Riverside Fatal Car Accident Lawyers
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Our Riverside Fatal Car Accident Lawyers Provide Clear Legal Guidance After A Loss
Losing a loved one in a car accident is an unimaginable tragedy, and moving forward can feel overwhelming. Our Riverside fatal car accident lawyers understand the weight of your loss and are here to provide legal support.
A wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to seek compensation for the financial and emotional losses related to the accident. If you want to know how we can support you during this difficult time, call us at (888) 488-1391. We offer free initial consultations.
Arash Law is committed to advocating for families who have suffered such a profound loss due to someone else’s negligence. We work to help prove liability and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Benefits Of Hiring Arash Law’s Riverside Fatal Car Accident Lawyers
The sudden loss of a loved one in a fatal car accident is a life-altering event that no family should have to endure. Beyond the emotional pain of losing a beloved father, mother, or child, families are often left grappling with unexpected financial burdens, such as funeral costs, medical bills, and loss of income, particularly if the victim was the breadwinner. At Arash Law, we recognize the profound impact this tragedy can have on every aspect of your life.
Our car accident lawyers are committed to standing by your side. We can assist you in pursuing compensation to address the impact of your loss and support your family’s needs. Here are some of the reasons to choose our attorneys:
- We believe everyone deserves access to legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay us lawyers’ fees unless you receive compensation. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you won’t owe us attorneys’ fees. Having said that, you may still shoulder other case-related costs, which will be charged separately. We will discuss this and any questions you may have during your initial consultation. With this, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal work, with no upfront costs or added financial stress.
- We provide personalized, client-focused legal services. Your story matters to us, and our skilled lawyers will take the time to understand every detail of your case.
- With extensive experience in handling personal injury cases, we are dedicated to providing thorough support and tailored legal advice to address your specific situation.
Our fatal car accident lawyers in Riverside are here for you during this challenging time. Contact us for a free initial consultation. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
How Our Car Accident Attorneys Can Help In A Fatal Crash
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” It’s not mandatory, but having a dedicated attorney can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate the legal process. Here’s how our fatal car accident lawyers in Riverside can help:
- Our attorneys will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident to determine what happened. We will gather evidence, review police reports, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to help establish liability.
- Fatal car accidents can involve multiple parties. Our lawyers work to identify the responsible parties and build your case.
- Dealing with insurance companies after a fatal car accident can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. Our attorneys will communicate directly with the insurers and handle negotiations.
- We work towards a fair settlement that reflects the true extent of your loss. Our lawyers are prepared to take your case to trial if the insurance company or responsible parties refuse to offer a fair settlement.
Typical Causes Of Fatal Car Accidents
Many fatal crashes result from negligent or reckless behavior. However, other factors can also contribute to a collision. Here are some of the typical causes of fatal auto accidents:
- Reckless Driving — Behaviors such as tailgating, unsafe lane changes, running red lights, or aggressive driving significantly increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Speeding — High-speed crashes generate extreme forces that can result in catastrophic injuries or death on impact.
- Distracted Driving — Even a momentary lapse in focus can cause deadly accidents, as distracted drivers may fail to see hazards or respond in time to prevent a collision.
- Drunk Driving — Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it difficult for drivers to stay in their lanes, obey traffic signals, or avoid obstacles.
- Driver Fatigue — A tired driver is more likely to make mistakes, be less aware, and have slower reactions, all of which increase the risk of an accident.
- Vehicular Defects — Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or faulty airbags can lead to catastrophic accidents. In some cases, these defects can exacerbate the severity of a crash, turning survivable collisions into fatal ones.
- Poor Road Conditions — Hazards like potholes, sharp curves, and inadequate signage create dangerous situations for drivers, especially at night or in bad weather.
- Adverse Weather Conditions — The presence of ice, snow, rain, or fog reduces traction and visibility on the road, increasing accident risk. In severe weather, multi-car pileups and rollovers become more likely.
Understanding these contributing factors is essential for determining liability and seeking accountability for your losses. Our Riverside fatal car accident attorneys can help you determine what factors caused the collision that led to your family member’s untimely passing.
How Our Lawyers Prove Negligence In A Fatal Car Accident
If a loved one was killed due to someone else’s careless or irresponsible actions, a family member may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. The victim’s family must establish the following elements of negligence:
- There is a duty of care owed to your loved one by the at-fault driver.
- The at-fault driver violated that obligation.
- The at-fault driver’s violation directly caused your loved one’s death.
