dies as a result of the legal fault of another person. Generally, the surviving members of the victim’s family may bring a lawsuit against the person whose actions took their loved one. Wrongful death claims are governed by California laws including Code of Civil Procedure §377.60.
What types of events can give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit?
Some circumstances that can give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit:
- Product defects
- Medical Malpractice
- Construction accidents
- Work injuries
- Car accidents
- Bike accidents
- Truck accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Intentional homicide, manslaughter, and
- Other types of negligent or intentional misconduct
Who can bring a wrongful death lawsuit?
The first in line to bring a wrongful death claim are usually the decedent’s surviving spouse and children. If these claimants do not exist, parents, siblings, or other individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased at the time of his or her death may bring an action. It is important to consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
How much money is a wrongful death claim “worth”?
There is no amount of money that can truly compensate a person or a family for such a devastating loss; but it’s important to understand the help that is available. Each claim is dependent on the particular circumstances of each case. Damages awarded in a wrongful death case may include reimbursement for funeral and burial expenses, loss of anticipated financial support, loss of the value of household services, and loss of love, companionship, attention, affection, moral support, and guidance. Claims may also be made for medical expense, losses to the estate, and pre-death damages under appropriate circumstances.
Conclusion
If you’ve lost a loved-one due to another person’s negligence or misconduct, do not hesitate to contact our experienced attorneys. The attorneys at Heiting & Irwin, have been working since 1976, successfully fighting for people and the justice that they deserve. Call our offices today for a free, initial consultation.
Photo Credit: Beverly Hills Car Accident by Graham, on Flickr cc
