A “wrongful death” is a death caused by the carelessness (negligence) or misconduct of another person or organization — including failure to act to avert a death.
A wrongful death could be caused by a car wreck; a workplace accident; a defective toy or other consumer product; or medical malpractice, among other causes.
Like all of our states, California has passed laws defining a wrongful death and allowing the survivors to seek compensation for their loved one’s death from the people or organizations whose carelessness contributed to the death.
The law on wrongful death is complex and the time you have to file a claim may be limited, which is why it’s essential to seek out the experienced advice from Attorney Peter Goldstein as soon as possible.