- The death of your loved one led to damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Proving negligence is not always straightforward. The process requires thorough investigation, evidence collection, and expert analysis. Riverside fatal car accident lawyers can assess evidence, consult experts, and build a case grounded in fact.
Potentially Liable Parties For Fatal Car Accidents
Understanding who may be held accountable is essential to building a well-supported wrongful death claim. While many deadly car crashes are caused by the negligence of another driver, other parties may also bear responsibility. Here are some of them:
- Vehicle Manufacturers — Defective vehicle components, such as faulty brakes, airbags, or tires, can lead to fatal accidents. In these cases, the vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier may be held liable under product liability laws if the defect contributed to the crash.
- Government Entities — Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or dangerous roadway designs can create hazardous conditions for drivers. In such instances, the government entities responsible for road maintenance or design may be found liable for accidents caused by their negligence.
- Employers of Commercial Drivers — If the accident involved a commercial vehicle, such as a delivery van, the employer of the driver may be held accountable. Employers may be held liable if the driver was poorly trained, overworked, or operating under unsafe company policies that contributed to the crash.
- Rideshare Companies — In accidents involving rideshare drivers, companies like Uber or Lyft may share liability, particularly if the driver was actively using the app at the time of the crash.
- Other Third Parties — Sometimes, other parties may contribute to a fatal accident. Examples include construction companies that fail to implement proper safety measures in work zones or cargo loaders who improperly secure loads on commercial vehicles.
Our personal injury lawyers work to help establish fault by gathering evidence that helps paint a clear picture of what happened and who is responsible. Some of the key pieces of evidence our fatal car accident attorneys in Riverside can collect include:
- Videos and images of the accident scene and injuries.
- Statements from eyewitnesses.
- Testimonies from experts, like accident reconstructionists or medical specialists.
- Police report.
Compensation For A Fatal Car Accident
Money cannot undo the harm done to your loved one and your family, but it can help pay for the damages incurred due to the collision. These may include:
- Burial and funeral costs.
- Pre-death medical expenses.
- Pain and suffering.
- Mental health treatments.
- Loss of consortium.
- The deceased person’s loss of income.
With dedication and experience, our Riverside fatal car accident lawyers have helped victims pursue a legal claim against at-fault parties. Our personal injury lawyers in Riverside are committed to advocating for your rights, whether through negotiation or litigation.
Parties Eligible To File A Wrongful Death Case
In California, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by specific family members of the deceased, including the following:
- Surviving spouse
- Domestic partner
- Children
- Grandchildren
Additionally, the estate of the deceased may be able to file a claim called a survival action. This type of claim allows the estate to seek damages that the deceased person could have pursued if they had survived, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or property damage incurred between the time of injury and death.
It is important to note the distinction between a wrongful death claim and a survival action. A wrongful death claim is brought by the deceased’s surviving family members to compensate for their losses, such as loss of financial support, companionship, or guidance. In contrast, a survival action focuses on the damages suffered by the deceased person prior to their death, which are pursued by the estate on behalf of the deceased.
Only one wrongful death action can be filed per case. This means that all qualified beneficiaries must be included in a single lawsuit so that everyone eligible to a share of the compensation is represented.
Our experienced Riverside fatal car accident attorneys can help you navigate this complex process. We’ll assist you in identifying all eligible parties and addressing how the settlement or verdict should be divided among the beneficiaries.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Riverside Fatal Car Accident Claim
Typically, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits is two years from the date of the accident. If the vehicle involved was operated by a government agency, you have six months from the accident date to file a claim with the relevant agency.
It is important to consult with experienced attorneys promptly, as missing these time limits may affect your ability to pursue a claim. Physical evidence at the scene, surveillance footage, and even witness memories can fade or disappear over time. Furthermore, defense attorneys may use any delay in filing your claim as a way to question its validity or cast doubt on the seriousness of your case.
Fatal Car Accident Statistics
In 2022, 42,514 people died in motor vehicle crashes in the United States. The death rate is 12.8 deaths per 100,000 people and 1.33 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. According to provisional data from UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), there were 290 fatal crashes in Riverside County in 2023, leading to 315 fatalities. The county has seen an average of 293.8 fatal collisions every year for the past five years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that approximately 18,720 people lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic crashes in the first half of 2024. This figure reflects a 3.2% decrease from the 19,330 fatalities projected for the same period in 2023.
Additionally, preliminary data reported by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) show that vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in the first half of 2024 increased by about 13.1 billion miles, or about a 0.8-percent increase. In the first half of 2024, there were 1.17 fatalities per 100 million VMT, compared to 1.21 fatalities per 100 million VMT in the first half of 2023.
Our team of experienced professionals understands the emotional and physical consequences of car crashes and wrongful deaths. Our fatal car accident lawyers in Riverside are here to assist you in seeking fair compensation for your loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Have To Report The Accident To Law Enforcement?
California law requires those involved to report certain types of car accidents to law enforcement. Specifically, any accident that results in injuries or fatalities must be reported. If the damage exceeds $1,000, you must file a report with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days.
Do You Need To Go To Court If You File A Claim?
In California, most auto accident claims, including those involving fatal car accidents, are resolved through settlements before ever reaching a courtroom. However, there are instances where a trial may be necessary. For example, disputes may arise over liability, or the insurance company may fail to offer a fair settlement. The decision to take your case to court depends on the unique circumstances of your claim.
Consulting with Riverside fatal car accident attorneys can help you determine whether litigation is likely in your case. A lawyer can evaluate the strength of your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and advise you on whether going to court is the right course of action.
What Is The Difference Between A Wrongful Death Action And A Survival Action In California?
In California, wrongful death actions and survival actions are two distinct types of claims that can arise when a person dies due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing.
- A wrongful death claim is filed by surviving family members (e.g., spouse, children, or domestic partner) to seek compensation for their losses resulting from the decedent’s death. Damages may include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.
- A survival action is filed by the decedent’s estate to recover damages for losses incurred between the wrongful act and the decedent’s death. These damages are tied to the decedent’s suffering and financial losses rather than the family’s. Common damages in survival actions include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage directly related to the incident. Unlike wrongful death actions, punitive damages may be recoverable in a survival action if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious.
Navigating the complexities of these claims can be challenging, which is why working with experienced attorneys is essential. Our team of Riverside fatal car accident lawyers can help you understand your rights, file the appropriate actions, and pursue fair compensation according to the law. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case assessment.
How Long Will My Riverside Fatal Car Accident Case Take?
The timeline for resolving a fatal car accident case in Riverside varies significantly depending on the unique details and complexity of each case. Several factors can influence how long it takes to settle or resolve your claim. For instance, cases involving multiple parties tend to take longer due to the complexity of determining liability. If there is uncertainty or disagreement about who caused the accident, additional investigation and negotiation may be required, potentially extending the duration of your case.
While our Riverside fatal car accident attorneys cannot guarantee a specific timeline, we can provide an estimate after evaluating the details of your situation. We aim to handle your case efficiently and help you seek a fair settlement that reflects your actual damages.
How Much Do Fatal Car Accident Lawyers Near Me Charge On Average?
Most fatal accident lawyers in Riverside work on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, you don’t pay lawyers’ fees up front. There are no out-of-pocket costs unless your attorney successfully recovers compensation for you. If your case is unsuccessful, you don’t owe us attorneys’ fees.
The contingency fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award and may vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s level of experience. During your case assessment, our Riverside fatal accident lawyers will discuss these fees and other case-related costs that will be charged separately, so you know what to expect before hiring us.
What Is The Average Settlement For A Car Accident?
Several factors will determine the value of your claim, such as:
- The extent of your injuries.
- Prior medical expenses.
- Future medical expenses.
- Your physical and emotional suffering.
- The extent of your property’s damage.
- Shared responsibility for the accident.
- The total amount of lost wages.
- Loss of future earning potential.
The quality of legal representation can also influence the amount of your settlement. Our Riverside fatal car accident lawyers are experienced in building well-supported cases, negotiating with insurance companies, and working to achieve fair outcomes for our clients. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to schedule a free initial consultation.
Consult With Our Fatal Car Accident Lawyers In Riverside
Losing a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience, and navigating the legal process afterward can feel overwhelming. Our compassionate and skilled fatal car accident lawyers in Riverside can handle the complexities of your claim, pursuing justice on your behalf so your family can focus on grieving and healing.
If you’re asking, “How do I find the right accident law firm near me?” consider Arash Law. Our team is committed to offering compassionate and personalized legal services to injured victims, their families, and those who have tragically lost loved ones. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our contact form for a free case evaluation.
Our lawyers handle various types of personal injury claims, including accidents involving rideshare vehicles like Uber or Lyft, truck collisions, slip-and-falls, motorcycle crashes, and hit-and-run cases. We also work on claims involving dog bites and others. We provide legal services throughout Riverside County, including Rubidoux, Pedley, Glen Avon, Mira Loma, Moreno Valley, Norco, and Corona.
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